What does the “B. B.” represent in B. B. Trophy & Awards? “It stands for ‘blessed business,’” according to owner Sheila Kloski. Her faith is front and center in the business, as evidenced by the promise on the company website to treat all customers with the Golden Rule.

Both Sheila and her husband Dave had worked in the recognition industry for years and had the opportunity to purchase an existing awards company. They knew they needed counsel, because neither of them had ever owned a business before. After doing some online research, Sheila was referred to the Michigan SBDC by her local Comerica small business banker. With the knowledge Sheila and Dave gained from the Michigan SBDC, they decided to venture out on their own.

They opened the doors in 2008 – in the depths of the one of the greatest recessions in current history – but survived the financial storm and emerged with a flourishing business. “The business was doing well, but I was working in the business, not on the business,” said Sheila. “I didn’t keep up on marketing, and our kids were our only employees. I knew none of them were interested in taking over some day, but I wasn’t looking forward to the future when I’d have to replace them. I didn’t develop processes to make it easier for my business when they would leave.”

Sheila reached out again to the Michigan SBDC where she got connected with Business Consultant Wendy Richardson, who helped Sheila refine her business plan, optimize pricing and establish a solid marketing plan. Wendy was a “God-send, constantly sending me information, making me aware of online training and offering to help in any way possible. Working with the Michigan SBDC is like a safe zone – a place where you can allay your business worries and fears without judgment. It’s incredible,” continued Sheila

Sheila remained vigilant, and although she briefly had to shut down the business during COVID, she quickly re-opened it with even more determination. She added: “I learned a lot about myself in the process. I had fleeting moments of thinking I was a failure – and then I realized I was not. I’ve been in business for nearly 17 years, when most businesses don’t even make it five. I’ve learned to share my story, and from it comes strength.”