Public Service Announcement Features How SBDC Services Connect Clients with Lenders

In this PSA, NTC Language Services co-founder Stephanie MacIntosh, Metro New York’s Small Business Person of the Year, shares her journey with the SBDC and their successful funding match with Pursuit.

Securing the right funding and navigating the many options is one of the most challenging tasks for small business owners. It’s not just about finding any funder; it’s about finding the right one.

“We realized we didn’t just need legal support; we needed financial support, marketing, and help with our business plan,” says Stephanie. “When we met with Gifty, she advised us to talk to Pursuit and also connected us with accountants who specialized in working with businesses like ours.”

Gifty went beyond offering advice. She made a key connection with Pursuit, a funding partner whose products and culture were a perfect fit for NTC’s goals. SBDC advisors go beyond traditional services—they analyze different funding options from various lenders to advise on potential fits for each client.

Sonya Smith, NYSBDC State Director, emphasized this approach: “Whether it’s Stony Brook or any other center, our goal is to bring in resources and be that one-stop shop. Success means different things to everyone, and we’re here to help build that pathway.”

In addition to their wide range of services, SBDCs have extensive knowledge about funders and capital opportunities. Advisors carefully prepare clients for funding opportunities, ensuring they connect with lenders who align with their vision.

Chris Levy, President & CEO of Pursuit, added, “NTC is a great example of the loan opportunities we offer. We’ve worked with them on several loan products, and Pursuit even uses their translation services to meet the needs of our diverse client base.”

The SBDC strives to build relationships and networks for all small businesses across New York State. In this case, the successful collaboration between the SBDC and NTC Language Services resulted in a funding match with Pursuit, enabling significant growth for NTC.

“When the SBDC connected us with Pursuit, we had no idea how much our lives would change. Now, we have contracts statewide and beyond. Looking back, I wish we had connected sooner,” MacIntosh reflected.