October 21, 2024

Tutoring Service Expands

Grand Opening: Bridge Equity Education’s Brick-and-Mortar School Opens with Help from SBDC

After successfully launching a mobile tutoring service in 2021, Anwar Abdul-Rahman, leveraging years of teaching experience, wanted to take the next step to expand his educational offerings. Anwar had a bigger vision for Bridge Equity Education — building the first Bridge Learning Center. This exciting expansion would allow the business to serve preschool and K-12 students, complementing its existing mobile services.

Overcoming Challenges with Guidance from SBDC

The path to securing the perfect location came with its challenges. After identifying a space he was eager to lease, Anwar turned to the Orange County Inland Empire Small Business Development Center Network (OCIE SBDC) for assistance. Business consultant Bob Kirkpatrick guided him through every step of the leasing process.

Faced with competition for the space, Bob worked closely with Anwar to prepare a Letter of Intent for the landlord, including requests such as renewal options, rent, and tenant improvement allowances. They had to approach the negotiations carefully, balancing the client’s needs with those of the landlord. “Bob provided vital consultation on searching for commercial real estate, LOI, preparing, and signing the lease.” said Anwar. “Bob also reviewed the LOI with me and provided great advice on how to get the cost down and secure an option to extend the lease.”

The result was a success. Anwar secured his lease and gained many of the requested terms, including four months of free rent. With the lease in place, Bob put Anwar in contact with SBDC consultant Yadira Dominguez to go over his marketing strategy and ensure the business thrives in its new location.

A Successful Outcome and Bright Future

Thanks to the support of the SBDC, Bridge Learning Center held a grand opening on October 4, marking a new chapter in its growth. With a small capital injection of under $10,000 and a new lease secured, the business is ready to provide high-quality educational services to the Rancho Cucamonga community.

Looking to Start or Grow Your Business?

Connect with the OCIE SBDC today. Access expert, business consulting, training, and resources — all at no cost to you. Whether you’re looking to launch a new business or expand an existing one, the OCIE SBDC is here to help you succeed.

Call 1-800-616-7232 or schedule a 15-minute intake appointment today.