Breaking the Barriers to Year-Round Golf
Stingers Indoor Golf is an innovative indoor golf simulator facility in New Britain, Connecticut, that is revolutionizing how the game is enjoyed. Their state-of-the-art virtual golf systems offer perfect conditions every day of the year.
This small business was born out of a deep passion for the game and a desire to create a career centered around this sport. The founder, Frank Sgammato, driven by a commitment to golf and a dream of becoming his own boss, envisioned a place where golfers of all skill levels could play year-round, regardless of the weather or time of day.
Business Started
2022
Capital Access
$245,000
Significant Achievements and Impact
As a first-time entrepreneur, Frank sought assistance from CTSBDC for everything. "This was my first time doing anything like this," he says. The comprehensive support and counseling provided by CTSBDC were crucial in overcoming the various challenges faced in starting the business. "Having someone experienced to talk to helped me get through all the various challenges."
Denise helped Frank refine his business plan and financial projections, which led to securing a $200,000 SBA 7(a) loan from the Community Investment Corporation (CIC), along with a $45,000 equity infusion from Frank himself.
In addition to guiding the loan process, Denise assisted with developing a solid marketing strategy, focusing on Google, Facebook, and email marketing. Now, Frank is collaborating with her to further expand outreach efforts, specifically targeting corporate parties, team-building events, and memberships.
As a result of these efforts, Stingers Indoor Golf saw a notable sales increase of $265,000 by the end of 2023. It’s important to note that this comparison is between 2023 and just two months in 2022, as the business opened in November 2022.
Stingers Indoor Golf is preparing to expand its involvement in the community. Although the business hasn’t hired additional staff yet, there are plans to collaborate with Pulaski Middle School. The proposed after-school program would give students an introduction to golf at Stingers under the guidance of supervisors.
Key Lessons Learned
Since working with CTSBDC, Frank has learned a critical lesson: the importance of setting everything up properly even before opening. "The guidance from CTSBDC Business Advisor Denise Whitford was crucial," he explains. "She helped me with obtaining permits, building out the facility, and selecting the best POS system." Frank also anticipates another important lesson as he prepares to hire additional help, ideally before the end of the year.
A Recommendation to Fellow Entrepreneurs
The founder's experience working with Denise Whitford from CTSBDC has been overwhelmingly positive. "Denise is great to work with. She has lots of great ideas and is well connected," he says. The support from Denise led to an increase in revenues during and immediately after their collaboration.
When asked what advice he would give to other small business owners considering working with the SBDC, Frank is unequivocal. "It's a no-brainer, even if you've already started up a successful business before. Only good things can come from it."
Business Performance and Future Plans
Stingers Indoor Golf has launched its mobile simulator, which is now ready for commercial use as of mid-August. While the business thrives during the in-season, it faces challenges in the off-season. The mobile golf simulator was developed to address this issue, offering a flexible solution for private parties and corporate events. This addition is expected to help increase sales during slower periods and expand their reach beyond the facility
Stingers Indoor Golf is now a beacon for golfers in New Britain and beyond, offering a unique and enjoyable way to play the game they love, any time of the year. This success story exemplifies how passion, innovation, and the right support can turn a dream into a flourishing business.