As the proud mom of two older Maltese Chihuahuas in Bay County, Jena Monville noticed her fur-babies did not do well sitting for long periods of time in drying cages at traditional dog groomers. Jena decided there ought to be a better way. She was so committed she quit her full-time job, took a position to learn dog grooming skills and bought a trailer to build her own mobile dog grooming business: Princess and the Hound. 

“Senior dogs tend to be less anxious and do better one-on-one, instead of enduring the cacophony of barking dogs you find at most facilities,” said Jena. “With my mobile dog grooming facility I can complete the grooming process faster and provide more individualized attention and care.” 

As a first time business owner, however, Jena recognized she needed help to secure financing and make her startup a success. She found the Michigan SBDC online and she first attended webinars, then met with Contract Business Consultant Michelle Judd. Together they refined Jena’s business plan and prepared her for the inaugural Business by the Bay: ‘Pitch Your Future’ event. After weeks of pitch preparation and rehearsal, Jena made it to the finals and won the $5,000 first prize! With her winnings she purchased additional equipment and custom-wrapped her mobile dog grooming trailer to advertise her business. 

In Jena’s words, “I can’t thank the Michigan SBDC enough for all the encouragement and advice they have given to me while opening Princess and the Hound. Michelle Judd, I appreciate all of your continuing support!”