Treasure Valley SBDC

How do your colleagues describe you?

“Chris is… very eclectic.”

“Does what it takes to help the client.”

“His personality makes him a good fit for some of our more unique clients.”

Why do you do what you do?

In my early business dealings, I struggled without mentorship, learning by trial and error. The SBDC discovered me providing free mentorship to a limited group of clients, and offered me the tools and support to take it to the next level. I don’t know what I’d do if I couldn’t do this.

Bio:

Chris’s education has been mainly out of the classroom, on the front lines of diverse businesses and in his own entrepreneurial endeavors, primarily in publishing and sales.

Chris has experience in a wide array of industries and disciplines, from retail to high-tech manufacturing. Lean and 5S, Facilities, Security, HR, Safety, and Marketing are among his favorite things to assist clients with. His current major focus areas are Government Contracting, Oregon CCB licensing, and working with TVCC SBDC’s more creative-minded clients.

How do your colleagues describe you?

Why do you do what you do?

Bio:

Grace is a Treasure Valley Community College alumna and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Eastern Oregon University, with an emphasis in leadership, organization, and management. Growing up in a family‑owned small business gave her an early appreciation for entrepreneurship. She brings a supportive, organized approach that helps create efficient systems and a welcoming environment for small businesses to grow with confidence.

Grace supports business advisers through operations, marketing, and behind‑the‑scenes coordination that keeps services running smoothly and client focused. She manages scheduling, communications, reporting, and outreach, helping advisers stay focused on strategy and meaningful client relationships.

How do your colleagues describe you?

Christina is a bundle of passionate energy filled with amazing ideas to help motivate and excel people to the next steps of development.

Why do you do what you do?

I love to stimulate people to bring their creative ideas to the surface and help them realize their goals of small business ownership. Helping people succeed is a passion of mine.

Bio:

Christina Grace specializes in several areas of business advising, including start-ups and growing existing businesses responsibly. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business Management and studied Alternative Holistic Healing through the Society of Ortho-Bionomy International. Christina has more than 20 years of experience in owning and operating successful family businesses. She is bilingual and bicultural and has traveled to South America and other Latin countries to bring back new business insights.

How do your colleagues describe you?

“Roy is a reliable person who can be counted on to deliver solutions in crunch times.”

Why do you do what you do?

“I enjoy assisting individuals who want to start up a business because I know that it is going to be a journey that will change their life. I find the most satisfaction when I’m able to offer a practical solution to a problem that the client thought was insurmountable.”

Bio:

Roy has extensive experience in mediation and other HR disciplines. His depth of experience in farm labor management is significant and provides our community with a steady resource to facilitate communications with our vibrant farm business community. Roy’s bilingual advising and understanding of the Latino culture has expanded the scope of the SBDC here at TVCC.

How do your colleagues describe you?

Why do you do what you do?

Bio:

Poppy is an experienced CPA, with a master’s in Accountancy with emphasis on Taxation from Boise State University. She has worked for three public accounting offices and has had her own firm since 2008. Poppy has worked for several large agribusiness companies in the Treasure Valley of Idaho and has taught individual and corporate taxation as well as training staff in those areas. She is also experienced with QuickBooks, Excel and other accounting software. Poppy is licensed in both Idaho and Oregon and helps clients who own businesses in both states. When not working, Poppy loves to hunt, fish, camp, hike and most of all hang out with her five grandkids!

How do your colleagues describe you?

Why do you do what you do?

Bio:

Andy has an executive MBA from Corban University. As a current business owner, Andy knows what it takes to start with a business idea and turn it into reality. From start-up processes and systems to bookkeeping and management skills, his knowledge and experience in business management are key assets.

Outside of work, Andy loves spending time with his wife and two kids enjoying the beauty of Eastern Oregon.

How do your colleagues describe you?

Why do you do what you do?

Bio:

Herbert owned and operated a cabinet-manufacturing business for more than a decade, giving him firsthand experience in the day-to-day realities of running a small business. Today he helps clients navigate topics such as bookkeeping systems, operational organization, technology tools, and business processes.

Herbert works with entrepreneurs and small business owners to improve financial organization, streamline operations, and implement practical systems and real-world solutions that support sustainable growth.