Nestled in Atlantic Mine, Michigan, a small town just outside of Houghton, Dynamic Metalworks LLC is a welding, fabrication and CNC plasma cutting company that’s proving big things can come in small packages. Founder Isaac Bukovich saw a gap in the local fabrication supply chain, and after years of working double shifts – his day job followed by evening side hustles – he decided to turn his passion into a reality.

His strategy: leverage small size as an advantage. By being quicker and more adaptable than larger competitors, Isaac’s shop would more readily cater to the evolving needs of his clients.

Isaac contacted a local bank for a loan, who in turn, connected him with the Michigan SBDC hosted by Michigan Technological University. Upper Peninsula Associate Regional Director Daniel Yoder quickly developed a rapport with Isaac. “Daniel’s been my rock – I give him a lot of credit for my success,” said Isaac.  “When I wanted to start, he gave me good advice on when and how to do it.”

Daniel assisted Isaac with forming an LLC, developing a business plan, navigating accounting and invoicing, crafting a marketing and sales strategy and connecting him with the right local lender to secure the capital needed.

“Since 2021 our revenue has grown exponentially,” said Isaac, and this success has him looking toward the future. “We’re looking at adding equipment, potentially needing a bigger shop and landing government contracts,” he reveals. “I highly recommend using the Michigan SBDC. Use their no-cost resources – they can help a lot.”