Delp & Associates, LLC

Investment and Growth for a Columbus Small Business

Terrence Delp founded Delp & Associates, LLC in 1996 to address the need for built-to-task laboratory equipment that was safe, simple to use, easy to maintain and would minimize the daily challenges faced by researchers. The Columbus, Ohio, company wanted to assist in the growth, productivity and profitability of research and manufacturing organizations. The outcome was the Delp Mixer, a safer, more efficient laboratory mixer for process and research activities in the scientific, medical and pharmaceutical industries.

When the development of the Delp Mixer was completed in 2001, the company agreed to offer the product through the Cole-Parmer Instrument catalog. This required expansion of the business to support sales, marketing and production of a full retail line. A change in business model and capital were needed. Lisa Delp, CEO of Delp & Associates, contacted the Ohio SBDC at Columbus State Community College for help.

Business Advisor Nancy Stoll assisted Lisa in articulating the goals of her business and steps necessary to achieve those goals. She also worked with Lisa on her business plan, encouraged her to seek funding from Columbus Venture Capital groups and private investors, and helped her define how much funding would be required. As a result of working with the SBDC, Delp & Associates received an investment of more than $200,000.

“I hold the SBDC directly responsible for this investment,” Lisa said. “The Angel organization had previously reviewed the business and passed on a funding opportunity. After seeing our new plan, budget, and business presentation, we were much more attractive.”

Delp & Associates continues to grow and Lisa predicts new employees and facilities will be required during 2005.

“When the time comes for these activities, the company will look to the SBDC for assistance in developing plans and programs to meet our needs,” she said.

“The [SBDC] became true partners in the success of Delp & Associates,” Lisa said. “I believe that the programs offered will continue to strengthen my business.”