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 owners right here in southeast Iowa!
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!
