UC Merced SBDCServing Merced and Mariposa Counties
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"After attending the Small Business Start-Up Workshop with Valley Sierra SBDC in March 2019, I felt energized about launching my hobby into a legitimate home-based business. Everyone at Valley Sierra SBDC was so encouraging, especially Peni Hogwood. I immediately realized I needed a bigger online presence, so I signed up for a social media workshop. I instantly connected with the instructor, Rhonda Lowe. You could tell she knew her stuff and was eager to help us. Soon after attending her workshop, I requested to work with her as my business coach. I would meet with her every 1-2 weeks and she would guide me through the steps needed to grow my business. Thank you, Rhonda and Valley Sierra SBDC for your guidance and support. Thanks to you the future of my business is bright. - Maggie Naughton, Owner
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Chic Furnishings by Maggie, Modesto, CA

Chic Furnishings started with Valley Sierra SBDC in March
2019 through the Small Business Start-Up Workshop. Maggie
felt ready to take her hobby to the next step. She realized she
needed a bigger presence so she signed up for a social media
workshop with consultant Rhonda Lowe. Following the
workshop, Maggie signed up as a client and worked with a
business advisor, Rhonda for one on one coaching. Maggie
and Rhonda started at the very beginning with creating a
Business Plan, a Vision Board, and Marketing Plan. Maggie
put in the time and hard work to continue the growth of her
business. The EIDL funds helped get her through the slow
times of COVID-19. Recently, Maggie merged her company
with the construction company of her life partner and together
they are meeting the needs of a wider audience and
growing both businesses.

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Funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration and a Grant with the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development. All opinions, conclusions, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA or the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Contact the California SBDC closest to you.