America’s SBDC Blog

A “Forbes 100 Best Websites for Entrepreneurs”

Medical Equipment Supplier Reaches Global Markets

October 15, 2025
Medical Equipment Supplier Reaches Global Markets

Aydin Bilgutay, a second-generation owner of the company Infinium Medical, a leading patient monitor manufacturer and medical equipment supplier based in Pinellas County, has continued to grow the business alongside his brothers ever since his father started it over 30 years ago. Since taking over the business, the team knew they wanted to keep up with their exporting success and reach global markets. That’s when they decided to reach out to the Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at the University of South Florida (USF) for professional advice and guidance.

Continue reading

 

nTechQuity: How an Intergenerational Program is Closing the Digital Divide

October 8, 2025
nTechQuity: How an Intergenerational Program is Closing the Digital Divide

In her former information technology roles, Todd Rennae Boone witnessed a wide digital divide. “I worked with young people in marginalized communities,” she explained. “What struck me was that the only difference in learning wasn’t their ability, but the resources to which they had access.” 

Fueled by a desire to bridge this gap, Todd launched nTechQuity Community Learning, a unique initiative fostering intergenerational learning. At nTechQuity, she matches tech-savvy kids up with not-so-tech-savvy seniors, and the knowledge shared and the relationships forged are transformative.

Continue reading

 

Brewing Connection and Community at Java Moon

October 1, 2025
Brewing Connection and Community at Java Moon

When Megan Cook acquired Java Moon in December 2021, her intention was to preserve the cherished legacy of the historic business in downtown Sheridan, while infusing it with a dynamic energy to propel it forward. For years, Megan had dreamed of owning a business downtown with a communal ambience. “I wanted to create a welcoming vibe where people can come to gather, to meet with friends and enjoy great food,” she explains. The menu at Java Moon ranges from made-from-scratch pastries to hearty lunch options and bespoke catering.

Continue reading

 

Community Ties, Relationship with UGA SBDC Leads to Growth for Restaurant Franchise

September 25, 2025
Community Ties, Relationship with UGA SBDC Leads to Growth for Restaurant Franchise

Like many small business owners, Purvi Patel, a franchise owner of fast-casual Mexican grill Dos Bros, was struggling to keep her restaurant going during the pandemic. After attending a University of Georgia Small Business Development Center (UGA SBDC) class on small business funding and pandemic resources, Patel set up a meeting with UGA SBDC business advisor Nora Guzman to help guide her through the pandemic funding process.

Patel’s relationship with UGA SBDC in Rome has grown to focus on other areas of the business, from business financials and marketing plans to expanding catering options and streamlining the ordering process. Today, Dos Bros has added two more franchise locations and has seen a significant growth in revenue.

“I helped them navigate how to get funding from the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and helped them figure out the loan forgiveness process, but our relationship has expanded since,” said Guzman. “Anytime Purvi has business-related questions, she knows she can call me.”

Continue reading