November 1, 2001

In 1996, Richard Overholt was laid off.  When considering his options, a friend told him about the Self Employment Benefit program that provides income support to EI eligible individuals.  The Business Development Centre of Greater Fort Erie is the SEB delivery agent in Fort Erie on behalf of Human Resources Development Canada.  The BDC staff assisted Rich in preparing his business plan for presentation to the regional selection committee.  Once approved, he started a golf cart repair business.  During the term of the SEB, he was advised on financing and business management by the BDC staff.

With the confidence of successful business management experience, Mr. Overholt approached the BDC in late 1998 for a loan to purchase an existing business, Putney’s Sales and Rentals, whose owner had decided to retire.

With the assistance of the BDC, the business’s accountant and the vendor, an application was prepared and approved by the BDC board and the purchase was completed in January 1999.  Nearly three years later, Richard and his wife Mary are conscientiously providing good customer service, and know that if they need any advice the BDC staff is ready to assist them.