Dawson’s Management
Labrescia Dawson knew she would pursue entrepreneurship at a young age. Her father inspired and encouraged her to own her own company one day. Today, she’s the President, Founder and CEO of Dawson’s Management, which delivers tailored solutions and strategies to corporate, commercial, and government clients.
Her company was established in 2006 and has served federal clients such as the CDC, USDA, HUD, and the Department of Veteran Affairs. She chose the professional services/contracting industry because of its adaptability and versatility, which aligns with her passion for creativity, problem-solving, and continuous learning.
Labrescia became acquainted with SBA years ago while attending a conference. Since then, she said SBA programs have played a pivotal role in the growth and expansion of her company. “One of the most significant ways the SBA has assisted me is through access to mentorship and technical assistance,” she said.
She has received counseling services through the Small Business Development Center and is a graduate of the SBA Emerging Leaders program (currently known as T.H.R.I.V.E.). She also an 8(a) program participant and has the Woman-Owned Small Business and HUBZone certifications.
“Despite initially lacking contracts and facing challenges, completing [T.H.R.I.V.E.] enabled me to secure multiple contracts,” she said. “This success can be attributed to the invaluable tools and encouragement received from both classmates and instructors alike.”
Additionally, she said the SBA has helped her access financial assistance, which she said has been instrumental in fueling the growth of her business. For example, in 2020, Labrescia secured SBA pandemic assistance that she said directly helped her successfully expand her organization, which ultimately led to the acquisition of multiple contracts and the effective recruitment and retention of her existing staff.
“The combined support from these SBA programs has played a crucial role in our growth and resilience,” she said. “Overall, SBA programs have been a cornerstone in my company's journey, providing essential tools and support to help us thrive and succeed.”
Labrescia encourages other small business owners to leverage all available resources and support networks, including those offered by SBA.
“Attend as many classes and workshops as possible to gain insights and knowledge. Build relationships with SBA representatives and other entrepreneurs in your community. Believe in your ability to succeed with the support of the SBA, and most importantly, take action and implement what you learn. Together, we can overcome obstacles and achieve our goals if we don't quit.”