Category Archives: Operations

Are you Still the Right Fit for your Business?

When you first started your business, you had a lot of passion and drive to get things going. Now, that you have been in business for a while, you should ask yourself if you are still the right fit to

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Transition from Fortune 500 to Florida Mid-Size

Transitioning from a multinational Fortune 500 company, to a Florida mid-size business is filled with challenges. When Steve Collins purchased Coast Brothers from the original owners in 2010, he took over the 13,000 square foot warehouse and its 10 employees

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Ten Star’s Screen Print Growth Leads to New Products Division

After years in management with some of the best corporations in the world, Donna and Jack Killoren were excited to apply what they’d learned toward owning their own business. They had an opportunity to acquire Ten Star Supply Co., which

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Funding Programs for Training Your Employees

            There are several local opportunities and grants available for small businesses in the areas of training new hires and enhancing the skills of existing employees.  Since all the different options and partnerships can be

Posted in DeSoto County, Hardee County, Hernando County, Highlands County, Hillsborough County, Human Resources, Locations, Manatee County, New Business Grants, Pasco County, Pinellas County, Polk County, Sarasota County, Start-up Assistance | Tagged | Leave a comment

Is Strategic Planning Really Needed?

  Trying to build your business without a strategic plan is like baking a cake without a recipe. Without it, any major expansion or improvement might turn into a big mess. To successfully build your business, you need to evaluate

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How Entrepreneurial Stenosis Prevents Your Company From Expanding

As a lifelong student of entrepreneurship, the most important thing I’ve learned is that a business must always grow. Growth is what makes your business worth something once you are ready to cash in. The hazard for most business owners

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Magic Floridian Formula Implements Growth Acceleration Plan

Ever wonder how some people always have a great Florida tan? If it was sunless, the ingredients of the magical lotion may very well have come from Biddiscombe International in Pinellas County.  Its owner, John Melville, is positioning the company

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5 Reasons to Hire a Veteran

If you’re looking to fill an open position you should consider hiring a military veteran not only for the tax benefits, but also for their ability to work efficiently and perform well under pressure. The Employ Florida Vets web portal

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10 Areas to Evaluate Before Expanding

Most entrepreneurs actively try to grow their business. However, the sudden increase in revenue frequently leads to significant operational problems. Growing too fast can have a domino effect throughout the company. If there is too much work, you can expect

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Keeping your Business New Year’s Resolutions

With a new year comes New Year’s resolutions.  Let the SBDC help you make and keep yours.  At the SBDC, we provide empowering resources for you and your business.  Our consultants can support your needs and connect you to resource

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The formula for making companies start and grow faster: Seeking Successful Business Magic Sauce

The Kauffman Foundation is in search of the magic sauce that fuels business success. The foundation asks “if the best indicator of a country’s growth is in the number of new firms started every year, how do you get more

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At-Home Bakers Can Now Sell Their Products

On July 1, 2011 the State announced the Florida Cottage Food Act which opens the door for the creation of new home based enterprises. This Act now allows the home preparation and sale of Cottage Products. “Cottage food product” means

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Big expense, but wont see it on your financial statements!?

High turnover is a good thing, if you’re talking about tables in a restaurant or inventory.  But, if you’re talking about personnel it could be one of your biggest expenses and it’s the one that doesn’t show as a line

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What would happened if your business REALLY Learned to DELEGATE?

If you asked me if I was a micro manager I would have answered “Absolutely not. I delegate.” It wasn’t until I had to stay home for four weeks for medical issues that learned some of life’s most valuable business

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Is Your Idea Patentable?

Fledging and established entrepreneurs alike come to the SBDC at USF seeking assistance in determining if their next great idea can be protected. Some of the most common questions asked are:  What can be protected?  What does it cost?  

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