Mike Cambron of Fayetteville started out in law enforcement but soon decided that he could better serve the community as a locksmith, helping people on the front end of a problem.
After several years working for others, Cambron was ready to work for himself. He contacted Darren Gibbs, a local small business attorney, for advice on starting his own locksmith and safe business.
Gibbs referred him to the Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center at the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville.
Cambron began consulting with the center’s Lori Lieblong in June 2022. She guided him through the process of determining startup costs, creating a three-year financial workbook, and developing a business plan.
Lieblong also connected him to FORGE Community Loan Fund, where he obtained the necessary capital to launch his business.
JR’s Lock and Safe, LLC was up and running by summer’s end. Cambron purchased his equipment and truck, created a website, set up his social media platforms, and had business cards in hand.
Lieblong continued her assistance by helping him learn the many administrative tasks associated with starting the business. When he found his most challenging management issue to be marketing, she directed him to the center’s online library of marketing resources.
“Getting advertisement, getting my name out there and what my business can do for the community was a challenge,” Cambron acknowledged.
He said the best lesson he learned is to follow the advice you are given.
“You cannot overstate the importance of doing your research and asking questions before you get started,” he said.
Mike is also quick to recommend Lieblong and ASBTDC.
“Lori has been great to work with throughout this process. I’ve suggested to others looking to start a business to reach out to ASBTDC because of my interaction with Lori,” said Cambron. “She is very knowledgeable and assisted me greatly with questions and answers.”
“Mike is the kind of client that does his homework, asks the right questions, and follows through, step-by-step,” said Lieblong.
Visit jrslocksafe.com to learn more about JR’s services.