Turning Business Complexity Into Clarity
We clear the path so you can focus on your vision
Through Every Step of Growth
Small Business Start Up Solutions is a consulting service for aspiring and growing entrepreneurs navigating the complex business landscape of business ownership. We guide you through the interconnected challenges that can make or break your success.
Business Strategy & Planning
We translate your vision into a comprehensive roadmap that resonates with lenders, investors, and partners. Our customizable business plans communicate the true value of your concept while addressing the critical questions stakeholders need answered.
Financial Projections & Analysis
We deliver robust financial models including startup costs, three-year cash flow projections, balance sheets, P&L statements, break-even analysis, and operational budgets—giving you clarity on the numbers that drive your success.
Loan Processing & Financing Preparation
We guide you through the loan application maze with insider knowledge of what lenders look for. From SBA loans to conventional financing, we prepare your package to meet lender-preferred metrics and strengthen your approval odds.
Site Selection & Lease Negotiation
Location can make or break your business. We provide traffic analysis, accessibility assessments, and demographic insights to identify optimal sites. Plus, we offer negotiation strategies to secure favorable lease terms that protect your bottom line.
Commercial Real Estate Services
Our specialized real estate expertise includes accurate property valuations, financing assistance, and comprehensive location analysis—ensuring you make informed decisions on your most significant business investment.
Bilingual Business Services (Spanish & English)
As a bilingual organization, we support entrepreneurs in both languages, removing barriers so Spanish-speaking clients receive the same clear, culturally aware guidance.
“The Small Business Start Up Solutions team provided critical, timely guidance in shaping our business plan and assisting me in crafting well founded, supporting financial projections. Mike’s insight into the SBA loan process brought clarity to the deal and solidified the investor group’s financial commitment. As a result, Hackamore Brewery was able to secure a loan well below our projected interest rate bringing financial flexibility to the project.”
Zac Gleason
Founder and CEO | Hackamore Brewing Company
“SBSS assisted me in financing the acquisition of El Patron restaurant. Mike’s team research and analysis of the population density/mix, traffic flows and competitive landscape were key in acquiring necessary funds to complete the transaction. After a disruptive 2020, El Patron is restaurant is growing once again.”
Oscar Castro
CEO | Patron Restaurant
“I’m Brandon Gunderson, and I’ve had the privilege of working with Mike Ricart over the past four months. Mike has been instrumental in bringing my vision for Pasta Buckets and Urban Spoon to life. His expertise helped me secure a small business loan, find a building, and set up everything from my business plan to budgeting and cost analysis. Mike’s honest and informative approach made a tough journey manageable. I’ll continue to rely on his support and knowledge.”
“Mike Ricart has been instrumental in advising Maskvrade, showcasing incredible flexibility to meet our evolving needs. His proactive approach to sharing timely grant opportunities significantly bolstered our financial strategy. With Mike’s expert guidance, we’ve confidently navigated complex financial landscapes. His dedication and insight are invaluable, making him a crucial partner in our journey toward early-stage funding and success.”
Small Business Workshops
Our workshops serve both startup and existing businesses, covering banking, social media marketing, Al, and financial projections. Each session is customizable to meet the sponsoring organization’s unique client needs, ensuring relevant, actionable, and results-driven learning experiences.
- Understanding what it takes to be a successful entrepreneur
- Exploring the most popular and viable small business opportunities
- Choosing the right business structure for your venture
- Understanding the risks and strategies of leasing commercial real estate
- Accessing capital and navigating funding options
- Creating realistic 3-year financial projections
- Leveraging social media and AI tools for business growth
Mike Ricart is a seasoned small business consultant dedicated to helping businesses thrive. With over 30 years of experience in the retail industry, where he rose to the positions of Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Mike shifted his focus to the small business community as a volunteer for the SBA-funded SCORE organization. During his time with SCORE, Mike diligently worked with early-stage businesses, offering guidance on various aspects of their operations. Additionally, he served as a liaison to the Hispanic population in the Twin Cities through the Latin Economic Development Council in Saint Paul, Minnesota, broadening his impact on an underserved community.
In January 2022, encouraged and supported by family and friends, Mike founded his own small business consulting firm, Small Business Start Up Solutions (SBSUS). The primary mission of SBSUS is to help entrepreneurs overcome obstacles to creation and growth. True to its name, Small Business Start Up Solutions provides a range of resources designed to support the interests of small business entrepreneurs.
Contact us
Please contact us with questions about our services.