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America Industrial Guide of Hillsborough County

Starting a business often requires determination, vision, and the right support. For Maria Smith Pico, owner of American Industrial Guide, the goal was clear: to provide innovative and eco-friendly cleaning products that are safe for people, pets, and the planet. With a commitment to sustainability and excellence, Pico sought to make a difference in how homes and businesses approach cleanliness.

“I lost my father over 20 years ago in Colombia due to toxic cleaning products. This motivate me create safe and sustainable solutions,” Pico said as she explained why she decided to launch this type of business.

While the vision was strong, navigating the complexities of starting and growing a business required professional guidance. That’s where the Florida SBDC at Hillsborough County stepped in. Business consultant Janette Blanco worked closely with Pico to develop a comprehensive business plan that laid the foundation for success. From market analysis to distribution strategy, every step was designed to support sustainable growth.

“I want to take a moment to thank the tremendous support I have received from Janette Blanco, the Florida SBDC at Hillsborough County, and ECC [Entrepreneur Collaborative Center]. Janette introduced me to the SBDC and the valuable resources. Guided me from the very beginning of my business journey. Her expertise and dedication also connected me to critical community resources that have been instrumental since I first opened my door,” Pico said. “The Florida SBDC at Hillsborough County has helped me in four areas: 1. In strategy planning, 2. Minority certify, I have 21 certifications 3. Networking, local and the city, 4. improve operations,” she added.

Since its launch, American Industrial Guide has expanded its presence across the Tampa Bay region, gaining recognition for its high-quality, resource-conscious products. By offering solutions that conserve water and reduce environmental impact, the company has not only built a loyal customer base but also made a positive impact on the community.

“Our sales has increased to $12,000 a month, we have 7 employees and 5 distributors. American Industrial Guide has made 1.8 million dollars in investment in East Tampa and we project invest 2.5 million in the future,” Pico stated.

Looking ahead, Pico plans to continue leveraging the resources of the Florida SBDC at Hillsborough County to further grow and innovate. “Moving forward, I reach out to Janette for questions [on] export and import, government contracting, and planning.

With a focus on continued excellence and sustainability, the future looks bright for American Industrial Guide. When asked what piece of advice she would give to other small businesses, the business owners said, “I would tell small businesses to call the Florida SBDC at Hillsborough County for information because they help you grow at no-cost.”

Safe Harbor Financial Advisors of Pinellas County  

Running a small business comes with unique financial challenges, and Jody Zellner, owner of Safe Harbor Financial Advisors, understands that firsthand. As a full-service financial advisory firm, Safe Harbor Financial Advisors specializes in helping small and independent business owners achieve both their personal financial goals and establish strong financial plans for their employees.

Zellner launched Safe Harbor Financial Advisors with a passion for supporting entrepreneurs, recognizing that financial stability is key to long-term business success. However, like many growing businesses, marketing and strategic planning were crucial for expansion. That’s where the Florida SBDC at Pinellas County Economic Development (PCED) came in.

With the guidance of business consultant Kurt Forster, Zellner received professional advice on marketing strategies, business growth planning, and even information on potential grant opportunities.

“As you get through the basics, the SBDC and Kurt Forster will help you grow. You go from stage one where you’re learning what you don’t know to stage two where, okay, now you know what you don’t know and it’s a little overwhelming, so they help bring you into managing your business. Things like having a marketing calendar. Knowing who your experts are. Knowing where to turn,” Zellner said.

Since partnering with the Florida SBDC at PCED, Safe Harbor Financial Advisors has experienced significant growth, expanding its client base and enhancing the services offered to small businesses. “Since working with the Florida SBDC at Pinellas County my business has grown tremendously. To measure, I would probably to say it’s grown at least 10 times over the initial start. When I started getting help from them, I was an independent financial advisor, but I was working for other firms,” Zellner said.

“I think my biggest success so far has been being able to go out and start a brand and a company that I believe in that represents who I am. Not everybody is designed to market to every group of people. I specifically like working with my small business owners,” Zellner added.

Looking ahead, Zellner plans to continue leveraging the Florida SBDC at PCED’s resources to navigate future growth opportunities.

“As I continue to grow my business, I plan on continuing to use the Florida SBDC at Pinellas

County to refine my business marketing. I no longer have to tell people who I am. Now it’s more of refining the message to telling people what I do – getting that target market down. Like we said before, as you grow you have more problems and now, I need them to help me manage those problems, whether it be taking on a virtual assistant, a full-time employee or just even helping me manage my social media marketing which is a whole other issue,” Zellner said.

To fellow business owners, Zellner offers this advice: “If I were to talk to other small business owners about Kurt Forster and the work he does at the Florida SBDC at Pinellas County, I would say there’s no bad time to use this asset. As I’ve mentioned before, they’ve helped me from formation through growth. Even through succession if that’s what you’re looking for. As somebody who invests assets for a reason, you have to look at return on investment and you’re investing nothing but time and gaining the knowledge that they provide to you. I don’t see how you can afford not to use the Florida SBDC,” Zellner expressed.