“CEF wants you to be successful out of the gate and they provided many resources and support to help you do so. It was friendly and supportive from day 1.”
– James Seela, Owner

Q&A with Owner, James Seela

Give a high level overview of your business. What products or services you offer, where you're located, etc.
We are a PROUD Colorado company that always strives to put our client's needs first. Our team of agents is here to provide comprehensive service to our clients so that we can provide customized insurance and financial solutions to meet the specific needs of each individual, family or business. Protecting what matters most to you or your business while planning for the future is something we take great pride in, and we want to be your "One Stop Shop" for your insurance and financial needs.

What inspired you to step into the world of small business?
After many years of working for great companies, frequently on the road traveling, and having the opportunity to work with many small business owners, I wanted to get off the road to be a more present husband & father so starting small business was a great way to accomplish a lot of these things.

What neighborhood is your business located in and what do you love about that location?
I am a very proud Colorado native, especially Northern Colorado where I was born and raised. So to be able to open my business in Greeley and have the opportunity to serve this city and the surrounding communities in Northern Colorado means so much to me and my family.

How did your journey lead you to Colorado Enterprise Fund?
The experiences I had working with small businesses, I knew a healthy cash flow is essential to success. Many traditional lending sources do not prefer to lend to start up businesses, however one of those lending sources suggested I contact CEF and it was a blessing.

How did you find out about CEF?
One of the traditional lending sources I initially approached turned me down, but they still wanted to help and they suggested I apply with CEF.

What was your experience like in working with CEF?
CEF wants you to be successful out of the gate and they provided many resources and support to help you do so. It was friendly and supportive from day 1.

What were you able to do with the funding you received from CEF?
I was able to open my doors with the confidence that I would have the time and funding to allow me to build my business the way I wanted to with a Customer centered approach.

What advice would you give to another small business owner going through the loan process?
Try to be patient, take advice and assistance from as many other small business owners as you can, and surround yourself with people that have skills you may not have.

Have you worked with our Business Navigation (coaching) team?
Yes.

What difference has working with them made for your business?
They have been a nice resource to contact with question.

What is something you're looking forward to in the next 3-6 months in your business?
To see continued growth and development of our team, business and positive impact on our community