TLC Unlimited: From Sailing Charters to Federal Contracting Success in the Virgin Islands

Tyler Rice and Elizabeth Nurse

In 2015, Tyler Rice and Elizabeth Nurse launched TLC Unlimited, channeling their shared passion for sailing into a charter management company in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Tyler captained the vessels, while Elizabeth handled logistics and guest preparations. 


Everything changed in 2017 when Hurricanes Irma and Maria devastated the USVI, crippling the charter industry. Rather than retreat, Tyler and Elizabeth pivoted boldly. Leveraging their project management expertise, they shifted to disaster recovery and general construction, helping rebuild homes, infrastructure, and the community they loved.
A turning point came in 2023 when the couple attended a federal contracting symposium hosted by the SBA’s Virgin Islands Office. There, they connected with contracting officers and gained critical insights on competing for opportunities in the territory. This exposure opened doors to government contracting.


As their business gained momentum, Elizabeth enrolled in the SBA’s THRIVE program, an executive-level training initiative designed to propel small businesses to new heights. “The program was instrumental in helping us rethink TLC’s operational practices and strategize plans for growth,” Elizabeth said.


The results have been transformative. From servicing just one federal contract for the General Services Administration in 2023, TLC Unlimited has expanded to perform work for multiple agencies, including the National Parks Service, the National Guard and the United States Coast Guard. This growth has strengthened the company’s foundation and expanded its impact.


Looking ahead, Tyler and Elizabeth are focused on scaling further. They plan to continue tapping SBA resources for financing growth and securing bonding for larger contracts. Above all, their motivation remains community-centered: creating more well-paying jobs for Virgin Islanders.


Through resilience, strategic pivots, and SBA support TLC Unlimited has not only survived crisis but thrived, contributing to the recovery and economic vitality of the U.S. Virgin Islands.
 

This article does not constitute or imply an endorsement by the SBA of any opinions, products, or services of any private individual or entity.