Tasha Garner, owner of Unique Advisor, a developing consulting firm targeting sectors like healthcare, financial technology, social services, and government contracts, discovered NBIC through her involvement in the Hope Operations Program. This connection led her to NBIC’s Foundations course, which profoundly transformed her approach to entrepreneurship. Garner sincerely appreciated the course, noting, “It was awesome. I thought I knew a lot already, but I learned so much more. It was very transparent.” She highlighted the invaluable guidance from mentors like Mister Harvey and Anne Marie, who were knowledgeable and patient, encouraging interactive participation and questions.

Garner credits the program with honing her skills in defining and presenting her business niche. Feedback from the sessions taught her the strategic placement of her sales pitch, with advice like, “When you’re selling yourself, do that in the beginning instead of the middle or the end of your pitch.” This feedback was pivotal, helping her refine how she approached potential clients and presented her services. Furthermore, Garner found the collaborative environment of peer learning enriching. “Because all of us come from different places, but with the same relative goals, we had so much in common and so much to share about starting a business,” she reflected.

Among the many resources NBIC provided, legal advice was particularly impactful for Garner. The opportunity to consult directly with legal professionals was instrumental in ensuring her business operations were compliant and well-informed. “It was a blessing for them to offer that, to be able to set up performance and talk to someone,” she said, recognizing the crucial role of legal knowledge in business management.

Participating in the program alongside her 20-year-old son was a unique aspect of Garner’s journey and led to a significant mindset shift for both of them. This experience reinforced the value of lifelong learning and mutual support, enhancing her and her son’s personal and professional growth.

Garner recommends NBIC to any aspiring entrepreneur, emphasizing the program’s ability to provide structure and clarity for emerging businesses. “I say do it. Do it for yourself. It will be so rewarding in the end,” she advises. She is grateful for the profound impact NBIC has had on her professional path and hopeful about continuing her growth trajectory. Looking to the future, Garner aspires for Unique Advisor to become well-established, serving a broad client base and significantly increasing its revenue. She is committed to supporting other small business owners by sharing the insights and tools she has acquired, underscoring her belief in the power of accessible entrepreneurial education.