Jonathan Prieto, a seasoned HVAC industry professional with over a decade of experience, partnered with his wife Kate, a U.S. Air Force veteran with five years of service and two years as a military contractor, to embark on an entrepreneurial journey to establish their own HVAC business. With Jonathan’s industry knowledge and Kate’s business acumen, the couple worked to lay the starting foundation for their business. However, during the planning phase of their business plan, they both knew they needed assistance. They began searching for business advising, where they would find the Oklahoma SBDC.
After attending an online workshop from the Oklahoma SBDC, Kate sought advice on starting a business and registered for advising. There, she was contacted by Business Advisor Larry Siebert and her first session was scheduled. Larry provided invaluable assistance, helping them craft a robust business plan, navigate legal guidelines, and identify beneficial resources. By August 2022, their dream became reality in their new business Familia Mechanical, located in Edmond, Oklahoma. Kate took the helm of business administration while Jonathan led his team in the field. Committed to giving back, Familia Mechanical supports their community, veterans and veteran programs, and offer their services in English and Spanish.
“Thanks to [Business Advisor Larry Siebert’s] expert guidance, we were able to navigate the tricky waters of business planning, financial forecasting, and market analysis with a sense of humor and optimism,” says Kate Prieto. “By the time we launched, we felt not just prepared but empowered… Their support was instrumental in our early success, and I credit a large part of our positive startup experience to their insightful and targeted advice.”
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