"We had no idea of this valuable resource [SBDC] until getting into this business adventure!"
Frank and Marcey Williams
TOLEDO, Wash.—Cyndi Philbrook has been self-employed for most of the past 30 years, relying on her resourcefulness, growth mindset and grit to navigate successful careers in construction, finance and insurance. She had been the owner of Philbrook Insurance in the tiny town of Toledo, Wash., for more than a decade before she reached out to … Read more
WENATCHEE, Wash.–Legacy media has incredible barriers to entry; new media, not so much. Just ask Rafael Aguilar, owner of La Pera Radio and TV, based in Wenatchee. The challenge is how to create a sustainable business. La Pera Radio and TV broadcasts live online through the La Pera app from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. … Read more
ANACORTES, Wash.—When Alex LaLonde moved to Anacortes about six years ago to work as a kayak guide and instructor, about the only unchecked box on his adopted hometown wish list was somewhere to buy a fresh, delicious bagel. In January 2023, Alex and his brother, Nick, were able to check that box when they opened … Read more
GOLDENDALE, Wash.–Shannon and Phil D’Avanzo knew they wanted to relocate from Troutdale, Oregon, to the small town of Goldendale in rural Washington state to be closer to family, but what would they do for work? Shannon had worked in corporate retail for 16 years and Phil’s experience was in gym management and auto detailing, so….what … Read more
BELLINGHAM, Wash.— In Jeff Shaw’s previous work, he was fighting to save the planet. Now, as owner of Bellingham BJJ, a training academy for Brazilian jiu-jitsu, he’s helping students learn to fight for their own improved physical and mental health. “It’s definitely as rewarding [as my previous work was],” said Shaw, a former deputy director … Read more
AUBURN, Wash.—After another conversation with her husband about problems at his work, Mari Borrero told him, “Look, you have a choice. If you don’t like the way things are going, do something different.” So he did, and she did, too. Today, Mari Borrero and her husband Aaron Borrero are co-owners of American Abatement and Demo, … Read more
"Lorena was honest about her concerns, but not discouraging in anyway"
Christina Sodemann-Perkins and Dale Perkins
Sensory Tool House, a retail store that provides space to explore sensory supportive equipment and tools, has been named the Washington Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Star Client for 2023.
MAPLE VALLEY, Wash. – A roof leak necessitates immediate action so the building isn’t damaged nor its integrity threatened. It therefore seems fitting that Michael Dechand, a man of action and initiative, wasted little time opening his own roofing company when opportunities for growth with his former employer hindered his aspirations. “There was no ladder … Read more
SPOKANE, Wash.—Single Handed Consulting, a disability management service that helps injured workers get back to work, has been named the Washington Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Star Client of the Year. Owned by siblings Katie Leneker-Hynes and Kevin Leneker, the business employs nearly 40 vocational rehabilitation counselors across the state. Kevin Leneker accepted the award … Read more
