Kerp's Service Center | Application Preview
Kerp's Service Center is seeking government grants to enhance its operations and community involvement. The funding will be allocated towards addressing outstanding bills, facilitating repairs for the building and vehicles, upgrading tools and software, and refreshing staff uniforms.
Their business plan focuses on modernizing the shop with new software and technology to compete with well-funded dealerships. They aim to create a dedicated space for detailing services and are committed to community engagement through initiatives such as monthly car-related educational classes and seasonal events like a Trunk-or-Treat for kids. As a woman in the auto industry, the owner emphasizes the goal of fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for women and younger individuals when visiting repair shops.
The application outlines the business's dedication to supporting the local community, having taken over the shop two years ago to improve employee treatment and benefits compared to the previous owners. Despite progress, there are still areas needing attention.
Kerp's Service Center competes with local repair shops, dealerships, and online alternatives. Their competitive edge lies in reasonable pricing, transparency in communication with clients, and personalized services such as farm calls and vehicle pick-up and drop-off. The business aims to ensure customer safety and confidence in the services provided.
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General Information
Business Registration Number: 88-1705790
Location: Cascade, IA, United States
Length of Operation: 1-5
Number of Employees: 1-10 Employees
Annual Gross Income: $250k to $500k
Annual Gross Expense: $100k to $250k
Open to Loans: YES
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Funding Usage
Get ahead on bills. Some building/vehicle repairs. Updating tools and software. Update uniforms.
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Business Plan
I am looking into new software and technology to bring our shop up to date and stay that way. We have to compete with dealerships that have more funding and can afford the latest technology. We need a designated space for detailing and I would love to expand on that. Being part of a small-town community, I am trying to stay involved with the community in various ways. This includes a monthly "car class", short educational gatherings about various car related topics to help get a better understanding of your car/repairs. As a woman in the auto industry, it's hard to not feel intimidated at times. I'm trying to help other women and younger adults feel comfortable and confident coming into a repair shop. I also organize a Trunk-or-Treat during Halloween for the kids. It is important to me to establish a positive and inclusive public image while maintaining the best service possible. We are a small Iowa business helping to support our community and everyone in it. We recently purchased this shop 2 years ago, after my husband had worked here for 10 years. The previous owners were not involved with the community and were not the best bosses to their employees over the years. We worked hard to implement an all-around better pay and benefits package for them. Taking care of our employees is always my first priority. We still have a few things to fix though and we are definitely on the right track!
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Self Identified Competition
Other repair shops in town. Dealerships. The internet. We try to keep our prices as competitive as possible. We take time to explain issues to our clients and be completely upfront with them. We offer farm calls to all of our ag clients. We offer vehicle pick up and drop off in town. We want everyone to drive safe and feel confident they are getting the help they need.
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Contact Applicant
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