Someone once said “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure.” Curtis Smith would agree, as he’s found gold in the business of trucks that haul garbage and more. “At Smith Truck Body in Rosebush, we build and install roll-off trucks, hook lift trucks and rear load garbage trucks,” said Curtis. “We also sell heavy duty truck parts and service light-, medium- and heavy-duty trucks and do mobile hydraulic repairs.”

Curtis is the first to admit that while he’s an expert at everything related to trucks, he was no expert on the back end, or the technical side, of running his business. In addition, he sought capital to fund it. He found it challenging to find banks and insurance companies who understood the business and wanted to work with him. 

An online search for business coaching led him to the Michigan SBDC, where he met Business Consultant David Vajda. David helped Curtis refine his business plan and package it in a way that was more compelling to financial institutions. The hard work and networking paid off—Curtis secured a loan from Northern Initiatives that allowed him to expand the business, hire a new employee and buy new equipment.

“Not many people are like us – first in this industry. David understands the industry and was able to help make connections. He’s a great resource to have,” commented Curtis. “Dave got me to sit and focus on things which helped lead to getting another location, and makes sure that I am being diligent about everything. We’ve been able to grow our staff consistently as the business grows through a lot of the tools and resources he and the Michigan SBDC brought forward.” 

David added, “My proudest moment as a business consultant is when I hear at the end of working on a project like getting financing, ‘we couldn’t have done it without you and the Michigan SBDC.’”