Wendy Ringo, owner of Sugah Please Coffee House LLC, embarked on a journey marked by both promise and unexpected obstacles. Although launched in Novi’s Twelve Oaks Mall, her vision for a unique culinary experience was a location in the vibrant heart of downtown Detroit, a transition fueled by resilience and the invaluable support of the Michigan Small Business Development Center (Michigan SBDC) and business growth consultant Bernard Drew.

Wendy’s initial connection with Bernard occurred when he spoke at a Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses cohort training session. This introduction blossomed into a nearly three-year partnership that proved pivotal in navigating the evolving needs of her business. While the mall location provided a starting point, Wendy’s ultimate goal was a street-side location in Detroit, a vision solidified by winning the Motor City Match grant.

The collaboration with the Michigan SBDC and Bernard became central to Wendy’s strategic planning. Their work spanned a comprehensive range of business aspects: analyzing operations, navigating funding, optimizing staffing and processes, securing financing, managing renovations and developing effective marketing strategies. Wendy emphasized the invaluable role Bernard played as a “sounding board,” providing balanced perspectives and expert guidance for informed decision-making.

The culmination of this partnership is Sugah Please’s successful opening at 150 W. Jefferson Ave. in downtown Detroit. With the Michigan SBDC’s assistance, Wendy also connected with and secured crucial capital from organizations like the Michigan Good Food Fund, Motor City Match and ProsperUS Detroit, strengthening her business foundation.

Today, Sugah Please is thriving, measuring its success through a strong brand, dedicated staff and increasing profitability. Within four months of opening at the new location, the business has generated significant revenue, demonstrating its positive reception in the Detroit community.

Looking ahead, Wendy intends to continue her partnership with the Michigan SBDC as she explores new opportunities for growth and expansion. She has also become a strong advocate for the organization, recommending its resources to other entrepreneurs.

Reflecting on her experience, Wendy stated, “Our Michigan SBDC consultant, Bernard Drew, provided us with essential guidance and resources throughout the entire process – all for no cost… He was instrumental in helping us turn our vision into reality.” She further added that Bernard was “an absolute joy to work with” and instrumental in providing the necessary information for making sound business decisions.