Northwest Winds Kites and Toys

For this kite business, finding the right help was a breeze

After learning about kite flying from the shop’s previous owners, managers Mike and Jackie Oswald purchased Northwest Winds Kites and Toys in Lincoln City in 2017.

The couple looked to the SBDC and center director Dave Price to learn how to run the business and where to acquire financing.

“They made the whole transition much smoother,” Jackie said. “When we didn’t know the next step to take, we would talk to Dave and he would guide us in the right direction on what to do next.”

The Oregon Coast SBDC helped the Oswalds apply for and receive money from the Cascade West Council of Governments and the Lincoln County Revolving Loan Fund managed by the COG.

The owners also have attended SBDC classes on QuickBooks and social media marketing. Jackie and Mike are now seeking out the SBDC’s help in updating the store’s website.

“They’re continuing to help us learn,” Jackie said.

Northwest Winds Kites markets a large variety of products, from kids’ kites to advanced kites, as well as ground spinners and wind socks. Gomberg Kite Productions, which is based in Lincoln County, makes most of the kites the shop sells.