Small Business Success Stories
STITCH
Raleigh, NC
Holly Aiken, entrepreneurial small business owner of STITCH, a handbag shop located at 20 E. Hargett Street in downtown Raleigh was guided to success by a SCORE volunteer.
Aiken, 35, a graduate of North Carolina State College of Art and Design said, "I started out making handbags for friends and slowly my designs became popular. I decided to do it full time. I didn't really know how to start a business. My mom mentioned SCORE and I made an appointment about 18 months ago. I didn't have a solid plan or money for growth."
Lou Martin, a retired project manager, worked with Aiken. She brought a whole bunch of 'stuff' with her not knowing what was required.
Martin interviewed Aiken ascertaining her need for a formal business plan and a small line of credit.
Manufacturing the handbags from a small space when she began her venture, Aiken's success has allowed her to relocate to downtown Raleigh where she achieves more local exposure. Her handbags are now sold on-line and at small boutiques around the United States.
"SCORE boasts five locations in the Raleigh area. Fifty counselors of various ages and demographics comprise the staff. High tech skills and a cross-section of diversified industries including marketing, IT, sales, real estate, retail, import/export and management offer a broad range of experience to those who seek advice," said Jerry Lustig, counselor and Chair of the Raleigh Chapter.
Every volunteer counselor goes through a five-point training program on-line and sits in apprenticeship roles-observing other counselors.
Active recruiting for the Speakers Bureau is a necessary function as 75 major workshop presentations for 600-900 people are made annually at Chambers of Commerce, Raleigh Business Expo, professional organizations and job fairs. "I find it very personally rewarding to give people the knowledge they need to become successful in business and to be able to share my own expertise," said Lustig.
Barry Silberman, a former New York business broker, began volunteering at Lustig's suggestion.
"After retiring two years ago, I figured I needed to keep my dendrites sharp. I've always enjoyed coaching. Volunteering at SCORE seemed a perfect way to do a good deed as well as meet new friends. We work as a team. Not only do I get the satisfaction of helping someone move toward success, but I am constantly learning and delivering new perspectives," said Silberman.
Should you want to re-invent yourself or fulfill a dream, all services are free to people in various stages of business from beginning to end.
A self-evaluation pre-screening class sets in motion the process of answering whether you are prepared for a life in business.
"Being able to get advice, asking a variety of questions and having a person like Lou to help, has been an amazing experience. Not having to worry about paying for it gave me peace of mind. But having someone say, 'Yes, you're on the right track,' was the best," concluded Aiken."