Amanda Looney is the wife of an air force veteran, mother of two, and the owner of “Let’s Get Personal,” a home-based business that offers customers unique, and often customized designs via t-shirts, tumblers, face masks, blankets, and key chains to name a few. Amanda started her business without considering the importance of planning and utilizing important business tools. Two years into business ownership, she realized that she needed the support of a resource provider.
After connecting with an ONABEN Team leader, Amanda entered the Beyond the Boots Program. This program, funded by the SBA’s Office of Veteran’s Business Development, is geared toward the specific needs of Military Veteran’s/service men and women and their spouses. Understanding that this is a unique dynamic, ONABEN has created training programs and resources that will directly impact this group.
Amanda was the recipient of one of ONABEN’s first websites for small businesses through the Beyond the Boots program. The creation of this website allowed her to showcase her custom products, and to make her more accessible to a broader customer base. Amanda has since learned how to take product pictures, keep inventory current on her website and to manage inventory more efficiently.
This program has had a positive impact on Amanda’s business and has given her the skills necessary to be successful. It has also shaped the image of her small business and given it a presence and legitimacy that was previously lacking.
“I am definitely the definition of boot-strapping. I found something that I enjoyed doing, and dove right in. I even quit my job. But, in the last year, I knew it was time to do things a little differently. I am so grateful for ONABEN and the opportunity that they have provided me to grow my business.” -Amanda Looney
