Keith Steier founded Knockout Renovation in 1992 to simplify home renovations in Manhattan with full-service project management. Facing a decline after 25 years, he sought help from the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) to revitalize the business. With advisor Stephanie Peschiera, Steier improved finances and boosted sales through strategic marketing. His resilience, coupled with SBDC support, is helping Knockout Renovation stabilize and prepare for future growth.
Assistance Provided
SBDC Advisor:
Stephanie Peschiera
Recognizing the need for strategic support, Keith Steier reached out to the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) in 2017, where he was matched with advisor Stephanie Peschiera. Together, they crafted a turnaround strategy focused first on financial stability, cutting expenses, and improving efficiencies. Once the business was stabilized, they shifted their focus to growth, working on generating more sales leads and conversions through promotions, refined marketing materials, sales communication improvements, target market analysis (with SBDC Research Network), and website updates. These efforts led to a record-breaking year in 2018, with 26 sales—almost doubling from the previous year.
When COVID-19 hit, Steier and the SBDC adapted their approach to focus on survival. Through SBDC’s guidance, he accessed SBA relief funds, including PPP and EIDL loans, as well as ERC funding. Steier’s resilience, tenacity, and openness to new tactics have been key to navigating these years. With continued SBDC support, Knockout Renovation is now finding stability and building the foundation for its next chapter.
Knockout Renovation
Keith Steier launched Knockout Renovation in 1992 in Manhattan, NY, with the goal of simplifying the renovation process for homeowners by managing design, permits, and product procurement, all backed by exceptional project management and customer service. His innovative approach quickly resonated with customers, allowing him to expand into a showroom and establish himself as a trusted name in Manhattan. Knockout Renovation gained further recognition when popular television shows like Rachel Ray and Queer Eye sought Steier for his high-quality, reliable design and build services. Steier thrived in the fast-paced, challenging world of home renovation, building a reputation and a loyal customer base.
By 2017, however, after almost 25 years in business, Knockout Renovation faced new challenges. Increasing costs, heightened competition, and fluctuations in the housing market had caused a steady decline. Steier found himself at a critical juncture, recognizing the need to pivot to sustain the business. The COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020 presented yet another obstacle, paralyzing New York City and stalling his business’s momentum. Despite these challenges, Steier, with the support of his dedicated 25-member team, persevered through uncertain years, navigating Knockout Renovation into a new chapter.
** Our success stories focus on the work the SBDC has done with our small business clients and does not constitute an expressed or implied endorsement by the NYSBDC of the company and/or their products and services.
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