Success stories

Success stories

  • A business owner sits on a couch

    Changing the Smoothie Industry

    The proverb “Necessity is the mother of invention” was true for Isaac Hamlin. As an athlete at the University of Kentucky in 2018, Isaac searched for an alternative to the heavy, calorie-laden options...

  • Sweet potato pie company owner mixing ingredients in the kitchen

    Pies with a Purpose

    Many entrepreneurs have a business idea and then launch a small business. But what if you have a passion for a cause and want to find a way to fund that passion? Dawn Urrutia had that dilemma. In 2016...

  • Home building and remodeling business owner

    Building a Great Reputation While Building a Business-2024

    Situation   Perhaps no industry was more devastated from the effects of the Great Recession from 2008 – 2012 than the home building and remodeling business. So, what did Desmond Conley decide to do...

  • INgrid Design employees standing outside for company photo

    New Ownership and Same Strong Company Culture

    Situation Growing up in Puerto Rico, Ingrid Hernández uncovered her artist talent at a young age. After graduating from the Rhode Island School of Design, she worked as a graphic designer for several...

  • Steven Dunn

    Building a Solid Foundation with SBA Resources

    Dunn Electric, LLC specializes in commercial, industrial and residential electrical installation and service, including data, fire alarm, sound, video and voice products. Founded in 2004 by Steven...

  • Hairstylists and Salon business partners in their shop

    SBA Helps Salon Manage Growth and Pandemic Impact

    C&R Beauty Bar is a premier salon for curly and natural hair services. Since founded in 2015 by Rodricka “Ricka” O’Bannon and Chenica Racine, the salon has offered custom hair services, including cuts...

  • Law Firm building on a sunny day

    Attorney and Entrepreneur Revitalizes Communities and Creates Jobs in Southeastern Kentucky

    Joshua (Josh) Howard had been interested in entrepreneurship from a young age and worked for various small businesses before starting his own businesses. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Pre...

  • David Dafoe Small Business Person of the Year

    2023 Kentucky Small Business Week Winners

    David Dafoe, Founder/CEO of Flavorman and Moonshine University, is the 2023 SBA Kentucky Small Business Person of the Year. Flavorman is located at 809 South 8th Street in Louisville. He previously...