The SBDC gave this artist management and production entrepreneur a whole new start.

Actress and recording artist, Jane Katherine-Watson founded L.A. Saditte in 2001 with her husband, Michael A. Watson. Initially formed as a talent management agency to develop actors, singers, dancers and writers, the company has since expanded to produce independent film projects worldwide in addition to managing artists.

Challenges

Watson was motivated by the desire to help qualified artists find work after years of stage and television experience herself. She launched L.A. Saditte using her former network of contacts from the entertainment industry. Despite pouring her heart and soul into the business and getting work for clients, a decade later she still couldn’t afford to quit her day job. “My sister told me I was putting all my efforts into making other people rich, and I should go to the SBDC [for help],” Watson recalls.

Best Advice

The SBDC, hosted by College of the Canyons, helped Watson re-evaluate and rebrand her business, differentiate herself in the marketplace, and redesign her business website. In addition, the SBDC advisors assisted Watson with her new business plan and financial projections, as well as assisted her with applying for a business loan.The SBDC, hosted by College of the Canyons, helped Watson reevaluate and rebrand her business, differentiate herself in the marketplace, and redesign her business website. In addition, the SBDC advisors assisted Watson with her new business plan and financial projections, as well as assisted her with applying for a business loan.

Client Impact

“My business started the day I met my SBDC advisors,” Watson says. “Working with them has taught me not only about my business, but more importantly about myself. Gil’s first-hand experience and the information he has imparted are priceless. In the entertainment business, no one helps anyone. Working with Gil has given me that much-needed edge.”