- Christopher Barstow
- Thursday, February 29
If you are a small business owner or want to be one and you have questions about any aspect of your business. Please consider contacting the SC Small Business Development Center (SCSBDC). They will not only meet with you for free, but they also offer a lot of free classes. I had a chance to interview SCSBDC Business Consultant Robyn Marren about her small business journey, starting a small business and the great services that SCSBDC offers.
1. Could you please tell us a little bit about your small business background and how you came to be a part of the South Carolina Small Business Development Center (SBDC)?
In addition to an MBA, I have worked in business roles within corporations and institutions of higher ed for over 20 years. Most recently I served as the Director of Finance at the USC Joseph F. Rice, School of Law. My husband and I own a painting business called Town Square Painting, LLC. It has been in business for over 10 years and now has a 5 star google review.
2. What services does SBDC offer and is anything still done virtually? What services are free and which ones are not?
We offer free consulting, educational programs, and access to resources. All can be done virtually, or if clients prefer, we can meet in person. Our free training covers business topics such as: starting a new venture, writing a business plan, how to attain financing, how to market your business, social media, and bookkeeping. The vast majority of our training is free, and you can find our current offerings at: https://www.scsbdc.com/training-events
3. What is the is the most important thing to take into consideration before starting a small business?
Starting a small business requires careful planning and consideration. One of the most crucial aspects is conducting thorough market research. Understanding the market landscape, including customer needs, competitors, and potential challenges, is essential for creating a successful business strategy.
4. Have you ever been a small business owner, if yes, did you use a similar service when you started your business?
I still remember when my husband and I started our business and how hard it was; we didn’t know about Small Business Development Centers across the nation. We made lots of mistakes including paying for services which we could have gotten for free if we would have connected with our local library and SBDC.
5. What is the wrong reason to start a business?
Some people think that starting a business is a quick way to get rich. What they don’t realize is how much work and commitment it takes. Not only does it take hard work, but you must be passionate about the business's mission, products, or services to stay motivated and engaged.
6. Are there places to get small business financing that don’t require perfect credit?
Many local banks and credit unions in Columbia, SC, offer small business loans and lines of credit. They may be more willing to work with small business owners who have less-than-perfect credit, especially if they have a strong business plan and a good relationship with the institution. So, my advice to small business owners is to build a relationship with their local bank or credit union before it’s time to ask for a loan.
7. How much money do you have to have saved up before starting a small business? Can some businesses be started on a shoestring?
The amount of money needed to start a small business can vary widely depending on the industry, business model, location, and other factors. Some businesses can be started with relatively little money, while others may require a significant investment.
8. What is the biggest mistake people make when starting a small business?
Many people don’t do enough market research before starting their business. Market research is critical in order to understand the needs of your target market, understanding potential competitors and determining the viability of your business idea.
9. What is the best way to contact you about utilizing SBDC services?
Email is the best way to reach me: Robyn Marren: rmarren@mailbox.sc.edu.
10. Is there anything you would like to add?
I’m thrilled to be partnering with the Richland Library to market and communicate our services. As a free service, there are few obstacles preventing us from assisting businesses, except for the need for increased awareness about our existence. So, spreading the word about the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is a great help, and we are grateful for the spotlight
Many Thanks to Robyn Marren and SCSBDC for participating in the Richland Library Community Partner Spotlight.