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Marta Alonzo had a big dream. She wanted to open her very own coffee shop called Sip & Sit with ME. But dreams need support to come true, and Marta found hers with the UTSA SBDC, particularly Crystal Darby, Senior Business Advisor. With Crystal’s support, Marta’s dream became a reality. Crystal guided her beginning in 2021, connecting her with all the right people like engineers and sign companies. Crystal kept Marta informed about each step of the business startup process, ensuring she had the latest information for success.Marta and her husband, Edward Alonzo, both San Antonio natives deeply connected to the community, embarked on the journey of bringing Marta’s dream to life — a quaint coffee house named Sip & Sit with ME. With three adult children and three grandchildren, family is at the core of their endeavors. Marta manages the day-to-day operations of the coffee house, while Ed balances a full-time job.Thanks to Crystal and the UTSA SBDC, Marta’s coffee shop didn’t just open its doors — it created jobs too. Now, there’s one full-time and one part-time job, all because Marta dared to dream big and had the guidance of Crystal and the UTSA SBDC team. Sip & Sit with ME isn’t just a business; it’s a family-owned establishment nestled on the World Heritage Trail, opposite the iconic Mission San Jose Church within the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. Located at 3244 Mission Rd, San Antonio, TX 78214, it serves as a cozy retreat for locals and tourists alike.“Crystal Darby has been essential in keeping me in the loop of all business startup, constantly keeping me abreast of new information that pertains to my success,” Marta says. “Super resourceful. The resources provided to me were immensely helpful and the site visits that were made, made me feel valued as a client.”Marta’s journey wasn’t always smooth. She faced setbacks, like being turned down for a location without even a glance at her plans or finances. But she didn’t give up. She kept pushing forward, fueled by her dream. For Marta, the inspiration behind Sip & Sit with ME is deeply personal. Growing up in a farm laborer household, coffee wasn’t just a beverage — it was a symbol of warmth, hospitality, and connection. Around the kitchen table, coffee fueled conversations, decision-making, and family gatherings. The kitchen was the heart of their home, where guests were welcomed with open arms and offered a comforting cup of coffee. For Marta, coffee meant more than just a drink; it meant making people feel at home, inviting them to sit down and share in the warmth of community.But turning this dream into reality required extensive preparation. Marta embarked on a journey of self-discovery, seeking knowledge and guidance. She attended Texas Coffee School to gain a comprehensive understanding of the coffee industry, traveled to Bogota, Colombia to immerse herself in different coffee cultures and enrolled in mentoring programs. The support from her husband, family, friends, mentors, and the broader small business community was invaluable. The guidance of Crystal Darby and the UTSA SBDC helped propelled Marta towards success. Crystal’s expertise and unwavering support provided Marta with the knowledge and confidence needed to navigate the complexities of starting a business.After years of searching for the perfect location, Marta finally found it — a decades-old building with immense potential. Following extensive renovations, Sip & Sit with ME opened its doors on November 25th, 2023, welcoming the vibrant community of the Southside and San Antonio at large.Now, Marta and Edward are excited to serve their community with warmth and hospitality, just as they experienced growing up. Sip & Sit with ME isn’t just a coffee house; it’s a testament to the Alonzo family’s dedication to their roots and their passion for creating a welcoming space for all. They are eager to continue their small business journey, inviting everyone to sit down, relax, and make themselves at home over a cup of coffee.Are you dreaming of starting your own business like Marta did? Reach out for support today. Call us at 210-458-2460 or CLICK HERE to schedule a no-cost advising session and start your own journey to small business success.Photo credit: Jaclyn Tarango -
In Helotes, Texas, The Meadows Original Frozen Custard has become a favorite family-owned dessert spot. Founded by John and Venessa Kodosky, along with their children and Venessa’s mother, this small business shines in their local community and exemplifies the power of small business success. John and Venessa, who both juggle full-time jobs at UT Health, praise the UTSA SBDC for being a guiding light in their journey.UTSA Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Senior Business Advisor Crystal Darby, provided support in refining their business plan.“The UTSA SBDC provided a significant amount of support and advice resulting in the successful implementation of our business plan,” John Kodosky, Co-Owner, The Meadows, says.This attention to detail was a cornerstone of their successful journey. A well-structured business plan not only supported them in being well-prepared for their grand opening but also helped them to secure essential funding. With their business plan as the foundation, The Meadows was able to secure additional funding to address construction overages and delays, ensuring that their dream project remained on course.Another pivotal piece of advice that The Meadows received from the UTSA SBDC was refining their pricing strategy. This wise counsel not only gave them confidence in their ability to raise prices but also bolstered their profitability. With their pricing strategy solidified, The Meadows found themselves on the path to financial success.“The most valuable advice received was our pricing strategy giving us evidence and proof we had the ability to increase our prices,” John Kodosky, says.Through UTSA SBDC support, The Meadows stands as an example of how, with determination, a strong business plan, and expert guidance, small businesses can succeed.If you’re an entrepreneur or small business owner seeking success, like The Meadows, reach out to the UTSA SBDC. With our support in business planning, pricing strategies, access to vital resources like IBISWorld Reports, and more we can support turning your aspirations into achievements.Start your success story today and let the UTSA SBDC be a trusted support on your path to success. Give us a call: 210-458-2460 or online: https://utsa.ecenterdirect.com/signup.Photo provided by: John and Venessa Kodosky, The Meadows Original Frozen Custard Helotes -
In recognition of the 40th Minority Enterprise Development (MED) Week, we applaud Mr. Carlton Fairley, the recipient of the Minority Health Care Firm award, for his outstanding achievements in the field of mental health services.
The Journey of Myndfit Mental Health
Milestones and Impact
Since its establishment in 2021, Myndfit Mental Health, under Mr. Fairley’s leadership, has achieved significant milestones, leading to a decrease in mental health crises and major incidents.
Leadership and Vision
As CEO of Myndfit Mental Health, Mr. Fairley’s responsibilities include strategic leadership, fostering key partnerships, financial oversight, and the management of a dedicated team of professionals.
Specialized Programs
Notably, Mr. Fairley has developed specialized mental health programs addressing the needs of children facing aggression, emotional disturbances, and trauma, all while maintaining high standards of care.
Efficient Resource Allocation and Growth
Efficient resource allocation, strategic marketing, and outreach initiatives have expanded Myndfit Mental Health’s services to new clients and partners, while mitigating potential risks.
Beyond the Business
Advocacy and Expertise
Beyond his professional endeavors, Mr. Fairley remains committed to staying informed about the latest trends in the mental health field, advocating for mental health awareness, and supporting relevant policies.
Educational Journey and Commitment
Mr. Fairley’s academic journey, including a Bachelor’s degree in Science with a unique fusion of Theater and Child Psychology, and further complemented by a Masters in Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology, showcases his diverse expertise. Currently pursuing his PhD, his commitment to mental health began with a passion for helping young men manage aggression and develop healthy coping strategies.
Balancing Act
In his personal life, Mr. Fairley’s interests include boxing, working with children, daily reading, and exploring the world with his wife. His dedication to both his professional and personal spheres shines.
A Transformative Connection
UTSA SBDC’s Support
In Mr. Fairley’s own words: “The UTSA SBDC (Small Business Development Center) has been a game-changer for our company. Starting as a DBA in 2020, it was just my partner and me, working tirelessly but struggling to connect with the community, secure contracts, and gain certifications. Bad advice nearly led to our dissolution. In March 2023, we met Mr. Sam Morgan (Senior Business Advisor), our mentor, who introduced us to a network of helpful mentors, and whose work ethic matched ours. Their guidance enabled us to secure micro contracts, build strong community relationships, gain certifications, and hire 17 additional contractors. We’re growing and building a reputation for handling the most complex cases, thanks to SBDC’s swift and crucial support.”
Looking Ahead
A Celebration of Dedication
Mr. Fairley’s journey exemplifies dedication, resilience, and the power of strategic support. We celebrate his achievements and look forward to the continued success of Myndfit Mental Health, LLC.
An Invitation to Your Own Success
The UTSA SBDC proudly supports visionary entrepreneurs like Mr. Fairley. We invite you to embark on your own path to small business success. Schedule a no-cost advising appointment today by calling: 210-458-2460 or: https://utsa.ecenterdirect.com/signup
Photo above provided by: Carlton Fairley – Myndfit Mental Health
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Meet Carlissa Montoya, the determined owner of Encore Garage San Antonio, a woman-owned small business specializing in transforming cluttered garages into functional and attractive spaces – recently even venturing into the world of garage floor coatings.
The journey began in March 2020 when Carlissa’s husband, Joe, a former private investigator, ventured into the world of garage renovations. With a passion for creating organized and stylish spaces, Carlissa joined forces with her husband to make garage dreams come true.The road to success was not without its challenges. As the economy shifted, Encore Garage San Antonio faced a slowdown, prompting Carlissa to seek guidance. This is where the UTSA Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and their Senior Business Advisor, Crystal Darby, stepped in to provide support.Crystal and the UTSA SBDC team have collaborated closely with Carlissa, offering strategic planning, connecting her with professional referrals, and assisting with human resources – crucial elements for a thriving small business.Thanks to the guidance and resources provided by the UTSA SBDC, Encore Garage San Antonio has flourished. The impact is profound – an expansion that exceeded expectations, increased owner investment, the retention of valuable jobs, and a remarkable boost in sales. The power of collaboration and expertise brought about a transformation that not only secured the business’s future but also contributed to the local economy.Encore Garage San Antonio’s story is an inspiring testament to the potential that lies within all small businesses and the positive impact of seeking support. The UTSA SBDC is a lifeline for entrepreneurs, offering a range of benefits to help turn aspirations into reality:- Personalized and confidential business advising, at no-cost
- Diverse workshops designed for small businesses and entrepreneurs – over 200 annually, covering a wide range of topics
- Access to a vast professional referral network
- Resources for research and growth
- Lifelong business partnerships and connections within your local community
Ready to embark on your own journey towards small business success? The UTSA SBDC is here to guide you every step of the way.Reach out for a no-cost, one-on-one advising appointment by visiting: https://utsa.ecenterdirect.com/signup or call: 210-458-2460.Don’t miss out on the upcoming learning opportunities – explore them at: https://utsa.ecenterdirect.com/events or call: 210-458-2047 for more information.Join the ranks of thriving businesses like Encore Garage San Antonio and let the UTSA SBDC be your Join the ranks of thriving businesses like Encore Garage San Antonio and let the UTSA SBDC be your support in achieving your own entrepreneurial dreams. Your success story is just around the corner!Photo above provided by: Carlissa Montoya -
In the lively city of San Antonio lies a small business success story that embodies resilience, determination, and the transformative power of support.Meet Stephan Collins, the visionary owner of Elevation Barber College, a place that not only provides top-notch barber training but also represents a triumph over adversity.Stephan’s journey to success began when he decided to turn his life around after serving three prison terms totaling ten years. Emerging from his past, he sought redemption and chose a new path— barber college. However, launching his own small business was an intimidating prospect, and that’s when he discovered the unwavering support of the UTSA Small Business Development Center (SBDC).In 2019, Stephan took steps towards greatness by attending UTSA SBDC workshops. Impressed by the resources and expertise offered, he sought the guidance of Crystal Darby, a Senior Business Advisor at the UTSA SBDC, who came highly recommended by existing clients. Stephan’s journey took a transformative turn.Crystal provided Stephan with essential tools to pave his way to success. She provided support with developing his business plan, helped with financial projections and funding strategies, and even facilitated access to invaluable SBDCNet research. Beyond that, she supported Stephan with marketing ideas and strategic planning, ensuring that Elevation Barber College would stand out in a competitive market.But the journey didn’t end there. The unexpected challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic presented a unique hurdle for Stephan’s budding business. However, with Crystal’s steadfast dedication and the UTSA SBDC’s consistent guidance, Stephan secured COVID funding – the PPP and EIDL advance. This timely assistance played a vital role in sustaining Elevation Barber College, enabling Stephan to continue providing quality training to aspiring barbers.Stephan’s success and the positive impact of the UTSA SBDC’s support is best captured by his own words:“I am thankful for Crystal Darby and the work she has done for us over the years in advising me on what direction to go in,” Stephan says. “We met, and she was very informative on how to operate in business, connecting me to the people who could be a positive platform for me in my endeavors.”In the remarkable journey of Stephan Collins, we witness the powerful impact that the UTSA SBDC can have on small businesses. We take pride in fostering an inclusive environment where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.Now, it’s your time to embrace opportunity and unleash your own success story. CLICK HERE or give us a call: 210-458-2460 to schedule your no-cost UTSA SBDC advising appointment, tailored uniquely to your aspirations and dreams. Your success awaits and we’re here to uplift you every step of the way.Let’s embark on this transformative journey. Together, we’ll elevate your small business to new heights.Photo above provided by: Stephan Collins
