Regional Entrepreneurial Network

This network was created to build a system of support for current and potential business owners. Networking and mentoring relationships are vital to all business owners. Business owners need someone to talk to who can relate to the daily issues they face, walks in their shoes everyday and can offer insight from an outside point of view.

Whether you are in the thinking, start-up, growing or transitioning stage, consider connecting with a fellow southwest Minnesota entrepreneur. The following people welcome your calls, e-mails, questions and conversations about your business.

Roberta and Kelly Wyatt, The Daily Grind, Marshall
Roberta moved to Marshall in 2002 from California where she was inspired working for an entrepreneur who owned a specialty food business. In 2004, she had the opportunity to purchase The Daily Grind and bring her sister to Minnesota to form a partnership. Five years later, they have a thriving business that includes monthly evening dinners and gourmet catering.  Their first words of advice to potential business owners are to have a plan in place. "You have to have a business plan laying out your plans step-by-step that includes future goals," Kelly says.  “Find a similar business and work in it to make sure you completely understand what you will be getting into," advises Roberta.  Contact Roberta and Kelly at dailygrind@iw.net or 507-537-9565.

Joyce Dass, Wooden Diamond Bed & Breakfast, Lake Benton
About 15 years ago, Joyce had a dream of running a bed and breakfast. By utilizing local and state resources, she made her dream a reality and wants to share that experience with others. Her energy, enthusiasm and talent has lead her through a similar process to share her artwork through another business.  Contact Joyce at joy@itctel.com or 507-368-4305.

Jim Fahey, Fahey Sales, Auctioneers & Appraisers and Broker Associate with Edina Realty, Hutchinson
Jim is a second generation entrepreneur. His knowledge in this industry will be of value to anyone looking for some direction and feedback.  Contact Jim at jimfahey@faheysales.com or at 320-234-3510.

Jim Keul, Page 1 Printers, Slayton
Jim grew up in the printing industry learning from his dad, a newspaper editor. Jim stayed within the communications industry owning many different businesses. He has 36 years experience as a newspaper publisher and more than 45 years of printing experience.  As owner of Page 1 Printers, Jim is willing to share his knowledge and expertise.  Jim has also worked as an economic development director in southwest Minnesota and understands the process and steps entrepreneurs need to take to follow their dreams of business ownership.  Contact Jim at jkeul@page1printers.com or 507-836-6540.

Grey Raymo, Executive Vice-President, First State Bank Southwest, Worthington
Greg is a life-long resident of southwest Minnesota who constantly works to improve businesses in the region, especially assisting an increasingly diverse population of entrepreneurs.  Greg's perspective is of great value to entrepreneurs at any stage of the business process. "Entrepreneurs have a high level of anxiety when they visit their banker," Greg says. "The first thing I do is put them at ease by setting aside the paperwork and listening to them talk about their dream."  Contact Greg at graymo@firststatebanksw.com or 507-376-9747.

Becky Parker, Senior Financial Advisor and Certified Financial Planner, Ameriprise Financial, Ortonville
Since her first entrepreneurial venture in 1975, Becky has continually worked to improve and grow a succcessful business.  "Don't be afraid to ask for help and keep asking until you get what you need," Becky says. "Southwest Minnesota has so much to offer and if we all think regionally, beyond our backyards, the opportunities are there for us."  Contact Becky at becky.k.parker@ampf.com or 320-839-3030 ext. 303.

Adolfo Avila Jr., Tracy
Adolfo moved to Minnesota with a dream of having his own business. He immediately recognized a need in the Hispanic communities of southwest Minnesota for an interpreter to guide Spanish-speaking residents through various community and personal processess. To fulfill this need, Adolfo opened Blue Globe Translations in Marshall and Worthington. Through this business, he began helping others like him who also wanted to start a business to meet the needs of their culture. Adolfo eventually sold his business and started working as a business consultant for Hispanic business owners.  Contact Adolfo at adolfoavilajr@yahoo.com or 507-629-8159.

Amy Wagner and Emily Zwach, American Financial Partners, Canby and Marshall
Amy and Emily both have a financial background and an entrepreneurial upbringing. In 2004, they saw a niche that needed to be filled. A partnership was a natural fit and American Financial Partners was formed.  "Utilizing local resources and surrounding yourself with good people is important," Emily says. "When starting a business, you really need to understand your industry and build a network."  Contact Amy at amy@financewithafp.com or Emily at emily@financewithafp.com or call 507-929-1174.