Success Stories
Southeastern Small Business Development Center Success Stories
Inspiration sometimes comes from hearing or reading a story about a small business success. The following stories are from small business owners located right here in southeast Iowa!
The Party Supply, Inc.
The Party Supply Inc. opened in 2004 in Keokuk, Iowa. Owner Carol Mortimer first approached the SBDC to find out how to start a business. Carol had been laid off from a factory job in Keokuk. She noticed there were no businesses offering party supplies, except for a few plates, napkins and streamers at Hy-Vee and Wal-Mart. Carol and her husband invested $20,000 into the business, along with a $40,000 loan from First Community Bank in Keokuk. The Party Supply Inc. recently expanded and relocated to Main Street in Keokuk.
Ivy Bake Shoppe
Martha Wolf and Susan Welch-Saunders both had a passion for cooking and entertaining. Investing $100 each, along with three other friends, the quintet started baking and selling goods on a sheet-covered ping pong table in Sue’s basement in January 1992. Today Martha Wolf and Susan Welch-Saunders manage two Ivy Bake Shoppe locations; Sue in Fort Madison, and Martha in Burlington. The business employs 24 part-time employees and has been a featured story in many publications, including an article in Time Magazine in 2000, and one in the Chicago Tribune in 2004.
Sally Nichols - Burlington in Bloom
Burlington in Bloom has been in business since April, 2005. Located on Division Street in Burlington, owner Sally Nichols shares her story of starting a business after finding herself unemployed after a major regional employer shuts the plant down. Sally's enthusiasm and passion for business is contagious!
Toni Cory - Almost Home Dog Daycare and Boarding
Toni Cory found herself unemployed after her job of 28 years was eliminated. Toni decided to enter into a new career, re-educated herself, and relocated herself her husband and two dogs to Mt. Pleasant to start a new venture and chapter in their lives. Toni's story is a story of true courage and entrepreneurial spirit!
Gina Wells - Sudden Impact
Gina Wells wanted to own a business and be her own boss. Gina has run a successful business for seven years, and has expanded personally into consulting. Her story is a true inspiration!
