FSBDC Success Story | Wild About Popcorn, Inc. 

Wild About Popcorn, Inc. 

After 30 years as a Registered Nurse, Julie Caracappa decided it was time for a change. 

She enrolled in a course for individuals who were interested in starting their own business. Caracappa had to choose a business and use the knowledge she learned about the business to complete the course. 

The business she chose, a popcorn company in Austin, TX, ended up piquing her interest beyond the course. She decided to visit the popcorn company in person to experience firsthand how the business worked. Six months later, Wild About Popcorn, Inc. was established. 

Before Wild About Popcorn’s doors could open, Caracappa needed assistance. The SBDC’s help included valuable financial insight, assistance with navigating permits and business licenses, regular guidance on payroll and inventory management, and more. 

“The SBDC was instrumental in helping Wild About Popcorn organize events outside of our brick-and-mortar shop, as well as build wholesale partnerships for our popcorn to sell in other locations,” Caracappa says. 

Then, at the start of 2020, the pandemic hit the company especially hard. With many businesses closing, Wild About Popcorn, Inc. had to determine how to survive without the business their wholesale partners were bringing in. 

The SBDC was there to back Caracappa during this difficult time, giving her advice and recommendations about the financial decisions she would have to make for the future of her business. 

“With the help of the SBDC, Wild About Popcorn is able to survive our current situation and come out on the other side well positioned for growth,” Caracappa says. 

“The SBDC has been a business partner of Wild About Popcorn, Inc. from the onset and continues to provide the advice, guidance, validation, and support needed for the continued financial health and growth we expect to attain.” 

The team at the SBDC strives to assist Wild About Popcorn, Inc. however they can while they work to find their footing in an unpredictable environment. Their help has allowed Caracappa to attain funds, keep operations running, and retain employees during the pandemic. Even a small boost can help in a time of need, but for everything the SBDC has done for her business, Caracappa is grateful. 

For more information about Wild About Popcorn, Inc., please visit https://www.wildaboutpopcorn.com/.