U.S. Small Business Administration Administrator Isabel Guzman stands alongside Elevator Co-Warehousing team during her visit to the Omaha-based facility. The group is smiling in front of a colorful background featuring business-related icons, celebrating the support for small businesses.

Isabel Guzman Visits Elevator Co-Warehousing: A Milestone for Small Businesses in Omaha

Discover how Elevator Co-Warehousing, a Latino-owned business in Omaha, is driving small business growth and empowering minority entrepreneurs with support from the SBA. Learn more about SBA Administrator Isabel Guzman’s recent visit and Elevator's expansion plans.

collaboration | 2024-10-04

By Josh Peterson, Marketing Director, Elevator Co-Warehousing

Omaha, NE – Elevator Co-Warehousing + Community proudly hosted SBA Administrator Isabel Guzman, who toured the facility to highlight its role in fostering entrepreneurship. As a Latino-owned business, Elevator has been a vital player in driving Omaha's small business growth, especially among minority-owned enterprises. Guzman’s visit underscored the SBA's ongoing commitment to supporting small businesses through flexible financial programs and mentorship.

SBA’s Continued Support for Small Business Growth

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), led by Administrator Isabel Guzman, has been instrumental in supporting the growth of over 34 million small businesses nationwide. During her visit, Guzman praised Elevator's success, supported by SBA loans and technical guidance, helping the company expand into a thriving hub for entrepreneurs in Omaha. “The SBA is proud to be part of Elevator’s journey, fostering the grit and determination that makes enterprises like this succeed,” Guzman said.

Celebrating Latino-Owned Business Success During Hispanic Heritage Month

Guzman’s visit coincided with Hispanic Heritage Month, making it a timely recognition of Latino entrepreneurs. Elevator, founded by Emiliano Lerda, who immigrated from Argentina as a student, and Shannon Lerda exemplifies the resilience and ambition of Latino business owners. The SBA’s $3 billion in loans to Latino entrepreneurs in 2023 played a key role in supporting the country's economy. This has fueled Elevator’s growth, allowing it to provide affordable, flexible workspaces that break down financial barriers for startups. “As a minority-owned business, we are committed to helping other entrepreneurs achieve their dreams, especially those from underserved communities,” Emiliano Lerda said.

Touring Elevator Co-Warehousing: A Hub for Omaha’s Entrepreneurs

During the facility tour, Administrator Guzman witnessed firsthand how Elevator supports small businesses transitioning from home-based operations to more formal, scalable settings. The company's unique approach to flexible leasing—offering month-to-month memberships without financial or credit checks—provides startups with the space and resources they need to grow. Guzman commended Elevator’s efforts to empower entrepreneurs, noting, “Community spaces like this are crucial for economic development.”

Expansion Plans Announced to Meet Growing Demand

Elevator is set to expand, with co-founders Emiliano and Shannon Lerda announcing plans to open two additional locations in the coming months. This growth will further support booming Midwest entrepreneurial communities, providing even more small businesses access to Elevator’s collaborative, flexible workspaces, and services to help entrepreneurs grow their business. The expansion reflects Elevator’s commitment to its mission to elevate small businesses and communities.

Impact on Local Economy and Future Growth

As Elevator continues to play a pivotal role in Omaha's local economy, SBA’s support remains essential in enabling businesses like Elevator to drive regional growth. With over 100 businesses utilizing its facilities, Elevator is a key player in the city's entrepreneurial success, alongside other important ecosystem supporters.

About the Author

Josh Peterson is the Marketing Director for Elevator Spaces, specializing in marketing, branding, and entrepreneurship. With a background in entrepreneurial initiatives, Josh also runs Peterson Media, a content creation agency for small businesses in Omaha.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What is Elevator? Elevator is a facility in Omaha that offers flexible, month-to-month office and warehousing spaces designed to help small businesses grow. It also provides services to help businesses scale, such as logistics and shipping, education, and accessible capital.
  2. How did the SBA support Elevator Co-Warehousing? The SBA provided loans and technical guidance, helping Elevator expand and support local entrepreneurs.
  3. Why was Isabel Guzman’s visit significant? Guzman’s visit recognized Elevator's contribution to Omaha's economy and celebrated its success as a Latino-owned business during Hispanic Heritage Month.
  4. What are Elevator’s future plans? Elevator is planning to open two new locations within the coming months to meet growing demand and continue supporting small business growth and communities.

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