Poley Creative: Lights, Camera, Profits!
Poley Creative, an educational video production company based in vibrant Portland, Oregon, is on a mission to make education engaging through video content. Since its start in January 2019, Poley Creative has been a leader in creativity and innovation by bridging educational gaps using the power of video.
Scaling with Confidence and Guided Support
Growth often comes with challenges; Poley Creative's primary hurdle was growing the business while maintaining excellent client support. Co-owners Michael Poley and Elizabeth Kozup recognized their strengths in scaling creativity (hiring contract video producers, writers, editors, motion designers, 3D modelers, and audio engineers to execute projects) but needed to streamline other vital aspects of the business.
Acknowledging the importance of structured guidance and support, Poley Creative sought assistance from the PCC SBDC. Poley Creative's journey with PCC SBDC has been enriched through participation in the Business Builders and Advanced Small Business Management training programs, which Michael calls "a mastermind group." The PCC SBDC community, with the help of individuals like business advisors Kim Allchurch-Flick and Jackie B. Peterson, provided invaluable assistance in areas such as:
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Marketing Strategies: Enhancing online presence and effectively showcasing expertise and projects to attract more work.
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Business Management: Transitioning from hands-on work to efficient review processes and enhancing overall business management.
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Streamlining Processes: Refining and documenting processes to streamline operations and increase efficiency.
- Financial Guidance: Understanding financial products and negotiating better payment terms with clients.
Michael says, "With the support of the SBDC, we were able to negotiate better terms with our clients, we got paid more quickly...and learned about different ways to borrow money."
Towards a Bright Future
In 2023, Poley Creative stands on the verge of a new phase of growth. Their journey serves as an encouragement to other aspiring entrepreneurs. Elizabeth encourages other small business owners saying, "Don't be afraid because you don't know how to do something. There will be someone out there to support you, you just have to seek it out."
Embrace the guidance and expertise the PCC SBDC offers, and watch your business flourish. The future is bright, and with the right support, success is within reach!
Ready to learn more about how the PCC Small Business Development Center can help you start or grow your business?
START HERE.
Programs and services are provided to the public on a non-discriminatory basis. Language assistance services are available for limited English proficient individuals. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Please contact us at 971-722-5080 or sbdc@pcc.edu, to request accommodations. Oregon Small Business Development Centers are funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration, and the Oregon Business Development Department.
