Empowering Entrepreneurial Dreams: How the Hamilton County SBDC at ULGSO is Shaping Cincinnati's Business Landscape

From Sunshine Caramel Company to Journey Steel:

Celebrating the triumphs of diverse entrepreneurs

with the support of the SBDC at ULGSO

Sweet Success: Sunshine Caramel Company's Journey to Growth

Cara Carter's entrepreneurial journey began with acquiring a beloved caramel candy company. What started as a part-time venture quickly evolved into a full-fledged business. However, Cara faced a significant challenge: her inability to meet the overwhelming demand during the holiday season. Enter the SBDC and Gino DiGiovanni, a Certified Business Advisor, who guided Cara to develop a robust business plan and financial forecasts. With the SBDC's assistance, Cara secured the financing necessary to expand her production capacity, ensuring that the Sunshine Caramel Company could delight its customers without interruption.



Innovating Children's Literature: The Story of Dwylett Chambers

Dwylett Chambers embarked on a mission to enrich children's literature with stories that address youth’s real-life challenges and emotions. Despite her creative prowess, Dwylett needed assistance transforming her vision into a sustainable business. The SBDC stepped in, with Gino DiGiovanni helping her to strategize and develop her ideas into a viable enterprise. From innovating children's literature with Kids' Reality Books to launching Chambers Montgomery Group, LLC, Dwylett's journey is a testament to the power of dedicated support in realizing altruistic and entrepreneurial goals.

Savoring Success: Sweets & Meats BBQ's Expansion



Kristen Bailey and Anton Gaffney's humble beginnings in a tent in Mt. Washington paved the way for Sweets & Meats BBQ's remarkable growth. Leveraging various small business resources and the guidance of the SBDC, they transitioned from a food trailer to planning a brick-and-mortar retail location and a catering facility. Their determination, coupled with the support of the SBDC and Business Advisor Gino DiGiovanni, has positioned Sweets & Meats BBQ for continued success and recognition, including attention from the PBS show StartUp.

Building Strength: Journey Steel's Commitment to Community

Journey Steel, Inc., founded by Barb Smith and Tom Garten, stands as a beacon of passion, integrity, and dependability in the construction industry. As a certified minority- and women-owned business, Journey Steel excels in its field and gives back through a paid pre-apprenticeship program for inner-city high school juniors. The SBDC has been a constant ally in Journey Steel's growth, with Barb's leadership and vision being spotlighted on the local Spectrum network.

Cultivating Health and Community: Heart-In-Balance LLC's Vision

Dr. Florence Rothenberg's dream of creating a clinic offering healthy dietary options and accessible healthcare in the Northside Neighborhood found support in the SBDC. With the center's assistance, Florence navigated the challenges of property acquisition and secured funding to bring her vision to life. Heart-In-Balance LLC is now poised to expand its staff and services, furthering its mission to promote health and wellness in the community.

About the Ohio Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) at the Urban League of Greater Southwestern Ohio

The Ohio Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) provide business counseling and assistance to individuals starting or growing their businesses. The Ohio Small Business Development Center at the Urban League of Greater Southwestern Ohio is more than just a resource; it's a partner in progress. Through personalized guidance, strategic planning, and unwavering support, the SBDC empowers entrepreneurs to overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams. The success stories of Sunshine Caramel Company, Dwylett Chambers, Sweets & Meats BBQ, Journey Steel, and Heart-In-Balance LLC are just a few examples of the transformative impact of this incredible institution. 

Ohio SBDC at the Urban League Greater Southwestern Ohio is staffed by highly trained, Certified Business Advisors®. The Center provides no-cost, confidential, in-depth, one-on-one counseling for businesses that will or currently employ under 500 employees. The Urban League’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is a cooperative effort of the private sector, the educational community, and federal, state, and local governments. SBDC partners include the Ohio Department of Development, the Small Business Administration, the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and more.

Connect with Ohio SBDC at ULGSO now.