Small Business Development Center Helps Food-Trailer Expand into Brick-and-Mortar
Martin Flores, the owner of Marty McPies, was introduced to the Del Mar College Small Business Development Center by a friend while building his then-food trailer.
In January 2021, business advisor Mike Thompson helped Flores start operating a legal food trailer business. In 2023, Flores returned to SBDC because he wanted to expand his business.
Business advisor Theresa Moffit helped the entrepreneur organize his business expenses and paperwork to get a loan for his restaurant.
The SBDC offers no-cost resources to entrepreneurs and business owners, whether they are just starting or seeking to expand their existing business knowledge.
It also provides free services to small businesses in the Coastal Bend region, supported by funding from the Small Business Administration, Del Mar College, and Nueces County tax dollars.
It also offers a variety of services such as confidential business advising, business startups, selling businesses, retirement and so much more.
With the help of SBDC, Flores turned his food truck into a successful brick-and-mortar within two years.
“We now have a better understanding of operating expenses, P&L, and other aspects of running a restaurant. We have been able to expand and thanks to the counseling and help of their advisors and online courses that are offered,” Flores shared.
According to SBDC Program Coordinator Ashton Everett, there are a variety of ways the center can help you expand your business through its programs, no-cost training, and network resources they have available.
“We are here to help your business succeed,” Everett said.
Once you become a client of the SBDC, you gain comprehensive access to all their resources. If they don’t have what you need, they will connect you with the right contacts who can help.
If you’re interested in exploring the services offered by SBDC or becoming a client, visit www.delmar.edu/SBDC to request business advice. You’ll be paired with a certified business advisor who will help you take the next steps in advancing your business’s development.
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