The Dog-Eared Page
The SBDC helps launch a dream in Danville
$25,000 grant from Danvilleâs River District Associationâs Dream Launch program.
Catherine Carter turned the page on a new career when she started a book club to help coworkers deal with the pandemic. Now, with help from the Longwood SBDC and Danvilleâs Dream Launch program, she has her own bookstore, The Dog-Eared Page.
It started with a dream to open a place for book clubs to meet and buy books. When Catherine learned about Danvilleâs Dream Launch program, it seemed like fate.
âI contacted Kelvin Perry, Danvilleâs project manager for economic development, and he encouraged me to apply,â Catherine relates.
The Dream Launch program, sponsored by Danvilleâs River District Association, features a six-week bootcamp and grant money presented to winners of a business pitch competition.
âLin Hite, Kelvin Perry, and Michael Duncan from the SBDC all taught classes,â Catherine explains. âLin, my mentor, helped me with a business plan and pitch for the competition. Throughout the whole experience I felt nothing but support.â
That preparation paid off. The pitch Catherine presented was awarded a $25,000 grant that enabled her to launch her dream.
âDanville hadnât had a bookstore since I was in elementary school,â she relates.
The bookstoreâs location on Main Street in Danvilleâs downtown revitalization district was also a plus for Catherine.
âItâs awesome to be part of whatâs happening downtown,â she adds. âItâs rewarding to see people coming back downtown.â
In addition to the grant, Catherine received a loan from a local bank.
âThe River District decided I needed more capital and connected me with American National Bank,â she says. âI didnât expect to get support from bankers!â
Catherine continues to be amazed by support from the community.
âDuring our grand opening the store was packed,â Catherine recalls. âItâs a day Iâll never forget.â
Now open six months, The Dog-Eared Page is thankful for continued SBDC support.
âSBDC consultants still call and come by,â Catherine explains. âWhen I first opened, Lin Hite prepared me for lower volume months ahead. Due to that advice the shop isnât struggling now.â
Catherine readily recommends the SBDC.
âEven after the doors of a business are open, the SBDC is there to help you,â she concludes. âIâm eternally grateful for that support.â