Brad Carrier has worked in the pest control industry for over 18 years. After being a part of three different companies that worked with both commercial and residential customers, he decided it was time for him to go into business by himself. Brad launched Bugsy’s Pest Solutions in March 2017, a pest control business servicing residential, commercial, and industrial facilities in and around Evansdale, Iowa.
Although Brad had adequate knowledge in the industry, he reached out to Amy Dutton with University of Northern Iowa SBDC to receive more information about the tax and business side of his venture. Amy Dutton assisted Brad with all of the questions that he had and Brad describes it as a “Great experience. It was very easy to set up meeting with the SBDC. I would still be working for someone else, and making some else money, instead of chasing my dreams if I wasn’t for knowing that SBDC is there if I need them.” He also had assistance from other pest control companies, such as Bear Pest Control and Pratts Pest Control, which helped walk him through the process.
Bugsy’s Pest Solutions was profitable in their first year of business and are projected to continue to grow and become more profitable in the upcoming year. The most challenging aspect for Brad was finding affordable marketing, but he has found that Facebook, radio ads, and investing in his website is effective. Brad believes that he would not have been able to start his business without the assistance of the SBDC as well as his family for being supportive throughout the process. Brad plans to add an employee and a vehicle this year and possibly an office space to work out of.
Brad also makes many contributions to his community outside of work. He has done bed bug services at cost for low income housing in the area. Bugsy’s Pest Solutions also sponsors multiple youth sports in the area, such as East Waterloo Bowling, Smash Volleyball Club, and Waterloo Warrior Hockey.
For more information about Brad Carrier and Bugsy’s Pest Solutions, please visit their website at www.bugsyspestsolutions.com/ or their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/bugsyspestsolutions/.
