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My successes.

Business Description: Blake’s business, which now operates under the name Veterans Integrity Exteriors, specializes in repairing homes that that have been damaged by Minnesota’s weather. His customers have come to rely on him for his knowledge of building codes, his ability to deal with insurance companies and his personal integrity. In fact, referrals have become an important part of his sales. Since beginning work with SCORE, Blake has significantly built his business. His sales in 2014 far exceeded his volume for the previous two years. With this success, Blake was able to get an SBA loan that will provide much needed working capital for his planned growth.

The Future:  With timely updates to his business plan, Blake plans to focus even more on roofing repairs and replacements. This specialty offers the best volume potential along with the best cash flow. And, it’s a category in need of integrity. Veterans Integrity Exteriors can fill that need.

How SCORE helped.

Blake first learned of SCORE while doing research on the SBA website. He made an application for free mentoring and was assigned to Bill Collette. Bill’s background in contracting proved to be extremely valuable to Blake. Bill suggested that focus would be very important and that the best way to acquire and fine-tune that focus was to do a business plan. Through this process, Blake learned the difference between a scattered, haphazard approach to his business and a truly focused approach.

See the PDF file for this Success Story.

What's great about my mentor?

“Bill gave me the critical insight I needed to focus on my business plan and become a better entrepreneur.  Thanks Bill!” – Blake Rothnem, Owner.

How Did Your Business Get Started?

Problem: Homeowners in Minnesota face the never-ending possibility of damage caused by weather conditions such as hail, heavy snow, tornadoes, high winds and torrential rains. The potential for weather-related damage is always present regardless of the season.                   

Challenge:  Finding a reliable contractor to work with when damage occurs is difficult and can result in a frustrating and costly experience for the homeowner.

Solution:  Provide home repair and renovation services based on the guiding principal of integrity. That’s what Blake Rothnem decided to do in 2005. The concept is simple but effective: Provide consistently superior service that exceeds homeowner expectations.