The Central Texas College (CTC) Students In Free Enterprise (SIFE) Team recently launched a new project to help some local businesses owners expand and increase their customer base. “Operation Step Up” was designed to assist a couple of small businesses on SIFE’s expansion project list generate a profit by revamping their business strategies.

Initially, SIFE helped Michele’s Floral and Gifts based in Copperas Cove. Team members assisted the local business in its efforts to develop a new business plan, create a more effective marketing campaign and improve the place of business. The result is an expansion of its’ current operation by opening a kiosk in the main Post Exchange (PX) on Fort Hood. A grand opening/ribbon cutting ceremony for Michele’s Floral and Gifts kiosk is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Monday, September 17.

“Due to the economy, Michele’s, like a lot of businesses in the area, has seen a decrease in profits and customers,” noted Taryn Ellis, SIFE project executive director. “We decided to help her completely rebrand her business by developing new business and marketing plans, utilizing social media and redesigning the structure of the business.”

To that end, SIFE assisted Michele’s Floral secure the kiosk space in the PX with the idea of expanding the customer base and exposing the business name and services to the broader community. During the ribbon cutting ceremony, SIFE members will hand out money-saving coupons to customers.

“Operation Step Up is one of several new projects we’ve undertaken this semester,” explained Ellis. “The purpose is to help local entrepreneurs not lose sight of their dreams of owning a profitable business. “Sometimes small businesses need to take a second look at their strategies and find new ways to advertise and grow the business. We are glad to offer a fresh set of eyes and ideas to these business owners.”

In addition to Michele’s Floral, we will look to assist Fins and Flowers Pet Shop in Copperas Cove along with a few other businesses on our expansion list.