Business Plan Challenge winners named

VW independent/submitted information

The fifth annual Business Plan Challenge concluded on March 3, and, on March 17, winners of the competition were announced.

The challenge was open to businesses located in Van Wert County. This year, two businesses participated in the competition: Sister See Sister Do and Country Folks RV Repair. Businesses and entrepreneurs competing in the challenge spend approximately 3½ months attending workshops on business structure, market research, cost analysis, financing, and marketing development.

The challenge culminates with the submission and presentation of comprehensive business plans. Jennifer Rigdon, a business counselor with Wright State University-Lake Campus’ Business Enterprise Center, led the workshops and assisted with business plan development.

The business plans are submitted and presented to a panel of judges for review. This year’s judges included last year’s winner, Jolanda Arts of McCoy’s Flowers; Marie Miller of Brand It Marketing; and Mark Verville of First Financial Bank.

The first place winner this year is Michelle Gorman of Sister See Sister Do. Sister See Sister Do is a furniture and décor retail business that incorporates design assistance. Currently, Gorman offers classes on various projects at ReHab Fab and sells merchandise at ReHab Fab and Touches of Time Antique Mall. For more information, contact her at sisterseesisterdo@gmail.com.

The second place winner this year is Ryan and Arnelle Adam of Country Folk RV Repair. Country Folk RV Repair is a mobile RV repair and inspection business serving Van Wert and surrounding area. Ryan Adam is available to diagnose and repair RVs, as well as winterize them during the off-season. Additionally, parts and fixtures will be available for purchase for smaller DIY adjustments. For more information, contact the couple at cfrvrepair@onlyinternet.net.

The winners will each receive 500 business cards and QuickBooks and Excel training. The first place winner will receive $2,500 toward business expenses, while the second place winner will receive $1,500 toward business expenses.

Sponsors of the program include Burcham Printing, Wilkinson Printing, Wright State University-Lake Campus Business Enterprise Center, First Bank of Berne, First Financial Bank, and the Van Wert Revolving Loan Fund.