Owning a small business isn't a job. It's a calling. Wherever you are on your entrepreneurial journey, the Michigan Small Business Development Center (Michigan SBDC) is here to help. Our July Newsletter features:
Mrs. Pruitt’s Gourmet CHA CHA is not a rhythmic ballroom dance—it’s a mouth-watering relish condiment sauce developed by the Pruitt family in the backwoods of South Carolina in the 1830s. CHA CHA means “no food ever wasted”— because it is made from select vegetables, herbs and seasonings perfected in the canning process. Grandma Pruitt handed her secret recipe down to her daughter-in-law Linda Kay, and made her family promise to tell the whole world about CHA CHA.
“What started out as small batches in our home kitchen has grown into a sizable business. We now prepare, package and label our products at Feast Detroit,” said Linda Kay. When she wanted to expand into international markets, she connected with Michigan SBDC Business Growth Consultant Julie Oldham for assistance.
With the guidance of the Michigan SBDC export tools and ecosystem partners, Linda Kay has not only preserved her family’s legacy but has expanded the business to new heights. As the CHA CHA brand continues to grow, one thing remains constant: the delicious taste and rich history behind every bottle.
Should I include cybersecurity in my business plan?
A strong cybersecurity strategy is equally as important as your marketing or financials, and isn’t just an IT issue—it’s a fundamental component of risk management, brand protection and financial stability.
Starting a small business is an exciting adventure, full of dreams and possibilities. But amidst the enthusiasm, it’s easy to overlook the crucial details that can make or break your venture.
With 95% of the world’s population living outside of the U.S., selling goods and services overseas can help your business increase sales and achieve long term stability. Without the right connections or a proper export business development plan, it can be difficult to tap into international markets—we are here to help. Our Export Services include:
Early Export Assistance
Determine if your business is ready to expand your market reach, grow your customer base and sell more of your product or service.
Export Financial Planning
We’ll conduct a financial assessment to ensure your operations are running strong.
International SEO Reports
ISEO Reports help you understand and improve where your business ranks on Google and other search engines throughout the world.
Export Business Planning
We can help you successfully expand your business plan to include exporting to international markets.
Landed Cost Estimates
We can provide landed cost estimates to help you understand the total expense associated with shipping your products internationally.
Network and Resources
Connect with our network of export-certified consultants and resources.
Learn about the importance of a bookkeeping system as we review real small business examples of Cash Flow Statements, Profit & Loss and Balance Sheets. You'll leave with templates, spreadsheets and actionable items to move you forward with managing finances!
This webinar will cover the definitions of employees and independent contractors, financial planning and projections for hiring, interview strategies and employee reporting requirements.
Join us as we guide you through researching and writing each piece of a successful business plan. This webinar is designed for entrepreneurs who are looking to write a business plan for the first time, or already have a plan they would like to improve.
Funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA.
