San Mateo SBDC
C&C Auto Refinishing LLC
“The help from the SBDC has been invaluable. Our business advisor has been a blessing to our business. The classes and individual counseling have been extremely helpful in keeping our business afloat and starting to grow. Thank you, SBDC, for being there for small businesses.”
About Business
C&C Auto Refinishing LLC, formerly known as C&C Automotive Refinishing LLC, specializes in collision repair, computerized estimating, computerized color matching, paintless dent repair, and glass/windshield replacement. Under the leadership of owners Tania and Carlos, the business focuses on delivering timely, high-quality repairs at affordable prices, helping customers restore their vehicles efficiently and cost-effectively.
In 2017, Tania and Carlos experienced the devastating loss of their eldest daughter in a car accident. In 2021, they used compensation funds from the accident to purchase an auto refinishing business, naming it C&C Automotive Refinishing LLC as a tribute to their daughter. The letters “C” in the business name represent the initial of her name.
For Tania and Carlos, the business not only honors her memory but also serves as a way to connect with others who have faced similar losses, offering mutual support within the community.
Challenge
When the business was acquired, the owners discovered several unforeseen challenges. They learned that their LLC was incorrectly filed, they had not secured the business’s assets, and their bookkeeping was in disarray. With the guidance of an SBDC business advisor, these issues were promptly addressed. The advisor assisted in resolving compliance issues, reorganizing bookkeeping practices, and avoiding an unfavorable lease. Additionally, they provided support in securing a business loan for new equipment, ensuring the business could operate effectively despite these initial setbacks.
Gameplan
The owners transitioned from being ordinary workers to business owners and encountered numerous challenges in an unfamiliar industry. They credit the support from the SBDC and their business advisor as being instrumental to their success. The classes and one-on-one counseling provided the knowledge and guidance needed to sustain and grow their business. They expressed deep gratitude for the SBDC’s dedication to supporting small businesses.
Results
With the assistance of the SBDC, C&C Auto Refinishing LLC has seen substantial improvements in revenue and profits. The owners have gained valuable knowledge in financial management, successfully secured a business loan, and negotiated favorable terms for their new lease. These achievements have set a strong foundation for the business’s continued growth and success.
