INNOVATIVE MARINE

Gary started Innovative out of his home, developing a grease gutter for boat docks. This prevented the grease from dripping down from the pulleys that lift the boat out of the water. Shortly thereafter, Gary developed the "Touchless Boat Cover" and he started manufacturing them on a shoestring. Years later, he is in his second warehouse which they are already growing out of after only one year.

In 2005, they launched a national dealership program. They now have 50 dealers and have implemented a distributor program (new as of early 2006). One distributor for Indiana has signed up so far. Most importantly, as Innovative's profits continue to rise, they have increase 2006 profits YTD by 330% over last year.

Gary predicts that will only get stronger as they close 2006. Sales this year are 24% higher than last year for the same time. Gary contributes his success to good people. He runs a very close team and he has relatively limited turnover. Gary has worked with the SBDC since 2000! He attended seminars, worked with SBDC counselors and is now a client of the Advisory Board Council program.