Helping a New Entrepreneur Launch a Business

Mizi Sansivero,

The Print Hub

May 22, 2019 -

With years of experience and a loyal customer base, Mizi Sansiverso knew that she could run a successful business but needed help getting setup. She contacted the Connecticut Small Business Development to speak with an expert about launching a business.

business start

Business Start

2018

capital accessed

Capital Accessed

$80k Line of Credit

jobs created

Jobs Created

3

 

 

Owner: Mizi Sansivero

Business Start Date: August 1, 2018

What Does Your Business Do?:

We are a digital printing and design center. Our mission is to provide our customers with the highest-quality digital printing, copying and design services possible in a timely fashion and at a competitive price. We offer a wide range of products and services to accommodate all business needs. We pride ourselves on our dependable customer service, high quality production technology, excellent design staff and fast turnaround.

What Inspired You to Start Your Business?:

I worked for Konica Minolta for 18 years in their digital image center. When they decided to move the company to the headquarters in NJ I decided not to move and since we had built a nice customer base at KMBS, it was really a no brainer to open up my own digital printing shop. We had a customer base of around 500+ customers that were very excited to follow us to our new business.

Before Coming to the CTSBDC, What Were Your Primary Challenges and/or Needs?:

Never owning a business before I had no idea where to start and how to get started or what I needed. I knew I wanted to form a LLC, but had no idea how to do that. I also had never written a business plan so I needed help with that as well.

How Has the CTSBDC Helped You Overcome Your Challenges?:

CTSBDC was amazing, they helped me get my LLC set-up, my EIN tax number and write my business plan.

What Have You Learned/Changed Since Working with the CTSBDC?:

Everything I listed in the last answer. I also know if I have a question on anything, I can call them, and they are there to help.

How is Your Business Doing Now? What Does Your Future Look Like?:

Business is doing great; we have retained all off our customers from KMBS and have acquired new customers that we are so happy to have found us.

What Was It Like Working With Your Advisor?:

My advisor Mike McDonald was wonderful. He gave me the confidence I needed to do this, there were days I was not sure if I should do this. I remember our first meeting. I had the option to purchase a business or start my own, after discussing both ideas and showing him some stats, he told me what I think I needed to hear, “with only knowing you for 20 minutes and hearing all that you have to say, you should open your own business…” I was so flattered to hear that. From that day on we met at least once a month or more and he guided and helped me through the entire process.

What Words of Advice Would You Give to Small Businesses Looking to Work with CTSBDC?:

I would tell them to do it, I have told a lot of people how they have helped me, how wonderful everyone was that I worked with and all the great services they offer for free and when you are starting a business, money is always tight, so free is awesome.

Quote from Business Advisor, Mary Kay Della Camera: 

Mitzi was focused and determined to work through the process of getting the business going. She was willing to listen and pivot when necessary, it was a pleasure working with her.

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