LSBDC assistance helped the Sylvestris achieve their life-long dream of owning and operating a family clinic and create 19 jobs in Northeast Louisiana.
On March 29, 2010, Terri and Joe Sylvestri achieved their life-long dream when they opened Rayville Family Clinic. The Sylvestris always wanted to start a medical clinic where they could provide better quality healthcare at a low cost to the people of Northeast Louisiana. Terri, a nurse practioner, has over twenty-one years experience in nursing. Her husband, Joe, has twenty-two years of experience in other related healthcare fields. The couple decided to combine their experience in medicine and set out to find ways to open a health clinic. Recognizing their lack of business expertise, the couple contacted the LSBDC at University of Louisiana at Monroe for assistance with a business plan to start their health clinic. The Sylvestris had already acquired a facility but needed financing to furnish the building and purchase necessary supplies and equipment. They went to the center with a dream of owning and operating a medical clinic and needed help to convert that dream into a reality. They wanted to offer healthcare to clients of all ages. The clinic currently provides services to Medicare, Medicaid, commercial insurance and private pay clients. The clinic also offers KidMed and vaccines for children. The LSBDC at UL Monroe helped the Sylvestris write a business plan, developed a budget, and complete an SBA loan application. The center also helped them complete a three-year financial projection for the business. With LSBDC assistance, the Sylvestris were able to secure an SBA 7(a) loan and create 19 jobs in Northeast Louisiana.
SOURCE:
http://www.lsbdc.org
