Anastasiia was one of many awardees honored at ASBDC's STAR Reception, hosted at the famous Grand Ole’ Opry, in Nashville, TN. This event brings together top SBDC professionals from across America to celebrate the exceptional contributions made by SBDC State Stars to the small business community.

On Monday, September 11, 2023, the Maryland Business Opportunity Center (MBOC) hosted its inaugural Showcase, where Program Director Dr. Dana Hauanio-Lore and MBOC consultants thanked U.S. Senators Ben Cardin (D-Md.) and Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) for their role in supporting MBOC's mission to assist underserved entrepreneurs in Maryland. The event not only highlighted the pivotal role played by the distinguished senators but also shone a spotlight on MBOC's successes and diverse clientele. 

In addition to Senators Cardin and Van Hollen, the Showcase was attended by the University of Maryland President Dr. Daryll Pines and Dr. Dean Chang, Associate Vice President for Innovation & Entrepreneurship and Economic Development, Small Business Association's Steve Umberger, Maryland SBDC Executive Lora Brown, as well as SBDC staff and community partners.

For more information about MBOC and its initiatives, please click here.

The Maryland Business Opportunity Center (MBOC) addresses the challenges that preclude significant

Annapolis, MD – Wednesday, August 30, 2023 – Heather Lamb, the visionary entrepreneur behind BluZone LLC, has achieved a remarkable success story by overcoming significant hurdles in launching their business with the invaluable assistance of Dr. Candace Pruett from the Maryland Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and a VOLT loan through Anne

Arundel Economic Development Corporation (AAEDC).

Heather Lamb, is a registered nurse and wellness expert with nearly ten years in the healthcare

sector and decades of prior management experience. Heather was previously a Wound Nurse

for MVS Wound Care and Hyperbarics (formerly Hyperheal Hyperbarics Wound Center).

Heather is passionate about providing holistic, accessible, comforting care.

BluZone LLC provides hyperbaric therapy oxygen therapy (HBOT) which involves breathing

pure oxygen in a pressurized space called a hyperbaric chamber. Hyperbaric therapy was first

introduced in 1861, when the first functioning HBOT chamber was used within the United States

to treat nervous disorders. Since that time, this therapy has grown to become one of the most

promising and upcoming treatment modalities in the United States and worldwide. HBOT is now

being used increasingly for both medical and non-medical reasons. Some of the non-medical

reasons include, but are not limited to, healing, recovery, swelling, inflammation, scar tissue

repair, increased brain function, longevity, and athletic performance. Anti-aging treatments,

especially those focused on telomere health, have become exceedingly popular as the median

age of the American population continues to grow.

When Heather reached out to the SBDC, they were faced with a series of challenges that

threatened to impede the realization of their entrepreneurial dreams. Determined to transform

their vision into reality, Heather sought out the expertise and guidance of the SBDC through a

referral by Anita Dewling at the AAEDC.

The primary issue Heather confronted was the need for funding and permitting assistance,

critical components for any successful business launch. Dr. Candace Pruett meticulously

reviewed Heather's business plan and worked collaboratively to craft comprehensive cashflow

projections. These projections played a pivotal role in the successful acquisition of a business

loan from VOLT.

Additionally, Candace and Anita demonstrated their unparalleled dedication by offering valuable

guidance through the complex process of obtaining permits at the county level. Thanks to the

unwavering support and expertise provided by Candace and Anita, Heather has triumphed over

the challenges and has successfully launched her business in Annapolis.

Heather expressed their gratitude, stating, "The guidance and expertise from the SBDC was so

in turning my business dreams into a tangible reality."

BluZone LLC is planning a formal ribbon cutting ceremony with the community for Monday

September 18th at 4pm. For more information about this event, please visit

https://www.bluzonellc.company/home.

The Maryland SBDC remains committed to nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit within the

community and empowering businesses to thrive against all odds. Through personalized

support and tailored solutions, the SBDC continues to serve as a beacon of hope for aspiring

and established business owners alike.

For more information about the Maryland SBDC and its range of services, please visit https://www.marylandsbdc.org/.