Holli Andrews, owner of Depot Town Cats and Dogs, has transformed her passion for pets into a thriving business in Ypsilanti. With guidance from the Michigan SBDC, she navigated the complexities of launching her own brick-and-mortar store, turning her vision into a vibrant community hub.

Holli’s journey with the Michigan SBDC began with a clear goal: open a pet supply store that was more than just a place to buy products. She wanted to build a community gathering space, and Michigan SBDC Certified Business Consultant Kory Scheiber was instrumental in helping her create a strong foundation for the business.

A significant part of the Michigan SBDC’s support was helping Holli with her business plan and financial projections. When Holli first met with Kory, her proposed startup budget was significant. Kory encouraged Holli to be frugal and creative to reduce it, and they worked together to cut the startup budget by more than 50% by repurposing and upcycling items instead of buying new ones. Old dining room tables, for example, were taken apart and rebuilt to create shelving, and large wooden spools from a utility company were whitewashed and used as unique displays.

This creative approach had a major benefit beyond just saving money. By significantly reducing her initial costs, Holli was able to move from seeking a traditional bank loan to securing a more accessible loan from a non-traditional lender. This strategic financial planning provided Holli with more flexibility and less stress as she launched her business.

After the business plan was finalized, Kory and Regional Director Ron Stevens made several visits to the store to provide advice on merchandising and store layout, helping Holli optimize the space and create a welcoming, organized environment for customers.

Holli also participated in a Michigan SBDC Small Business Support Hub program, where she secured a grant that allowed her to secure a temporary bridge loan for additional capital. When the grant was finalized and disbursed, Holli was able to immediately use the funds to pay off the loan, demonstrating smart financial management.

Since opening, Depot Town Cats and Dogs has become a beloved fixture in Ypsilanti. The store offers a wide variety of high-quality pet products and hosts community events that bring pet lovers together. These events, like the weekly “YPOP Ypsi Pets on Parade,” are key to the store’s success and are attracting new customers every day. Holli’s creativity and dedication, combined with the strategic guidance from the Michigan SBDC, have made Depot Town Cats and Dogs a destination for “fur baby parents” in Southeast Michigan.