In a fast-paced business world, making big and small decisions can feel overwhelming. No business operates in a bubble, whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or an aspiring founder. Community is an essential key to navigating the complexities and challenges of the dynamic business landscape.

Here are five practical ways to uncover honest business advice by networking and building community.

1. Reach Out to Leaders You Admire

Being a business owner can feel isolating, especially when you’re launching your new venture and big decisions are on the line. Networking can give you mentorships, valuable insights, and potential new opportunities in your enterprise.

Brent Donner, owner of DLC Manufacturing in New Ulm, Minnesota, says tapping into leaders in the fabrication industry across the country helped him build his consulting business – many became his clients. (Hear how Brent built his exceptional company by making tough choices and mentoring his team here.)

You may already know someone whose career you look up to. They don’t have to be in the same industry as you. They may have an outstanding work ethic or an exciting business model.

But maybe you’re thinking of someone you don’t personally know. Cold contacting (reaching out to someone you don’t know) can be intimidating, but put yourself in their shoes. Wouldn’t you feel flattered if someone emailed you saying they admire your work and wanted to connect?

Keep the message short by introducing yourself and your business, explaining why you love their work, and making a concrete request to connect over the phone.

It’s understandable to be afraid of rejection or feel like you can’t offer something to the relationship. But remember that networking is mutually beneficial. It fosters collaboration and showcases that genuine admiration is valuable.

2. Join Your Local Chamber of Commerce

A Chamber of Commerce promotes economic development for areas and neighborhoods by supporting local businesses. There are a lot of ways to get involved, depending on where you live.

You can attend networking events and sign up for education programs, like a Lunch and Learn or a panel conversation with area experts. Chambers of Commerce usually have member directories available to the public so that you can find recommendations for local services and partnerships.

You can also learn more about specific business changes in your community, like new commercial buildings or opportunities to promote your business.

You can explore membership levels that fit your business’s needs, like exclusive events or more visibility for the company. However you engage, becoming a local chamber of commerce member is an investment to connect with your community and advocate for businesses.

3. Tap Into Expert Resources

There are endless books, blogs, and podcasts for influential business advice. But instead of finding blanket advice, it can be more valuable to listen to stories from business owners about their successes and failures. You can also look for how-to guides and game-changing philosophies to ensure your business thrives.

If you’re looking for general news, tips, and business guides, the U.S. Small Business Administration has thousands of reliable articles for small business owners. You can also find books and online publications that focus on your specific industry – but remember to research the qualifications and background of everything you read.

Amanda Nelson, owner of Sioux Fall’s Blue Haven Barn and Gardens, says digging into research as they financed their businesses was essential for their launch.

Taking on loads of new information can be overwhelming. Set aside dedicated learning time for your business and bring specific questions. It will also help you to take notes while reading or listening and create action plans based on your learning.

4. Find Business Communities Online You Align With

Cultivating communities online can also be a great way to connect with people in your industry, collaborate with people worldwide, and grow your business. Creating behind-the-scenes and “Day in the Life” content on TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn can also put your business in the spotlight. You should also watch for webinars or virtual events within your industry.

You can also look on industry-specific platforms for links to Facebook groups, Discords, and forums. You’ll be able to engage in conversations and share resources with a community that understands your business’s unique challenges. Remember: these are collaborative, community spaces where you need to ask questions and give advice.

5. Cultivate Outstanding Business Partnerships

Every business owner needs partners to get your new enterprise off the ground. Tax advisors, lawyers, insurance partners, and banks are a part of your core team that sets you up for success.

Choose partners that will support the entire health of your business. Find people you feel comfortable asking questions with and have a business-minded approach to their work.

Jackie Thorson, owner of Thorson Heating in Sioux Falls, says choosing Fortress Union Bank as her finance partner meant she partnered with financial experts who think outside the box and root for her success.

Remember: this is a long-term relationship for your business. Relationships, from your community network to your business team, help set you up for many years of success.

Stories from business owners like you can give you valuable insight into your own enterprise. Listen to Dream, Plan, Live: the Fortress Union Bank podcast for stories, how-to guides, and advice from the experts Fortress Union Bank.

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Our Dream Big series introduces you to savvy entrepreneurs who have built their businesses from an idea to an innovation. We’re chatting with them about how they started their businesses, their steps to make them grow, and essential advice to future business owners.

Did you know that more Americans than ever are embracing their entrepreneurial spirit? Start-ups are surging, according to the latest census data. This trend is driven by a variety of factors, from people seeking financial independence to evolving work philosophies.

But, for aspiring entrepreneurs, lack of experience can be a barrier to entry.

Seven years ago, Amanda Nelson was at the same crossroads. But she decided to leave her job in banking to open a wedding and event venue with her husband. Today, Amanda’s vision has blossomed into Blue Haven Barn and Gardens, home to three stunning event buildings. It’s one of Sioux Falls’ most sought-after wedding destinations.

What does establishing and growing a career in a new industry take? Here, Amanda shares her five secrets to pivoting careers and building a thriving dream business.

You Can Start Your Dream Business Right Now: 5 Lessons from Amanda Nelson, Blue Haven Barn and Gardens in Sioux Falls

1. Get excited about changing careers.

Amanda grew up with a family with side hustles and businesses, inspiring her to start her own enterprise someday. She studied Business Administration at the University of South Dakota. Later, while working full-time in banking, she earned her Master’s in Business Administration from the University of Sioux Falls.

But as she rose through the ranks of the finance world, Amanda still had her mind set on finding a niche to start a business.

She advises future entrepreneurs to keep their eye on the ball but take lessons from working in other industries. You may have a colleague with an outstanding management style, or you may follow a company with a specialized market. Take note of successes around you for your future entrepreneurial endeavors.

2. Keep your eyes open for opportunity.

A decade ago, when Amanda and her husband got married, they realized there was a scarcity of wedding venues in Sioux Falls. After traveling the country for her friends’ weddings, she was awe-struck by beautiful, stand-alone venues dedicated to hosting dreamy wedding destinations.

The idea of a rustic barn venue just outside Sioux Falls began taking shape. Amanda pictured a venue that was so beautiful that couples had to say yes – high ceilings, a tall balcony, and green pastures. She started crunching numbers and sketched out a business plan. “We thought we could do it on the side, and that didn’t happen,” Amanda remembers. “It didn’t take long for me to quit my full-time job, and then we just kept expanding and doing the things we love.”

Business ideas are abundant if you keep your mind open. Amanda says she never expected to be in this industry, but her instinct guided intelligent business decisions.

3. Take stock of the skills you already have.

Before Blue Haven Barn, Amanda says she hadn’t worked in the wedding industry. But she says three skills propelled her success in the new business. First, Amanda’s work in banking gave her plenty of experience with numbers. Second, as a bank manager, she had outstanding interpersonal communication skills. Finally, Amanda and her husband were willing to jump in and help wherever needed, from filling in for dishwashers to training staff one-on-one.

“Josh and I are extremely hard workers,” Amanda says. “We’re not afraid to get dirty and bus dishes and do things like that. I think it helps a lot that we put our own sweat into the business.”

Everybody has skills that can boost success in another industry. As you develop your new business, assess what strengths and expertise you can bring to your new business. That will also help you learn where to bring in new partners.

4. The key to team management.

Blue Haven Barn has five full-time staff members and over thirty part-time banquet staff. In a fast-paced industry that changes daily, Amanda is committed to engaging and supporting every crew member.

How? She frequently sends surveys, hosts employee appreciation and bonding parties, and keeps everyone connected through newsletters and text groups. Amanda also has a special weekly award called “You Got Caught.” When employees get caught going above and beyond their work during events, they give out gift cards to thank them for their work.

“I have such a great staff,” Amanda says. “They’re trained well, I trust them very much, and I get awesome feedback from our clients.”

Amanda encourages business owners to find unique ways to build up their teams. When owners express gratitude and recognize their staff’s efforts, it boosts job satisfaction, increases productivity, and builds an enjoyable work environment.

5. Dream big, expand wisely.

Blue Haven Barn and Gardens started as one venue in 2016, but as the business grew, Amanda and her husband expanded their property. The Atrium at Blue Haven, a 500-person venue with an award-winning, in-house chef, opened in 2020. And this year, they transformed a photography studio on their property and opened a third venue called The Retreat. This building hosts micro-weddings and events for less than 100 people.

Amanda has partnered with Fortress Union Bank at every step of her business expansion. The Sioux Falls team is proud to support and finance Amanda’s booming business. And there’s no end in sight for Blue Haven Barn’s growth.

“There’s so many different things that we could do out here,” Amanda energetically says. “And every day, there are ideas that pop into my head.”

Looking for more advice for growing your dream business? Want to hear more about Emerald Hills’ rising success? Listen to Dream, Plan, Live: the Fortress Union Bank podcast for more tips from the business experts in your community and at Fortress Union Bank.

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Are you a bike enthusiast? A plant lover? A fitness fiend? For every hobby, there’s a business that supports it. That means you can turn your favorite pastime into a flourishing business.

Recreation businesses are a fast-growing corner of commerce. Picture a cookware store that doubles as a culinary school or a climbing gym that builds strength and community. This wave of entrepreneurship has been huge in the past decade, with people of all ages turning their hobbies into fulfilling careers.

Randy Rohlfson built his career on recreation. He owns and manages Emerald Hills Golf Course in Lake Okoboji, Iowa. He is personable with everyone he meets and dedicated to sharing the sport. That combination led to almost constant growth for Emerald Hills. Today, Randy proudly says the course is busy every weekend, and every golf league is at capacity.

With 31 years in the business, Randy is opening his strategy book for current and aspiring entrepreneurs in recreation. How do recreation businesses grow? What are the strategies for managing these enterprises? And what does it take to lead a business based on play?

1. Be prepared for the good and bad times.

Randy initially bought Emerald Hills with investment partners in 1993. He said this was a positive experience, especially in the early days as young managing partner.

But shortly after investing, catastrophic floods limited Emerald Hill’s golfing season for two summers. Then, two years after that, their clubhouse burned down.

“Well, there wasn’t much choice,” Randy remembers. “We had to rebuild because we were all into it do too deep now to think, ‘Well, let’s just get out of it.’ Then we would’ve lost everything.”

Emerald Hills came back bigger and better than ever. Randy is still grateful for his early partners’ advice and financial support. Emerald Hills has been smooth sailing ever since, but it’s still a seasonal operation. That’s why Randy is grateful to work with Fortress Union Bank for business lines of credit and operation loans in winter.

Ultimately, no business is immune from bad times. Still, Randy says every business owner should rely on outstanding partnerships to prepare for the best and worst-case scenarios.

2. “Smile, and make their day.”

The golf season typically lasts from late spring to fall, meaning most of Randy’s employees are seasonal. But he is proud to have a friendly, welcoming work environment that his staff wants to return to.

“That is something that you don’t see in a lot of places, and that’s what I kind of want to hang my hat on at Emerald Hills,” Randy says. “We want to be friendly and promise everybody that walks through the door a fun, good day. I gotta pass that on to all of my employees.”

Cultivate an employee culture where everyone is passionate about your work and authentically engages with your guests. Randy says this is central to influencing the community you build around your business.

3. Build a community with passion and education.

Randy’s office is filled wall-to-wall with photos of tournaments and junior golf camps at Emerald Hills from their first summers to now. Those programs are what he’s most proud of when he looks back at his career.

“I used to call junior golf the future of golf, but for me now, it’s the present of golf because so many kids that were on those early pictures are now my full members,” Randy explains.

Use your passion and dedication for your business to fuel its growth – it pays off in the short and long term. It will also make you an enthusiastic teacher for new people joining your community.

4. Embrace your multi-hyphenate job.

Recreation businesses often have multiple revenue streams. Think about a book store that hosts author talks and classes. It’s like a three-in-one business operation.

That’s why, at Emerald Hills, Randy says he wears a lot of hats during the day.

“I have evolved into a guy that wears seven or eight different hats every day,” he explains. “I’m teaching, club fitting, doing a group lesson, organizing a ladies’ day and checking in a hundred or so members, running and scoring a men’s league at night, and maybe selling a set of clubs in the middle somewhere.”

Randy says being the person who does everything is par for the course in business ownership. But in recreation businesses, you need to be the expert in every part of your operation and jump in whenever needed.

5. Know where your business can put its best foot forward.

Emerald Hills offers a golf course, a snack cart, a bar, classes, and a pro shop. But there’s one thing most golf courses have that Emerald Hills does not: a restaurant.

“We have a very nice clubhouse, which does not include a full-fledged restaurant, which I’ve chosen through the years,” Randy says. “A lot of country clubs do, where you sit down, order off a menu, and take two and a half hours to eat. We are not that kind of place.”

There are two reasons Randy says Emerald Hills didn’t expand into a restaurant. First, there are over seventy eating options in the Okoboji area. Instead of vying for a share of that market, Randy strategically decided not to compete. Second, he wants Emerald Hills to be a place for all golf enthusiasts. So, instead of a restaurant, they offer “golfer’s food” at the snack bar – hot dogs, hamburgers, ham and cheese sandwiches – to get their guests off to the next tee.

Understanding where to channel your energy for optimal business and community growth is at the heart of success. For Randy, recreation business owners should stay focused on the mission of their business. Evaluating where your business can be its best is essential for carving your business’s identity and scaling.

Looking for more advice for growing your dream business? Want to hear more about Emerald Hills’ rising success? Listen to Dream, Plan, Live: the Fortress Union Bank podcast for more tips from the business experts in your community and at Fortress Union Bank.

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Kasey Jensen, owner of Jensen Kennels, turned her passion for pups into a business.

Kasey Jensen, owner of Jensen Kennels in Vermillion, South Dakota. Kasey, a fresh college graduate, opened Jensen Kennels in May 2023 making Jensen Kennels the newest business interviewed for Fortress Union Bank’s Dream Big article series.

Like many business owners, Kasey turned her passion into a company. Her passion is her love of dogs. Not only has she been working with dogs her whole life, but she also has three of her own.

“The idea for Jensen Kennels started four years ago while I was attending college,” Kasey said.

A graduate of the University of South Dakota with a degree in Sports Marketing, Kasey started by watching dogs in her home. “At one time, I had 15 dogs, including my own, Baker, Finn, and Summit,” Kasey said. “I began to think the Vermillion area would benefit from both doggy daycare and boarding services. The nearest other facilities are over 30 miles away.”

From dream to reality

Once Kasey decided to move forward with her business idea, she had another decision to make: build a new facility or buy an existing building. After careful consideration by Kasey and her team, she made the decision to build but changed plans when a new opportunity arose.

“Two years ago, we purchased two lots with plans to build an 8,000 square foot facility,” said Kasey. “Then this building became available, and since its 35,000 feet, the opportunities to make it work now and into the future are almost endless.” Kasey purchased an existing facility on E. Cherry Street and began making improvements.

The pack is growing

Jensen Kennels already employs 12 employees, and they grew their canine fan base from 20 to 175 in a very short period.

“I’m happy with the progress we’ve made,” said Kasey. “We started with 10 to 15 dogs per day. Since we have such a large facility, we comfortably have room for 60 dogs for daycare and 40 for overnight. Our dog to handler ratio is 15:1.”

“The dogs are happy to be here,” said Kasey. “If they’re comfortable and enjoy their stay, it’s both peace of mind for their owners, and they’ll want to come back. We’ve also put a lot of thought into our layout and buffer zones. And, we use pet-friendly cleaning products.”

Kasey selected a cloud-based software package to run the business, including tracking the dogs’ experiences and creating daily owner reports. She also has a strong support network.

“My family owns businesses and have provided a lot of support,” said Kasey. “Also, a friend created our logo, and I use social media for most of my marketing.”

What does the future hold?

“We’re going to continue updating the building and make improvements as we go,” said Kasey. “I’m looking at improving outdoor facilities and researching how to expand training and add grooming services.”

For more information about Jensen Kennels, please visit www.jensenkennels.weebly.com or check out their Facebook page.

To learn more about working with a business banker at Fortress Union Bank, reach out to a location near you.

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As a business owner, Jackie is driven, innovative, and resilient. She advocates for women in the trades and gives generously back to her Sioux Falls community. It’s safe to say she’s a rising star in her field. Fortress Union Bank is proud to partner with Jackie and Thorson Heating.

Here, Jackie shares her five tips for building a business bigger and stronger.

1. Follow Your Passions

Jackie always knew she wanted a hands-on job. Initially, her dream job was to be a firefighter. She grew up around her family’s HVAC business, but after high school, Jackie took a summer job going on calls with her dad. After that, she was hooked and wanted to get into the trade.

But Jackie always knew that she wanted to own the business.

“My dad had always been very open that that was an option for me,” she remembers. “As soon as I started with him, he said, ‘If you really like it, and if you wanna stick in with it, this could be a future for you.’ And that was a really big motivator for me.”

Jackie advises business owners to stay true to what they love as they create their businesses. They’ll build a foundation from growing expertise and always enjoy doing the work.

2. Find Education Opportunities That Work For You

As Jackie continued her early career, she found chances to learn everywhere. She worked hands-on with the Thorson Heating team for a few months, then enrolled in Southeast Tech in Sioux Falls. Jackie discovered in her first class that she was the only woman in her program. But that didn’t stop her from applying her HVAC experience and getting the highest score in her first class.

“I guess it was still enough that I had people that wanted to be my partner in class, and it really just changed the game for me.”

After graduating two years later, she had all the technical know-how to thrive as a full-time HVAC technician. But her business knowledge came from classes at Johnstone Supply, hosted by Fortress Union Bank.

“That’s where I really started to develop business knowledge about the industry, the company’s inner workings, how to improve sales, and our bottom line.”

Look for opportunities to learn about people, the trade, and your business wherever you can find them.

3. Set Your Sights High and Commit to the Vision

Jackie had worked for her dad for 15 years when she started the process of buying the business.

“A lot of that had to do with the birth of my son,” Jackie explains. “That’s always a life changing experience that makes you want more out of life.”

Always ambitious, Jackie started researching her options for buying the business while keeping her dad in the trade. But her financing options kept hitting dead ends. She was determined to build her business her way, so when she finally met with Fortress Union Bank in Sioux Falls, she learned she didn’t have to compromise her visions. Fortress Union Bank partnered with The South Eastern Development Foundation (SEDF) to finance her operation.

Jackie advises aspiring and current business owners to stay true to the big picture of their enterprise and find partners that help them achieve that vision.

4. Embrace Change — The Business Is Growing

A lot of change comes with becoming a business owner—new responsibilities, new leadership roles, and, typically, more time. Jackie’s work splits in many ways: installation, consultation, marketing, social media, management, accounting, operations, and much more.

But Jackie advises business owners to embrace this transition and change.

“Every day is different, and we’re always fluctuating. It has been a struggle for me to learn to put down the tools, especially when we get busy,” she says. “I very quickly and easily want to hop in a truck and start running calls because we’re busy, and in reality, I sometimes need to be here behind the scenes.”

5. Think Long Term, Past, Present, and Future

“We’ve been around for 80 years, and I don’t take that lightly,” Jackie explains when discussing the future of her business. “We’ve made that achievement for having good customer service and having a good reputation.”

Thinking long-term is a vital skill as business owners consider the future of their operations. But looking at the long-term successes and lessons from history is also essential.

For Thorson Heating, personable service, excellent work, and being active in the community is a mainstay. Jackie is committed to maintaining that as she moves the business into its next 80 years. She’s already started community service projects, like The Hot Mama Giveaway, and is committed to apprenticing women in the trade.

Ultimately, Jackie is committed to being herself.

“I am absolutely committed to raising awareness to women and trying to bring more women into the trades. And here, the door is wide open for women,” Jackie proclaims. “I’m just still very true to myself. I have my nails done, I have my hair done, and I’m still just rocking it. So there’s no reason why women can’t.”

Looking for more advice for growing your dream business? Want to hear more about the story of Thorson Heating? Listen to Dream, Plan, Live: the Fortress Union Bank podcast for more tips from the business experts in your community and at Fortress Union Bank.

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DLC Owner, Brent Donner

Growing up, Brent Donner didn’t know he’d be a business owner. He gravitated towards mechanics as a savvy math student with an excellent memory. Brent stuck with it, but his path turned unexpectedly into laser fabrication. Laser fabrication uses machines to vaporize metal and carve machine parts. It aligned perfectly with his talents, and through apprenticeships and self-taught experiences, he quickly became known across the country as a leading expert. The Fabricator, an industry magazine, said Brent “…gained a following… for accomplishing what few others can…”

Today, he owns DLC Manufacturing, which he founded in 2007. Brent and his team run eight laser fabricators making parts for companies like Bobcat. He travels around the country consulting other laser fabricators about optimizing their businesses.

DLC is preparing to expand its business with a $5 million renovation. Still, Brent always remembers the people who supported the company – his old bosses, the first investors, and of course, his staff. He’s eager to open his books and share his knowledge with five secrets to growth with business owners across industries.

1. Be A Lifelong Learner

Brent started working in mechanics as a teenager, fixing up cars with his uncle. His love of problem-solving and numbers furthered his career working in laser fabrication. It’s a vast industry, but Brent feels energized by learning new developments in technology.

“I just love doing what I’m doing,” he proudly says. “I love coming to work every day, and there are times I don’t even want to go home.”

Business owners are passionate about what they do and be driven by how they serve their customers. And every business changes, even year to year. Brent advises other business owners to maintain a learning mindset. You’ll grow your expertise, stay on top of your competition, build better business strategies, and find new ways to love your work.

2. Foster a Supportive Environment for Your Employees

At his first job, Brent learned from the older guys that worked on his fabrication team. When he started hiring team members, he wanted to extend that legacy and build work opportunities for people in his community.

“I will never hire anybody in this place that has any experience in this industry. You can mold shape them your way, but you give them everything you have in your head.,” Brent explains. “You don’t just give them 50%. You give them a hundred percent. And most people are holding that information back. That’s why their teams never get good.”

Brent also prioritizes benefits for his employees, like flexible vacation days, hands-off supervision, and plans for each employee to earn a six-figure salary.

“Every company I’ve worked for, there’s usually two people for one person on the floor. No, we have two people in our office, five on the floor. I was a number,” he remembers about his first full-time job in fabrication. “But now, I don’t watch what my staff does. I see it in the monthly numbers every month.”

Brent advises business owners to think about ways to nurture growth and gratitude for each employee, whether outsourced or hired employees. It’s essential to share your knowledge, trust your team for your company’s development, and reward them for their hard work.

3. Embrace Business Diversification

DLC stands for Donner Laser Consulting, which Brent worked under as a consultant. It was a roaring success. Five years after he founded DLC, he began buying laser fabricators to expand the business to manufacturing. It was a wise and critical move in the first ten years of his business. In strong years, both sides of his company would bring income for expansion. And in rough years, Brent’s consulting income would support the manufacturing side.

Today, both manufacturing and consulting contribute to DLC’s success. For any business owner, Brent recommends expanding your services to strengthen your revenue streams, especially in the first steps of starting your business.

4. Forge Connections with Your Community

DLC proudly operates in New Ulm, Minnesota, and the team loves engaging with the community. Brent has led tours and conversations with local high school students in shop classes about fabrication and manufacturing. DLC also sponsors local teams and the staff volunteers with area organizations.

There are endless benefits to building connections with your community, from creating fulfilling experiences to building collaborative networks. But for DLC, and other businesses that connect with their city, giving back is a thank-you for the support they give to their business.

5. Cultivate Meaningful Business Partnerships

Four years ago, when Brent was in the middle of expanding their facilities, they hit a wall with their financial partners. Brent began looking for a new bank that would empower DLC to make the best decisions for their growth and a collaborator for financial advising. Through Brent’s network, Fortress Union Bank emerged as a partner to foster DLC’s growth. Since Brent switched, DLC’s manufacturing and consulting business has exploded. They’re working on expanding again in the next few years.

“It’s crazy the freedom that the bank has given us,” Brent exclaims. “That’s why I’m with Fortress Union Bank and why I stay with Fortress Union Bank.”

Whether you’re looking for a new lawyer, accountant, bank, or marketing advisor, finding a partner who understands who you are and your business and stands as a reliable, highly-skilled partner in your enterprise is essential. And most importantly, if something isn’t perfect with that partner, it’s time to make a change.

Learn more about Brent’s companies:

• DLC Manufacturing & Production
• DLC Consulting

Find a Fortress Union Bank business banker near you.

Looking for more advice for growing your dream business? Want to hear more about the story of DLC? Listen to Dream, Plan, Live: the Fortress Union Bank podcast for more tips from the business experts in your community and at Fortress Union Bank.

Related Posts

• 5 tips to grow your business safely
• Finding the right insurance partner
• Buying your first business

The post 5 Tips to Unlock Growth: Business Lessons from Brent Donner, DLC Manufacturing appeared first on Fortress Union Bank.

Tom and Vicki Matuska, Matuska Taxidermy Owners

We’d like to introduce you to Matuska Taxidermy – a business that started with a passion and a dream.

Since 1974, the Iowa-based business has been delighting customers with award-winning taxidermy. Like so many businesses, Matuska Taxidermy began humbly in the owners’ basement. In the beginning, founder Tom Matuska personally performed a range of taxidermy services. Fast forward 49 years – Matuska now employs over 30 staff members in a 12,000 square foot facility.

While taxidermy services remain the heart of their business, they’ve expanded their operations to manufacture and sell taxidermy supplies along with educating others on techniques.

We recently had the opportunity to sit down with Tom and Vicki Matuska, owners of Matuska Taxidermy.

New business ideas often start with a passion

The art of preserving animals is a unique business concept but a lifelong passion for some.

“I’ve always been interested in wildlife,” said Tom. “I was fascinated with taxidermy at a young age. My mom enrolled me in my first taxidermy course through the mail when I was 13, and then as an adult I attended a taxidermy school in Wisconsin. Early on, I might have had ten fish to work on. But over time that number grew.”

“Tom’s an artist,” Vicki said. “He’s been successful because he’s constantly honing his artistic abilities and combines them with a sincere passion of both the outdoors and helping other taxidermists.”

“We don’t have unhappy customers,” said Tom. “Customers are okay with our waiting list because they know the end product will be exceptional.” The waiting list is for taxidermy services, which is now the smallest part of Matuska.

At the start, Vicki was a schoolteacher while Tom grew the business. “We had to make wise use of our resources when the business was starting out,” Vicki said. “But we always put as much as we could back into the business.”

Sharing your passion and growing the business

In addition to creating the most realistic mounts in the industry, Matuska has built an extensive product research and development program. They now manufacture high-quality taxidermy supplies that ship around the world.

“When we started out the supply and manufacturing side of the business, everything we offered would’ve fit on one wall,” Tom said. “Now, we have a couple of warehouses and customers can order from us using our catalog, or they can shop online.”

They’re also passionate about sharing their craft with others through education. Matuska leverages social media to offer Thursday Afternoon Live, a program designed to educate beginner taxidermists, but one that is attended by artisans at many levels.

Quality people, products and service are key

When asked what challenges Matuska is facing, like many businesses, it’s getting harder to find employees. “We could easily put more people to work,” Vicki said. “Our manufacturing, warehouse and shipping departments are very busy. On the plus side, as Matuska has grown, we’re able to share our success and are excited to begin offering insurance to our employees later this year.”

Matuska’s 2023 catalog is over 200 pages. “Matuska doesn’t offer the most products,” said Vicki. “We remain focused on providing the highest quality products possible. This combined with excellent service and a great team are keys to our success.”

“I believe we offer the best products anyone can buy,” added Tom. “I’m proud of our products.”

When meeting with Matuska, they were planning for upcoming taxidermy event in Wisconsin. “We attend quite a few shows. It’s a lot of work,” said Tom. “But it’s a great way to stay connected to our industry. By listening to our customers, it gives us new product ideas. This helps us meet their needs while growing the products we manufacture.”

“From the start of our relationship, Fortress Union Bank believed in us,” said Tom. “We’ve worked together to make this a partnership.”

“The team at Fortress Union Bank has been easy to work with,” said Vicki. “From the very beginning they asked, what do you need.” From banking to insurance, they’ve bent over backwards to provide great service. They’ve even brought cinnamon rolls for our team.”

Learn more about Matuska Taxidermy by visiting their website, www.matuskataxidermy.com. Or find them on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/matuskataxidermystudio and https://www.facebook.com/MatuskaTaxidermySupplyCompany.

For help turning your passion into a business, reach out to a business banker near you at Fortress Union Bank.

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Sioux Falls Outdoor Equipment Owner, Mike Kadinger

Have you considered buying a business?

In some situations, it may be an excellent opportunity that becomes available or even a new career objective. Of course, taking the leap from employee to owner, comes with a certain level of risk and increased responsibility. And, there’s a lot to take into consideration.  Mike Kadinger, owner of Sioux Falls Outdoor Equipment, was presented with an opportunity to buy the company he had worked with.

Sioux Falls Outdoor Equipment is a successful locally-owned and operated business selling new outdoor power equipment for lawn care and landscape maintenance. Committed to service excellence, they’ve grown to become one of the largest dealers in the Sioux Falls area.

Mike, a first-time business owner, purchased his company 1-1/2 years ago when the owner was ready to move on after 25 years. Encouraging others who may have an opportunity to buy their own business, here are a few of Mike’s tips and lessons that he’s learned in the last couple of years as a new owner.

Navigating increased risks as a business owner

Taking a ‘promotion’ from employee to owner doesn’t just only add to your list of responsibilities, it also greatly increases your risk. First, you’re leaving behind a stable paycheck and a 40-hour work week. Second, you have a business to figure out and now people depend on you for their livelihood. Perhaps only those who’ve made the leap themselves can truly understand what it takes. But for those who haven’t, it doesn’t take long to understand that a Business Owner wears many hats including responsibilities for: finance, marketing, technology, staffing, etc. The success or failure will rest on the decisions you make as owner – it’s a lot of pressure and should be a factor in your decision.

In addition to the obvious financial risk an owner takes, there are also relationship risks. “I’d been in this industry for a few years and worked at a company that did business with the company I eventually bought,” Mike said. “It was a little nerve wracking at first, but I spoke about the idea with friends and family, and they provided a lot of support that led me to the decision. The owner of the business I was working at also helped mentor and encourage me through the process.” Communication and trust play an important role in navigating the success of the purchase transaction and successfully running your business in the future.

Build on your company’s strengths

Sioux Falls Outdoor Equipment specializes in the sale of high-end outdoor and landscaping equipment from companies like Exmark and ECHO. “About 75% of business comes from commercial customers while the remaining 25% is residential,” Mike said. “From a sales perspective, we’re very niche focused. This isn’t huge market, but it is highly specialized.”

Sioux Falls Outdoor Equipment is known for their outstanding service quality which helped them grow to be among the top dealers in the area. To provide that level of service requires product knowledge – time and certification from companies including Exmark, ECHO, Kohler, Kawasaki, Honda, and Briggs, to name a few. “Commitment to quality is our top priority,” Mike stated.

In addition to the quality of service is timeliness. “I think a lot about the servicing work that still needs to be done. I just hired a mechanic, so that that helps a lot. I’d also like to add one more employee, but then plan to keep the business small to ensure we continue to offer top notch service.”

Be aware of what you can and cannot control

Develop good relationships with suppliers.

For any business, suppliers often provide the essentials needed to keep it running. Businesses selling physical goods know that balancing the volume of growth with available supply can be tricky.

“The biggest challenge out of my control was having enough inventory on hand to handle volume. The recent supply chain issues impacted our ability to get product to our customers,” Mike said.

While recent Covid-related inventory issues continue to improve, it only makes sense to develop strong relationships with your suppliers so they’ll go the extra mile for you if you ever need it.

Manage your time wisely.

Successful people have learned to “work smarter, not harder.”  As the leader of a business, being able to manage your time (and possibly your team members’ time) will help you run your business better and help reduce burn-out. “A lot of business owners I’ve met have talked about their challenges with not having enough time, but time management and organization have been key for me.”

Time management activities like planning ahead to prioritize tasks by importance, designating time on your calendar to complete them or building daily routines to provide structured productivity can help.

Everyone’s system is unique and it may take several attempts to find the right system that works for you. your business. The bottom line: time is money. It’s worth figuring out how to manage it.

Make time for professional development

While Mike had experience in the industry before buying his business, the need to learn different aspects of his business became apparent. If the business is just starting up, you either hire consultants, employees with these skills or learn them yourself which is where Mike started.

• Technology: From a technical perspective, he researched and installed dealer management software that will keep track of dealers and service work.
• Finances: As the owner and responsible party for finances, he looked for accounting software options and selected QuickBooks. Mike learned how to use it and now manages the financial aspects of the company.
• Marketing: In order to find new customers and grow the business, he put on his marketing hat to design the company logo, business cards, and arranges most aspects of advertising.

The key to growing your business safely is understanding there’s a limit to what you can learn yourself and when you should hire an expert.

Should I buy a business?

When asked what advice he had for others thinking about buying a business, Mike was quick to respond. “Do it. Try it, especially if you’re young,” Mike said. “If things don’t work out, there’s always time to recover. Owning a business has had a positive financial impact for my family and me.”

We asked Mike what Fortress Union Bank could do to deliver better service to Sioux Falls Outdoor Equipment. “I wouldn’t change a thing, “Mike said. “Fortress Union Bank meets our needs well.”

Reach out to Sioux Falls Outdoor Equipment for your lawn care or landscape maintenance equipment needs. You can visit them at www.sfoutdoorequipment.com.

Whether you’re just starting out as an entrepreneur, or have been around for a while, please visit check out the Fortress Union Bank locations near you to find a business banker who can help you grow your business.

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Dan Winkowitsch grew up on an Iowa farm, but he’s as globally-minded as they come. It’s a perspective he takes into leading his business, Tri-State Grain Conditioning, a grain storage equipment company based in Spirit Lake, Iowa, with products in 48 states in the U.S. and 40 countries globally.

After college, Dan moved to Ecuador to work with subsistence farmers and later worked for Coca-Cola. After twenty years in South America, Dan returned home to help his brother run Tri-State Grain Conditioning, founded by Rich Cook in 1982. Dan had an arm in every part of the business. He started building and installing equipment, then moved into sales, and then management. When his brother retired in 2009, Dan and his wife were ready to take over the company.

Tri-State Grain Conditioning’s products have a global reach. Still, Dan believes it’s important to operate the business at a local level to make it grow. Here are Dan’s five essential tips for current and future business owners to grow their enterprises successfully and safely.

1. Leverage being a small business to your advantage.

Being a small business doesn’t mean you have a small impact or revenue. It typically describes the size of a company’s team. Working with a close-knit staff means you can quickly make changes and advances in your operations in ways larger-sized companies can’t. Dan says having a smaller team that’s excellent at their jobs has been essential to their growth.

“I worked for Coca-Cola. Wow, what a great organization. But to get any decision made in Coca-Cola is eternal. I say that even though I love the product,” he explains. “In a small company, you can turn on a dime.”

This advice can be applied across industries, whether you own a coffee shop in a downtown location or you’re developing a product to change your field. This is important to consider from the beginning when you’re planning your business.

2. Small-town values go a long way in business.

Dan also says that operating as a small business means they can focus on excellent customer service. Tri-State Grain Conditioning can offer the same high-tech products as their competitors, but person-to-person communication sets them apart.

“When people call, and I don’t care if it’s a big elevator group, or if it’s a local farmer with one little bin that he’s trying to monitor, he doesn’t want to hear an answering machine or, ‘Choose line one,'” Dan says. “He wants to hear, ‘Hi, this is Dan from Tri-States. How can I help you?’ And that’s where we start. If people want to call in, they’re going to talk to a person.”

3. Change happens constantly, but you can adapt.

Since taking over Tri-State Grain Conditioning in 2009, Dan has been a part of massive changes in the agriculture and technology fields. But anticipating shifts in your industry will help you prepare for long-term success. This means reading industry news, forming connections with other business owners, and, most importantly, staying curious about the future. This also helps protect you from future risk.

“Technology changes, and technology will continue to change,” Dan affirms. “There are many things that have been invented that we no longer use. But as technology comes, you have to be willing to embrace it, but you cannot lose the human aspect of it.”

4. Know when you can’t be the expert.

Every small business owner knows they have to have their arm in everything: marketing, sales, product development, finance, tech, and more. Being open to learning is critical to owning a business for the long haul. Dan explains this process in three easy steps.

“When you approach a new area of knowledge in the beginning it’s, ‘I don’t even know what I don’t know,'” he explains. “Stage two is, ‘Now I know what I don’t know,’ and then stage three is, ‘Okay, now I know it.’ But if you start out thinking, ‘Well, I got this,’ You will find out very quickly that you don’t.”

But there is a limit to what you can learn as a business owner and effectively execute. This is his fourth essential tip for entrepreneurs who want to grow their reach, especially when it comes to growing a business securely: know the difference between when you can learn something and when you should hire an expert.

5. Build a network of specialists that you trust.

The network you build outside your business is just as essential as the team you create inside it. This means partnering with the right people to manage things that could be out of your depth, like your IT and security, branding, or, most importantly, your business finance.

“That’s the key, especially if you’re a small business and you want to be on the cutting edge,” Dan says. “Find out who those companies are out there that are doing what you want to do and who you have good synergy with, and then come together and work. But it all starts based on trust in a person.”

Looking for more advice for growing your dream business? Listen to Dream, Plan, Live: the Fortress Union Bank podcast for more tips from the business experts in your community and at Fortress Union Bank.

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Amanda Nelson, founder and owner of Blue Haven located in Sioux Falls

Amanda Nelson, founder and owner of Blue Haven in Sioux Falls, South Dakota came up with an idea, put together a plan, and assembled a team. Fast forward: her company is winning awards.

It All Starts with an Idea

Most entrepreneurs have at least one thing in common. They don’t have a lot of time. So, when Amanda agreed to a 45-minute meeting on a windy November afternoon, we jumped at the opportunity to talk with her.

Blue Haven consists of 3 rental event venues situated on 20 acres on the western side of Sioux Falls each having a unique feel. Blue Haven Barn, the original venue accommodates 300 people; the Atrium is a larger, contemporary facility that accommodates 500; and their newest addition, the Retreat, is designed to host a cozy 100 guests. The outdoor garden spaces are also pleasant and functional weather-permitting.

“As my friends began getting married, we ended up traveling all over the United States. I noticed each of the wedding venues,” Amanda said. “One site in particular was a barn near Omaha, and I thought the concept of having a wedding in a barn would work well in South Dakota. That was in 2010.” In July 2016, Blue Haven Barn opened its doors. “It took about five years for our vision to become a reality,” Amanda said.

Make the Most of Your Time

With bookings well into 2024, Amanda and her team of 30 work hard to help others make the most use of their time. “I’m usually up around 5 a.m., and arrive at work at 6 a.m.,” Amanda said. “Most days include tours of our venues, style shoots, and event planning. With six events per weekend, we also spend a lot of time turning each venue.” Turning the event includes cleaning and set up, sending linens out and frequent window washing.

“I also make updates to our websites and post on social media.” When asked who manages her website, Amanda replied, “I do. I figured out some code and I’m making updates to our sites on a daily basis. And, since many of our clients are active on social media, using it as a way to communicate has become an important part of my routine.”

Go Above and Beyond Customer Expectations

“It’s also imperative that we work hard to accommodate our clients, especially the brides. We must make the use of their valuable time to plan the event in a way that’s as simple and as stress free as possible,” Amanda said. “And on the day of the event, the time people spend at Blue Haven must be enjoyable and memorable. We provide a full-service experience that starts with an event checklist. One of the most important things on the list is, don’t forget a sweater for grandma,” Amanda laughed. “We often keep the venues cooler, otherwise when 500 people are in the room, it can get quite warm. Asking grandma to bring a sweater is one thing we can control!”

“We offer different levels of service,” Amanda said. “In the Atrium, we offer a full menu that is customizable to meet the needs of the event. In Blue Haven Barn, we offer more flexibility. Again, it’s about tailoring the experience to make the most of the guests’ time with us.

As Blue Haven has grown, so has Amanda’s family. “With a five-year-old daughter, I have less time than I did when we first opened,” Amanda said. “But I know I could leave at any time, and the staff would take better care of the place and the guests than I do. It’s important to have the right team.”

LocalEvent.com has recognized Blue Haven as the top ranked reception and events center in Sioux falls for the last four years. But Amanda doesn’t take the award for granted. “Keeping our facilities up-to-date is important,” Amanda said. “We’re currently renovating one of our ponds, and planning is underway to freshen up Blue Haven Barn.”

Financing Your Dream

“After we put our plan together to open Blue Haven Barn, we reached out to Fortress Union Bank.” Amanda said. “They helped us navigate the SBA lending process and have continued to support us as we’ve grown. If you’re thinking about starting or expanding a business, I suggest you reach out to a financing partner who can help you turn your dream into reality.”

Learn more about business financing options available with Small Business Administration (SBA) Loans or other lending solutions at Fortress Union Bank

To learn more about Amanda and the Blue Haven venues, visit www.bluehavenbarn.com or www.theatriumatbluehaven.com.

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