SMARTstart CO.STARTERS Success Stories

It was a great opportunity to learn from colleagues and subject matter experts on how to strengthen and grow a non-profit. It was meaningful and purposeful.

Kelly Sinn, LCSW, Sunrise Domestic and Sexual Violence Center

I actually came in to this class wondering, “What am I going to get out of this and is it worth the drive and time?”

Absolutely, it is! I believe every opportunity that is given you, allows for insight and growth. Never turn your back on those that come your way!

Beth Aker, Meals on Wheels East Pasco

Just when I thought I was comfortable operating my not for profit business… I was introduced to CO.STARTERS which helped me recognize where I can “strengthen the structure and plan for the future”! A HUGE thank you to Bill Cronin for believing in me to have been selected to attend the class and Dan Mitchell and Don Anderson for your talents and skills. You all are amazing and great leaders.

Debi Shackowsky, M arjorie's Hope

CO.STARTERS for Causes has given us innovative ideas, particularly in filling gaps in personalities needed to have a well rounded organization. Additionally, the networking opportunities facilitated by CO.STARTERS have connected NAMI Pasco with other like-minded organizations and professionals. This collaboration has led to valuable partnerships, resource sharing, and a stronger, more cohesive effort in addressing mental health challenges within Pasco County.

Debbie L. Proulx, NAMI Pasco

Participating in the CO.STARTERS for Causes class has been a transformative and enlightening experience, providing me with the essential tools, strategies, and network to transform my passion for assisting with barriers to Returning Citizens into a more sustainable and impactful organization. Heartfelt thanks to Pasco EDC, Dan, Don, and everyone who contributed to the class and our community for your invaluable support and dedication.

Coach J Pauls, Take Charge Wellness Center Extreme, Inc/ End Recidivism Project Extreme

SMARTstart really caused me to challenge my ideas and pick something that would make the biggest impact. The most pivotal moment for me was trying to do the break even analysis and understanding my costs, including paying myself in order to make this business work. The reason why it was so pivotal [I found out] through SMARTstart that I CAN do it, it was an attainable, acheivable goal at that point.

Nichole Dube, Dube's Mobile Market

SMARTstart gave me a place to start, they gave me a place to build confidence. And if it wasn't for SMARTstart starting off small, I'd never be the big company I am today.

Thomas Giella, Complete IT

In the beginning of summer 2018, a business partner of mine introduced me to the CO.STARTERS program. I quickly enrolled and with out hesitation went to my first class. The framework of the Canvas allowed me to put my ideas and mission down on paper in a constructive pattern that made sense towards my business plan. The expertise of the guest speakers and instructor gave me the tools I needed to fill in the blanks where I felt I was lacking; specifically accounting and legal. My final presentation of my business was so confident and secure at the end of the course, I landed a microloan through the SMARTstart program.

I am grateful for this start, the community, and launch into our new business that has been thriving. We opened January 2019, grew out of our first space by June and reopened a larger location in October. Innovative Studios is a collaborative studio that is home to three businesses: The Dance Company Trinity, Once Upon a Dance, and Power-Barre, while donating rehearsal and office space to the non-profit The Pasco Performing Arts Council. It is a studio carrying the mission of LEARN|CREATE|SHARE|GROW for both our faculty and our students and we are proud to be creating 3 different shows a year to showcase the amazing artists and performers!
Jillian Michaels, Innovative Studios

CO.STARTERS was able to educate, inspire and challenge me to get my business started the right way while also understanding future challenges. Not only was the class very educational but my other CO.STARTER members have also become friends, vendors and mentors even after the 10 week classes ended. I highly recommend CO.STARTERS to anyone who is wanting to start their own business and needs the support from others to challenge their thinking and help make educated business decisions.
Jenni Mullins, Moxie Digital

I am forging ahead with Coaching from Center. That is thanks, in large part, to [Krista Covey] and the CO.STARTERS program. I found the program to be of great value and will recommend it to others. You brought in excellent speakers (and business contacts!) and encouraged us to continue the relationships we made when the program ended. I am sure we will do just that.
- Bonnie Clark, Coaching from Center