From the beginning, Tricycle Studios has had a specialty in medical device and diagnostics, biotech, and pharmaceutical marketing. By 2007, the company had grown to 11 employees to meet the demands of their growing global client base. By 2008, Tricycle Studios revenue was falling, so the founders returned to the FSBDC at USF for assistance in surviving the worst recession since the "Great Depression".

According to Tona, "The consultation we received from Jim Parrish [growth acceleration statewide manager and consultant] at the FSBDC at USF was priceless. If not for his expertise and recommendations, we wouldn't be here today. He helped us through making tough decisions, focusing our efforts on the medical industry and provided us the tools to not only survive, but also grow. Beginning in 2008, we have been meeting with Jim quarterly to discuss our progress. Since then, we have had a 30-percent increase in sales. We have also reached 15 employees."

"The FSBDC at USF will perform a detailed business health assessment and a financial analysis of Tricycle Studios to assess its growth potential," says Jim. "Then, the FSBDC at USF will work with Tricycle Studios to develop and implement strategies to position the company to achieve its growth objectives."

Through the Florida SBDC’s no-cost growth acceleration services, companies can develop sustainable growth strategies in key business areas, including marketing and business development, cash flow management, strategic planning, market/industry research, as well as capital access. To qualify for the services the company must have growth as a goal, be operating for at least three years, have annual revenue ranging from $500,000 to $10 million, and employ five or more workers. Florida SBDC growth acceleration consultants are readily available statewide to provide assistance to qualified emerging and growth businesses that are looking to advance.

For 35 years, the Florida SBDC Network has nourished a statewide partnership between higher education and economic development organizations, dedicated to providing emerging and established business owners with management and technical assistance, enabling overall growth and increased profitability for the businesses and economic prosperity for the state. In 2010, Florida SBDCs helped its clients acquire $87 million in capital for business formation and expansion; create/retain 14,407 jobs; enjoy sales growth worth $116 million; open 786 businesses; and win contract awards worth $406 million. To learn more about the Florida SBDC Network or to find a SBDC near you, visit www.FloridaSBDC.org or call 1.866.737.7232.

The Florida SBDC Network, a statewide service network of 39 centers, is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration, hosted by the University of West Florida and accredited through the national Association of SBDCs.