- Date published
Small businesses have the ability to personalize their image more than your typical chain. Sometimes that includes your beloved pet becoming your mascot.
Sandpiper Landing Inn’s Chinese Shar-pei, Piper, establishes the family-friendly atmosphere. Her
talent for greeting guests at the door instantly sets the tone for a warm and inviting stay, making guests feel right at home.
Recently, Sandpiper won the American Express Backing Small Business Grant in recognition of their
unique contributions in the area.
A Branson landmark
Odds are, if you’re from the local Springfield community, you’ve visited Branson, Missouri, a time or two. The popular tourist area in SWMO is known for its entertainment, recreational activities and beautiful landscapes. It’s family-friendly, with activities for people of every age, bringing in millions of tourists every year.
“After the [Branson] boom, older small businesses such as mine were left behind. Branson moved ahead with more modern facilities with hundreds of rooms that are closer to many Branson attractions,” Deana Acton of Sandpiper explained. “But as one of the last ‘Mom and Pop’ motels, we strive to move forward with updates to modernize but keep the vintage feel that we are known for.”
Finding that right balance has been top of mind for Acton. In the last several years she’s attended meetings and training to elevate her business. During one course, she was introduced to Sandra Smart, technology commercialization specialist of Missouri SBDC at MSU, who’s been an anchor of support along the way.
Years later, Acton’s determination paid off. The Sandpiper Inn received $10,000 from the Small Business Enhancement Grant through American Express and Main Street America.
“With the help of SBDC and grants like this one, it allows us to continue as a landmark in the Downtown Branson community.”
The 30-unit, family-friendly motel continues to be a landmark in the historic area. The Actons are now celebrating their 50th anniversary at the Inn. They continue to create a welcoming and memorable experience for guests, which, of course, includes Piper’s initial charm. The social media star continues to tell the tale of the vintage motel.
Keeping it local
This grant goes beyond one business. Acton plans to pay it forward, using the grant to buy materials for the renovation from another local business: Sho-Me Flooring.
“We are honored to have been selected as a recipient of the Small Business Enhancement Grant, allowing us to modernize some of our rooms,” Acton says. “I appreciate American Express and Main Street America for recognizing and supporting efforts to help maintain and grow small businesses”
American Express's commitment to small business
The grant aids in providing financial support and resource connections to small business owners. Backing Small has provided over $9 million to small business owners in just three years, including those who’ve experienced economic hardship after COVID19. Backing Small Businesses continues to represent the importance of local business owners.
This year, 500 small business owners received $10,000 through the program, emphasizing American Express’s commitment to supporting small businesses everywhere.
Even more exciting, grantees like Acton will also have the opportunity to win an additional $30,000 enhancement grant later this year.
