Mark and Becky Latour
Mark LaTour contacted the Northeast Minnesota SBDC to receive consulting assistance a number of years ago. At that time he and a partner wanted to discuss starting an HVAC/sheet metal fabrication business. They were young ambitious men ready to start their entrepreneurial journey.
After a period of time Mark’s partner decided not to pursue this venture and he was left without a business partner. Mark however had a life partnership. His wife Becky, had a full-time job as an accounting controller and owned a tax preparation business. They decided Becky would leave her job so that husband and wife could start what is now Sheet Metal Solutions, an HVAC contractor and metal fabricating shop.
The SBDC helped the LaTour’s on their entrepreneurial journey by assisting with developing financial projections, a business plan, and advising on the different types and entities in the lending process. Business consultant, Curt Walczak, encouraged them to keep going and became a sounding board for Mark and Becky as they experienced these trials. From finding a building, financing problems, and navigating the world of business regulations Mark and Becky have overcome the ups and downs of starting a business.
We are so very proud of this! Our business consultant and the Northland SBDC [previously UMD Center for Economic Development] have been nothing short of a blessing to us.
“The SMS team’s passion truly shows in their work at Tavern on the Hill. Their ability to get things done quickly and professionally is second to none.” –Cullen Flaherty, Vice President of Operations, Black Woods Group, Restaurants & Catering
Mark and Becky are honest, hard-working, and tenacious in making their dream come true. They reflect the culture and work ethic that is inherent in the Duluth community. They have worked hard to start and grow their business and still make time for each other and their two young boys. They can be admired for their values and work ethic.
Becky LaTour expressed her gratitude, “We are so very proud of this! Our business consultant Curt Walczak and the Norhtland SBDC [previously UMD Center for Economic Development] have been nothing short of a blessing to us. It’s been an interesting (almost) 3 years as we’ve learned how to navigate the world of business ownership and purchasing a building. Every day we continue to learn and grow as a team. Thank you to all of our friends, family, and customers who have been there to support us. Words cannot express our gratitude.”