PALM HARBOR, FL (Oct. 2010) For more than two years, Julie Daniels, owner of Handyman Matters in Palm Harbor, Florida, has found great success as a small business owner. Despite the challenges of running a small business in a tough economy, the retired U.S. Air Force captain continues to move ahead, growing her franchise nearly 200% over the past year.
“It’s been a terrific run,” Daniels attests, “and I’m nowhere near stopping yet! I’ve been working with Pinellas County’s Small Business Development Center the past eight months, exploring opportunities that will allow Handyman Matters to continue building, literally and figuratively.”
Handyman Matters offers professional assistance with everyday home repairs, improvements, and remodels across the United States and Canada. Drawing on previous experience on construction sites and her determination to open her own business, Daniels purchased a Handyman Matters franchise in 2008.
“I did my research,” she explains, “and Handyman Matters offered a quality franchise at the right cost. And, after having been taken advantage of myself by an unscrupulous contractor, I knew there was a market for an honest, reputable company that follows through.”
“Julie is an excellent candidate for the small business services we provide,” says Dr. Cynthia Johnson, Senior Manager of the Pinellas County Small Business Development Center (PSBDC). “She’s consistently responsive and dependable as a PCSBDC client, as well as in her role as business owner.”
Since becoming a PCSBDC client, Daniels has received technical assistance to help expand the company into new markets, market its service effectively, and find qualified employees.
“With help from the PCSBDC, I’ve received certification through Pinellas County’s Small Business Enterprise (SBE) Program and Florida’s Certified Business Enterprise (CBE) Program, both of which have opened doors to new opportunities for Handyman Matters,” explains Daniels.
Additionally, PCSBDC has helped Daniels develop marketing strategies through one-on-one counseling and scheduled business classes, and connected her to WorkNet Pinellas’ Long-Term Employment Advancement Program Stimulus (LEAPS) program, which assists Pinellas employers with funding new job creation.
“Working with the PCSBDC has definitely helped move my business forward,” says Daniels. “There are so many programs and opportunities out there to assist small business owners, and the PCSBDC staff knows how to match clients to the right options for their needs.”
Adds PCSBDC’s Dr. Johnson, “I don’t need to wish Julie continued success – I already know she’ll have that. And we’ll be here for any of her future needs, as she continues to develop and grow as an entrepreneur.”
Learn more about Handyman Matters at www.clearwater.handymanmatters.com.
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