For one Florida-based designer and manufacturer of aluminum alloy wheels, Hi-Performance Designs, cars have always been more than a business—they’re a lifelong passion. “Since I was about two or three, all I did was cars, go-karts, racing—so my background is automotive, and that’s my passion,” the owner, Henry Gaudens shared.
From a blank sheet of paper, he and his team design and develop wheels for everything from golf carts and trailers to classic and specialty cars. With six market segments and a focus on innovation, they create distinctive designs, engineer them overseas, and bring them to life for customers across the country.
But when a hurricane brought over a foot of water into their facility, the business faced a serious setback. “Our showroom was nice but completely destroyed from the inside,” Gaudens recalled. “Getting hit by the hurricane couldn’t come at a worse time,” he added.
That’s when he turned to the Florida SBDC at USF and senior business consultant Bill Burnham for help. “Bill was awesome – absolutely incredible,” Gaudens said.
Through the Florida Emergency Bridge Loan, the business was able to recover and begin rebuilding. “He helped a ton, and I explained what we were doing [and] he goes “We can figure it out.” Within I think two or three weeks we had it nailed down and finished after about four or five months of waiting… so without Bill I wouldn’t be sitting here with you guys,” he added.
The business owner thanks the Florida SBDC at USF and his business consultant for all of their help during the tough times and looks forward to what’s to come. “Since Bill helped us, he’s a source, so SBDC in general [is] fantastic,” Gaudens said.
Now, the team is back at work—reconstructing, designing, and staying positive. “Hopefully within the next couple months we’ll have this thing looking nice – having a good place, a clean nice place to work in,” Gaudens said.
https://enwqtxc9es4.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Hi-Performance-Designs-a-Florida-SBDC-at-USF-Success-Story-5.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=110801920sbdclarry/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Locked-Host-Logos-Horizontal-USF-Small-e1728920602651.pngsbdclarry2025-10-24 09:50:422025-10-24 09:51:16Revving Forward: Wheel Designer Gets Back on Track After Disaster
Silver Dolphin Restaurant and Country Store of Hernando County
Nestled between the ocean and canal, Silver Dolphin Restaurant and Country Store, a Hernando Beach destination for locals and tourists alike. With a unique main dining area known as the Secret Garden—a lush outdoor space with nearly 100 seats—guests can enjoy fresh food while surrounded by wildlife and the natural beauty of the Gulf coast.
The business was born from, owner, Yann Milcendeau’s appreciation for the area’s abundant parks and recreational opportunities. “With the ocean being right next to us and all the things you can do around here… it’s an absolute playground for anybody who wants to go on vacation,” Milcendeau said.
When challenges struck, the Florida SBDC at USF and senior business consultant Bill Burnham were there to help. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the business received critical assistance securing a Florida Emergency Bridge Loan, which allowed them to continue paying employees and complete renovations while closed. “The SBDC was instrumental in us surviving COVID,” Milcendeau shared. “The Florida SBDC actually saved us. Some businesses have never reopened because they had no cash up front, nothing that they could get on short notice. We did it and because of that we’re open today and we still employ our 32 employees at the Silver Dolphin,” he added.
Disaster struck again when a hurricane caused substantial flooding. “When the storm first hit you think that there is no hope – it’s over, you look at your property and you can’t believe what you’re looking at compared to what you had before, but we took the time to rebuild,” Milcendeau said. Once again, Burnham assisted in securing both a bridge loan and an SBA disaster loan, providing the funds needed to reopen.
“I want to thank the Florida SBDC at USF for all they’ve done for us, I really believe that they’re the greatest reason we’re still here because of the bridge loans and the money that we received as a loan to reopen so quickly. Most of all I want to thank Bill, he was instrumental in taking the application and making it easy for us,” Milcendeau said.
Today, the restaurant and store continue to thrive, welcoming families and friends to gather over food and enjoy the scenery of Hernando Beach. “Here at Hernando Beach, we’re all in business still. We’re all open and we’re better than before. We have come back to be more attractive to all the tourists, all the people that want to come and visit us,” Milcendeau said.
Thanks to resilience, community support, and guidance from the Florida SBDC at USF, this small business is stronger than ever.
https://enwqtxc9es4.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/The-Silver-Dolphin-a-Florida-SBDC-at-USF-Success-Story-1-Large.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=110801620sbdclarry/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Locked-Host-Logos-Horizontal-USF-Small-e1728920602651.pngsbdclarry2025-10-10 12:15:012025-10-10 12:15:07Hernando Beach Restaurant and Country Store Finds Resilience
What began as a Key West-inspired idea in the early 1990s has grown into one of Florida’s most recognizable frozen drink destinations. In 1993, after envisioning a place where locals and visitors could enjoy handcrafted daiquiris in a lively beachside setting, Troy Syprett and his partners launched their first Daiquiri Deck location in Siesta Key Village.
Today, the concept has expanded to five Florida locations, combining signature frozen drinks with a polished, casual dining experience featuring a menu designed by a Culinary Institute of America-trained chef.
But like many hospitality businesses, the restaurant faced significant challenges after natural disasters, Hurricane Debby, Milton, and Helene, disrupted operations. That’s when Syprett turned to the Florida SBDC at USF.
“The hurricane that did the most damage in our area experienced between 7 and 9 ft of storm surge. That storm surge inundated one of our restaurants with about 12 inches of water that had been contaminated with grease trap oil and other materials. Our store in St. Armand’s also experienced about 12 inches of flooding too,” Syprett said. “The other major impact that the hurricanes had on our region was the destruction of a large portion of the short-term rental accommodations and housing throughout the barrier islands, which led to a precipitous drop in our sales,” Syprett said.
Senior business consultant Scott Carpenter guided the business through disaster recovery funding, helping secure a Florida Emergency Bridge Loan and a Small Business Administration (SBA) Economic Injury Loan.
“Once we began working with the SBDC, Scott became our point person,” Syprett shared. “He not only helped us access recovery funds but also connected us with other SBDC advisors, including an import-export expert evaluating opportunities in South Korea and a financial advisor helping us strengthen our structure,” he added.
The owner credits the Florida SBDC at USF and his business consultant with being a steady partner through tough times: “Scott was able to help us and support us by connecting us with the correct people to help us get through that application process which we are still in, post storm. At this point [he] has been a critical point or a critical partner in helping us survive the last seven months after the hurricanes, his support and their support helped us secure the funds that we needed to get us through a very difficult time when we were lacking in customers and lacking in sales,” Syprett mentioned.
With recovery well underway, the company is thriving again and planning future expansions into new markets. “For the most part our stores have physically recovered except for one store we have that still needs major repairs. The other four stores are open and operating at full capacity and those stores have seen a return of sales,” Syprett said.
https://enwqtxc9es4.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Daiquiri-Deck-a-Florida-SBDC-at-USF-Success-Story-1-Large.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=110801620sbdclarry/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Locked-Host-Logos-Horizontal-USF-Small-e1728920602651.pngsbdclarry2025-10-10 12:12:322025-10-10 12:12:36Sarasota Daiquiri Bar Stirs Up Growth After Disaster
Spectrum Custom Molds & Manufacturing Inc of Manatee County
After two decades in corporate America developing new products and technologies, Michael Guidoboni felt a shift coming in the industry. “In 2016, 2017, the corporate industry was taking a little bit of a turn, and I started exploring what other options I had,” Guidoboni said.
Reflecting on an early passion for metal fabrication, Michael and Son, Adam Guidoboni, took a bold leap: purchasing a tool shop and transforming it into a full-service manufacturing company, Spectrum Custom Molds and Manufacturing Inc. “Bada bing, bada boom. Here I am eight years later, and you see where we’ve come,” Michael said.
The family-owned company has since grown into a one-stop shop for customers—offering everything from tool building to production, assembly, and distribution. With support from the Florida SBDC at USF and consultant Brad Mix, the business received guidance on financial planning, which led to successful results. “Our relationship with the Florida SBDC at USF has been ongoing for about five years now. I originally touched base with the SBDC for some assistance in getting financing for building the building that we’re sitting in right now. Needed the resources, didn’t really know where to go or how to proceed with that process. And early on I was connected with Brad from the Florida SBDC at USF and he helped me put my financials together so that we could go approach banks and lenders in an attempt to get funding for the building,” Michael said.
With Mix’s help the family business secured financing through a U.S Small Business Administration (SBA) loan with help from their bank in Wisconsin and Florida First Capital, which oversees the SBA 504 portion.
That funding helped fuel a major milestone: the build of a new facility in 2023. “Our biggest success is our new facility that we moved into in 2023 and all the equipment we’ve acquired since then,” Adam said. “We’ve purchased about three machines per year, which has really given us the opportunity to grow. The 10 acres we’re on gives us unlimited capability to grow past where we’re at,” Adam added.
In recognition of these achievements, the business received the 2025 Florida SBDC Veteran Business Owner of the Year Award during the Florida SBDC at USF’s Annual Business Awards. “Since the award ceremony from the Florida SBDC at USF, we’ve seen a lot of uptick in growth. Especially connections, new opportunities, quoting, it’s really given us an opportunity to grow as a business. And, that recognition, we put it on our website. We’ve seen a lot of interest from that and brought new parties,” Adam said.
Now thriving with sales growth, job retention, and national opportunities, the company continues to set its sights on the future of U.S. manufacturing and plans to keep the Florida SBDC at USF along for the ride. “So, as we continue to see success and the business grows, I can envision our relationship with the Florida SBDC at USF providing future opportunities for us. If we have to go build another building, we’re gonna need to get financing. I’m gonna reach out to Brad and say, ‘Here’s the situation we’re in, you know, how do you recommend we move forward? I value your input.’ I think all the information we’ve been given from the Florida SBDC at USF has been spot on and obviously has worked out,” Michael said.
As for advice to other local small business owners, the father and son duo mentioned taking advantage of the opportunities that are readily available. “For new small businesses that are coming into the area and growing, I think the Florida SBDC at USF really gives a good connection and opportunity, especially when you’re a new business and you’ve never been in business before,” Adam said. “I mean, we’re a fairly young business going into our eighth year and for anybody that’s in year one, year two, all the connections and advice in the beginning is more than helpful,” he added.
https://enwqtxc9es4.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Spectrum-Candid-1.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=134565184sbdclarry/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Locked-Host-Logos-Horizontal-USF-Small-e1728920602651.pngsbdclarry2025-10-01 13:04:272025-10-01 13:04:35From Corporate to Cutting-Edge Manufacturing: A Veteran and Family-Owned Business Thrives in Manatee County
Many factors need to be considered before a business engages in government contracting. It is a complex system that requires much research, monitoring, diligence and time. The following are questions to ask yourself before seeking government contracting opportunities.
Does your business have well-defined product or service lines? Have you been in business for at least two years and making sales during that time?
Do you have an established clientele with successful completion of projects of similar scope and budget? Can you list those companies as references? Do you have current contact information for those companies that you have verified?
Does your business have the capacity to successfully complete contracts on time and on budget? Will you be able to successfully service both your current clientele and the governmental entity should you be awarded the contract?
Do you have all required licenses, insurances, bonding, etc., in place? Have you scanned and digitized those documents (generally saved in .pdf form) so that they can be easily uploaded if requested. Keep in mind that, generally, pictures of the documents will not be accepted.
Have you secured relevant codes such as DUNS, Cage, NAICS, NIGP, etc.?
Have you prepared a capability statement? This is an important one as it is like your ‘resume’ which will be reviewed and evaluated.
Do you have time to attend various “Vendor Connect” events throughout the year to network and build relationships with procurement staff and large prime contractors?
Are you registered as a vendor with any municipality with whom you would like to submit a bid? Have you secured all relevant certifications offered by them?
Do you have the ability to check emails and vendor portal accounts every day? Frequently, changes (amendments) are made to bids and require a response of receipt from interested parties.
Do you have quick access to operating capital? Governments have a reputation for paying outside of their contracted reimbursement time limits. Also, invoice submission processes and procedures are known to be difficult with some entities not contacting a business should they need additional information or to make corrections. However, your business still must make payroll and buy supplies. The business is expected to be timely and within budget on all deliverables no matter the circumstances.
Does your company have a formal accounting system? Are the financial statements prepared by someone educated and experienced in accounting/bookkeeping? Has that professional done at least a sample review of postings to ensure accuracy?
Government contracting is complicated at best and requires a good deal of time for success. It should be seen as a supplemental, diversified income stream and not as a sole source. Remember the adage, “Government contracting is in addition to and not instead of,” so focus on creating a business that does not need to depend only on that. Always seek guidance from an experienced government contracting consultant and keep your head in the game. It is possible, you just need to be determined and work towards achieving it.
Retta Parsons brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in business management and public administration to her role as a business consultant. She previously served as CEO of Shiawassee United Way. In that position, she provided leadership to ensure the construction of a $26 million county medical care facility. She also led the change process and alliance establishment that resulted in the implementation of United Way 2-1-1 in Shiawassee County. Parsons also served as a training director for Girl Scouts, where each year she managed the delivery of approximately 124 trainings for more than 700 attendees.
Parsons enjoys being active in the community. Past roles include chairperson for the State of Michigan, Department of Health & Human Services, Shiawassee County, board; chairperson of the Shiawassee Human Services Council; and ambassador for the Shiawassee Regional Chamber of Commerce.
She earned a Master of Public Administration degree from Western Michigan University and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Human Resources Management from Spring Arbor College. She is a certified Child Care Facility Inspector, Instructor of Trainers, and Bridges Out of Poverty Trainer.
In her spare time, Parsons enjoys bike riding with her husband, Roger, and spoiling her children and granddaughter.
https://enwqtxc9es4.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Checklist-for-Local-Government-Contracting.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=17501420sbdclarry/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Locked-Host-Logos-Horizontal-USF-Small-e1728920602651.pngsbdclarry2025-09-27 21:52:012025-09-27 21:57:50Checklist for Local Government Contracting
by Retta Parsons | September 26, 2025 You are interested in setting up your business as a government contractor but are not sure where to begin. The process can seem like a confusing maze of deadlines, rules, and paperwork. Luckily, here are some quick tips to get you started: Finally, above all else, remember the […]
Corona’s Coffee Shop of Hillsborough County Nestled in the heart of Tampa, a cozy Latin coffee shop and restaurant, Corona’s Coffee Shop, has been serving flavorful coffee and authentic cuisine for over 40 years. Originally opened by a Cuban descendant with a passion for community and culture, the business was later purchased by its current […]
https://enwqtxc9es4.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Coronas-Coffee-a-Florida-SBDC-at-USF-Success-Story-2.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=120003000sbdclarry/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Locked-Host-Logos-Horizontal-USF-Small-e1728920602651.pngsbdclarry2025-09-24 10:57:472025-09-24 10:57:50Brewing Tradition & Resilience: A Tampa Coffee Shop’s Story
Bia Candle Company of Sarasota County Founded in 2019, Bia Candle Company, a Sarasota-based candle company has quickly risen from a startup idea to a thriving manufacturer and retailer with partnerships across Florida. The business, which specializes in high-quality, clean-burning scented candles, was born out of the founder, Bia Antunes’ passion as a candle aficionado […]
https://enwqtxc9es4.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/BiaCandle-Posed.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=120003000sbdclarry/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Locked-Host-Logos-Horizontal-USF-Small-e1728920602651.pngsbdclarry2025-09-23 10:37:362025-09-23 10:37:38Burning Bright: How a Sarasota Candle Business Sparked Success
The Story Garden of Pinellas County For one lifelong educator, a love of children’s books blossomed into a business that is now inspiring young readers across St. Petersburg. Megan Kotsko, owner of The Story Garden, opened her bookstore with a simple yet powerful mission: to provide children from birth through age 12 with a space […]
https://enwqtxc9es4.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/TheStoryGarden-Posed-Sitting.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=120003000sbdclarry/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Locked-Host-Logos-Horizontal-USF-Small-e1728920602651.pngsbdclarry2025-09-19 15:41:172025-09-19 15:41:19Turning a Passion for Children’s Literature into a Thriving Business
by Yolanda Goodloe | July 22,2025 In an era where global threats are increasingly sophisticated and the pace of innovation is accelerating; the United States government is turning to small businesses for answers and removing the red tape that has long kept them out. Other Transaction Agreements (OTAs) and Other Transactions (OTs) are transforming how […]
https://enwqtxc9es4.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Breaking-Barriers-How-OTAs-and-OTs-Are-Powering-Small-Business-Innovation-in-National-Defense.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=17501420sbdclarry/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Locked-Host-Logos-Horizontal-USF-Small-e1728920602651.pngsbdclarry2025-09-10 15:10:052025-09-10 15:10:09Breaking Barriers: How OTAs and OTs Are Powering Small Business Innovation in National Defense
Retta Parsons
Consultants, Hillsborough, ParsonsFlorida SBDC at Hillsborough County
Specialty: Start-up, Bookkeeping
Retta Parsons brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in business management and public administration to her role as a business consultant. She previously served as CEO of Shiawassee United Way. In that position, she provided leadership to ensure the construction of a $26 million county medical care facility. She also led the change process and alliance establishment that resulted in the implementation of United Way 2-1-1 in Shiawassee County. Parsons also served as a training director for Girl Scouts, where each year she managed the delivery of approximately 124 trainings for more than 700 attendees. Parsons enjoys being active in the community. Past roles include chairperson for the State of Michigan, Department of Health & Human Services, Shiawassee County, board; chairperson of the Shiawassee Human Services Council; and ambassador for the Shiawassee Regional Chamber of Commerce. She earned a Master of Public Administration degree from Western Michigan University and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Human Resources Management from Spring Arbor College. She is a certified Child Care Facility Inspector, Instructor of Trainers, and Bridges Out of Poverty Trainer. In her spare time, Parsons enjoys bike riding with her husband, Roger, and spoiling her children and granddaughter.