Save your Seat

Moutainland Technical College or Mtech Payson Campus

Located just west of I-15 off the 800 S Exit - 993 S. 1950 W.

Thanks to our Champion Sponsor!

Your Business Breakthrough Starts Here: Garage to Great

From mastering marketing on a budget to securing capital, managing your time effectively, building a strong online presence, and harnessing the power of mentorship—this program gives you the strategies and support you need to grow with confidence and clarity.

The Garage to Great Workshop delivers practical tools, expert insights, and powerful connections designed to help you transform your business from a home-based idea into a thriving enterprise.


Who This Workshop is For:

Local entrepreneurs, home-based business owners, and small brick-and-mortar shops who are ready to grow. Whether you need help with marketing, funding, time management, or strategy — you’ll walk away with real tools, clear direction, and the confidence to build a business that works for you.

What You’ll Gain

  • Master marketing—even on a tight budget
  • Learn how to secure funding for growth
  • Take control of your time and schedule
  • Strengthen and protect your online presence
  • Connect with mentors who’ve been there

Workshop Speakers

J. Blake Murdock

Blake Murdock 

Murdock Auto Team

Blake is the Owner/Operator of Murdock Ford in Santaquin. Murdock is a family-owned Utah business that has set the standard for trust, integrity, and service. Founded in 1925, Murdock Auto legacy has grown by continuing to serve communities statewide with a steadfast commitment to “doing the right thing.” Blake specializes in operational longevity, building lasting business legacies, and navigating expansion while maintaining core customer trust and community values.

MIke Rowland

Mike Rowland

Droplet

Mike is the Co-Founder and CEO of Droplet, a Lehi-based software company. Having successfully raised over $12 million in funding, he specializes in building companies from the ground up, navigating rapid growth, and mastering sales strategy. Mike offers crucial insight into scaling systems and technology to turn any small idea into a high-growth enterprise.

Christine Hanks

Christine Hanks 

Soapcreek Manufacturing

As a former Utah SBDC State Star and Associate Director, Christine spent six years helping rural entrepreneurs develop roadmaps for success. She brings this planning and guidance expertise directly from the front lines of small business development. Now, as the VP of Human Resources and Public Relations at Soapcreek Manufacturing, she brings a unique insight into the HR, accounting, and operational systems required to move from the drawing board to large-scale business reality.

BreAnna Nixon

BreAnna Nixon

Omnia Real Estate/Classic Car/Dog Wash

As an Entrepreneur and Real Estate Professional, BreAnna brings direct expertise from running the Classic Car and Dog Wash. She leverages real-world operational strategy and deep market knowledge as a Realtor to guide businesses past startup challenges and toward sustainable growth.

Tyler Anderson

Tyler Anderson

GoCMO 

Tyler is a seasoned marketing executive with over 17 years of experience helping businesses build strong brands and measurable marketing strategies. As owner at Go CMO, he specializes in creating data-driven marketing plans and maximizing social media impact to drive customer growth, engagement, and long-term success.

Carrie Harris

Carrie Harris

Aspire Worldwide

Carrie Harris, Co-Founder of Aspire Business Coaching and Recruiting with over 10 years of serving alongside business owners, holds an MBA and specializes in the "People" pillar of growth. As a Fractional Chief People Officer, she coaches owners on strengthening culture, improving accountability, and building systems to ensure your business can thrive without you, effectively ending owner burnout. 

Jason Nelson

Jason Nelson

Swell Media 

A media entrepreneur and advertising strategist, Jason is passionate about helping businesses grow through creative, targeted marketing. As co-owner of Bennett Communications and founder of Swell Media and Swell Ad Systems, he specializes in building strategic, data-driven campaigns that connect brands with the right audiences and drive measurable results.

TJ Checketts

TJ Checketts 

Equinox IT Services

TJ is an IT expert and founder of Equinox IT Services, where he helps businesses strengthen security, streamline operations, and stay protected online. With a background in computer information technology, TJ specializes in cybersecurity and Google Business Profile protection, empowering organizations to operate safely and efficiently in the digital world.

Lorene Moore

Lorene Moore

BNI / Nebo Comfort

Lorene is a seasoned connector who helps professionals turn contacts into meaningful relationships that drive growth. As a BNI Chapter Director Consultant and VP of Marketing at Nebo Comfort Systems, she blends business insight with a passion for people. She also leads The Candy Bomber Foundation, continuing Gail Halvorsen’s legacy of service. In her workshop, Networking Smarter, Not Harder, Lorene shares practical strategies to build authentic connections that create real opportunities.

Josh Barlow

Barlow, Josh

Fulcrum Works

Founder of Fulcrum Works, Josh helps small and mid-sized business owners overcome growing pains and reach their full potential. A seasoned operations leader, Josh specializes in building scalable systems, optimizing processes, and fostering engaged teams. Drawing on years of leadership and Lean/Six Sigma expertise, he empowers organizations to stabilize, streamline, and grow with purpose.

Chris Slider

Chris Slider

Slider CPA 

Chris provides trusted accounting, payroll, and tax services to individuals and businesses. With over 20 years of experience across banking, construction, manufacturing, and public accounting, Chris combines technical expertise with a strong commitment to integrity and client success. Based in Payson, Utah, he and his team pride themselves on delivering personalized, high-quality service that helps clients achieve financial confidence and long-term stability.

Cody Sumner

Cody Sumner

Sumner Solutions LLC

Cody brings years of entrepreneurial experience from owning and operating four successful companies. With a passion for continuous improvement and leadership, Cody combines business insight with technical expertise in telecommunications—specializing in PTP, PMP, and 900MHz systems, routers, and switches. Dedicated to growth, connection, and excellence, he believes success comes from constant learning and helping others reach their potential.

Workshop Schedule - Revised 10/16/25


8:00 to 8:45 - Check in and grab a full breakfast from Aroma Cafe and some hot or cold drinks from 7 Brew Coffee (coffee, lemonade, water)

8:45 to 9:00 - Welcome 

9:00 - 9:50 Session 1 – choose one of 2 classes

  • Creating a Marketing Plan - How much should you budget for, what are all your avenues to find customers - Speaker: Tyler Anderson, GoCMO
  • Taxes for Home-based Businesses - What you need to know about taxes, but didn’t think to ask - Speaker: Chris Slider, Slider CPA

10:00 - 10:50 Session 2 – choose one of 2 classes

  • Protecting Your Online Presence - Online Security and how to protect your Google Business Profile - Speaker: TJ Checketts, Equinox IT Services
  • Building a Business Plan to Steer You to Success - How to write a business plan and use it to guide your business growth - Speaker: Christine Hanks, Soap Creek Manufacturing, SBDC

11:00-12:30 Mentor Round table Discussion:
Moderator: Josh Barlow, Fulcrum Works - Two decades of experience in building scalable systems and driving efficiency for companies. Engineering the processes that took one startup from its first check to $1M/month in revenue. Founded Fulcrum Works LLC to empower small-to-midsize business owners to overcome growing pains and achieve their full potential.
Guest Mentor:

  • BreAnna Nixon, Entrepreneur & Real Estate Professional
  • Cody Sumner, Entrepreneur & Operations Strategist, Sumner Solutions, LLC
  • Mike Rowland, Co-Founder and CEO of Droplet
  • Blake Murdock, Owner/Operator of Murdock Ford
  • Jason Nelson, Advertising VP and Editorial Board Member of NRV Media

12:30 - 1:20 -  Box Lunch from Mtech culinary, energy drink from 7 Brew Coffee and continued conversation with mentors

1:30 - 2:20 Session 3 – choose one of 2 classes

  • Social Media Marketing - Deep dive into where and how to utilize the vast world of social media marketing - Speaker: Tyler Anderson, GoCMO
  • Build Your Team and Get Your Life Back - How to hire, the right people and build a culture to help your business thrive - Speaker: Carrie Harris, Aspire Business Coaching and Recruiting

2:20 - 3:00  - Networking Smarter, Not Harder: Making connections over collecting contacts - Speaker: Lorene Moore, BNI Chapter Director Consultant, Nebo Comfort

Limited Seating Register Now!

These events don't happen without great Sponsors. Thank you for your support!

Champion Sponsor

Supporting Sponsors




A Community Investment


By joining the Garage to Great Workshop, you’re not only investing in your future—you’re contributing to the success stories that will strengthen our community and local economy. The Payson Santaquin Chamber of Commerce invites you to be part of this journey

Save the Date for this amazing day of learning.

Reach out to Jim  to discuss possible Sponsorship Opportunities or any questions.


Grow your business at the Payson Christmas Festival - Booths still available

November 29th, Payson Main St. - Click HERE for all the Details!

From Garage to Great: Your Success Blueprint

Stuck in survival mode? Garage to Great equips you to beat the 50% failure odds. We tackle the #1 killer – cash flow crisis – and turn your vision into lasting success through:


Essential Tools: Access funding & resources to stabilize.
Continuous Learning: Master financial skills & strategy.
Growth Acceleration: Move beyond startup struggles to scalable success.


Your journey from Garage to Great starts here.
👉 Join our events to build foundations then break boundaries!



Need Some Money? Checkout These Offerings!

1.Goldman Sachs Launches $100M Program to Empower Rural Utah Small Businesses:


Big Boost for Rural Utah: Goldman Sachs Brings $100M Small Business Program to the State:


We’re excited to share that Goldman Sachs has extended its $100 million initiative for rural small businesses—and Utah is now part of this game-changing program.

This expansion of the One Million Black Women: Black in Business and 10,000 Small Businesses programs aims to strengthen local economies by providing rural entrepreneurs with access to critical capital, business education, and support services. The funding is designed to help small businesses grow, create jobs, and revitalize rural communities across the U.S.


Why this matters for Utah:

  • Utah is one of six new states added to this initiative.
  • Rural entrepreneurs will gain access to low-interest loans, coaching, and training through Goldman Sachs’ network of partners, including local community development financial institutions (CDFIs).
  • This move underscores the strength and resilience of Utah’s rural economy and the importance of empowering small business owners outside major metropolitan areas.


A Win for Rural Entrepreneurs:

Whether you're launching a new venture or looking to expand an existing business, this program offers a unique opportunity to secure funding and resources that can make a lasting difference.

We’ll continue to follow this initiative and share updates as more details become available on how Utah business owners can apply.


More Information

 2.Grant Programs to Support and Strengthen Utah Businesses


Looking to grow your business in Utah? The Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity (GOEO) offers a variety of grant programs designed to support local businesses at every stage—whether you're expanding, innovating, hiring, or navigating new challenges.

Through these state-funded initiatives, Utah-based businesses can access financial support, specialized programs, and valuable resources that help boost success, strengthen operations, and promote long-term growth.


What You’ll Find:


  • Grants for rural business expansion
  • Support for women, minority, and veteran-owned businesses
  • Incentives for technology innovation and workforce development
  • Resources for international trade, manufacturing, and more


Whether you're launching a new product, hiring local talent, or scaling your operations, these grants are a powerful way to invest in your business's future.

Don’t miss out on the support that’s available right in your own backyard. These programs are here to help you take the next step with confidence.
Explore the possibilities, apply for funding, and connect with a network ready to champion your growth.


Now is the time to fuel your growth and build a stronger Utah business community.




More Information

3. Utah Small Business Credit Initiative (USBCI)


Looking to grow your small business in Utah? The Utah Small Business Credit Initiative (USBCI) offers a range of financial tools and resources designed to support entrepreneurs and small businesses across the state.


Key Features:


  • Financial Support: Access to capital through various programs tailored to meet the needs of Utah's small business community.
  • Technical Assistance: Guidance and support to help businesses navigate challenges and seize growth opportunities.
  • Community Impact: Aimed at fostering economic development and stability within Utah's diverse communities.

Important Dates:


  • Application Deadline: The next application window is open from August 1–15, 2025.


Funding Amount:

  • Eligible businesses can apply for funding amounts that vary based on the specific program and business needs. Detailed information on funding limits and eligibility criteria can be found on the official USBCI website.


How to Apply:

  • Visit the official page for comprehensive information on application procedures, eligibility requirements, and program details. Don't miss this opportunity to secure the resources your business needs to thrive.


More Information