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A Scoop on Business Success

July 15, 2025

From Retirement to Retail Triumph

Alan Mandel and Judy Moldovan, once retirees in Pensacola, transformed their golden years into an entrepreneurial success story with AJ's Market & Ice Cream at Southtowne. What started as a desire to preserve the "Mom and Pop Shop" spirit quickly became a beloved community staple, earning them a national award. Their triumph stems from smart planning—saving two years of operating expenses—and invaluable guidance from the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at the University of West Florida.

Beyond just business, AJ's Market champions local brands and gives back to the community, a philosophy that earned them the Outstanding Independent Award from the C-Store Industry. This unique spot combines convenience with gourmet offerings and a welcoming atmosphere, proving that passion and community focus can lead to extraordinary achievements, even without prior industry experience. Read more about their success story here.

Join us for an engaging and practical workshop on Thursday, July 24, from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., where you’ll discover how to turn your enthusiasm into a successful home-based childcare business. This session will cover everything you need to get started, including licensing requirements, safety best practices, effective marketing strategies, and tips for confidently managing your new venture. Whether you’re an experienced caregiver or just beginning to explore this rewarding path, our workshop will equip you with the skills and assurance to create a safe, welcoming environment that families can trust. Reserve your spot today and take the first step toward launching your own childcare business!

Have a business idea but need guidance? This comprehensive 3-hour workshop helps you assess market need, profitability, and readiness. On Tuesday, July 22, from 9 a.m. until noon, John Emsing will cover everything from licensing, marketing, and taxation. Plus, get no-cost, personalized access to a Florida SBDC Business Consultant after the workshop to help you build your business plan and achieve your goals. Turn your vision into a viable venture!

Join our essential workshop on Friday, August 8, at 9 a.m. to unlock diverse funding options for your business. Understanding these avenues is crucial for growth, innovation, and navigating economic shifts. Learn how to secure the capital you need to thrive, ensuring your business's long-term success and stability. Invest in your future – attend this vital session!

Unlock the secrets to successful business growth by understanding all your funding options. This workshop is vital for any entrepreneur, offering clarity on capital acquisition, strategic investment, and financial stability. Don't miss this chance on Tuesday, August 12, at 9 a.m. to empower your business with the knowledge it needs to thrive and expand.

Don't miss this webinar, a must-attend for any entrepreneur seeking funding. Led by Bill Burnham, a senior business consultant with the Florida SBDC at USF and a Certified LivePlan Expert Advisor, this online session on Thursday, July 24, at 9 a.m. Central will debunk common misconceptions and provide practical guidance on navigating the grant landscape.

Don't miss this chance to transform your financial well-being by watching "7 Habits of Financially Successful People," a presentation by Ava Elkins of Raymond James & Associates. This session on Tuesday, July 29, at 11 a.m. Central offers actionable steps on investing for retirement, navigating previous employer retirement accounts, personal finance for business owners, creating money buckets, and utilizing resources to your advantage.

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2025 Small Business Success Summit – Early Bird Rate Ends THIS WEEK!

Register now for the Florida SBDC Network’s 2025 Small Business Success Summit. Join us on August 18-19, 2025 at the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay, to gain tangible resources, make meaningful connections, and discover how your business can create opportunity and drive change. Take advantage of the discounted Early Bird rate, available until this Friday, July 18!

Learn more and register now at: floridasbdc.org/success_summit

Florida SBDC Network Celebrates Significant 2024 Economic Impact

The Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network announced a highly successful 2024,significantly boosting the state's economy. Providing over 107,000 hours of no-cost consulting to more than 15,000 clients, the SBDC helped Florida's small businesses secure $304 million in capital, win $732 million in government contracts, create 1,019 new businesses, impact 19,800 jobs, and generate $3.8 billion in increased sales. These impressive results underscore the SBDC Network's vital role in fostering entrepreneurship and driving economic growth across Florida.