How An Online Marketing Company Got The Capital It Needed To Grow

Recently, we worked with Jerrod McAllister of Local Verifications to find his business the capital he needed to expand. We asked him what his experience was with Lendio, here’s what he had to say.

Tell me a little about your company.

Local Verifications is an Online Marketing company that serves small business owners across the United States. We focus on driving traffic to Google Listings and websites. Traffic equals calls. Calls equals revenue.

How did you start your company?

In 2009, I was working for a company called Splatr as a salesman. I got to know the owner really well. Within 3 months, I decided to start on my own with a fellow employee Phil Parker, in my garage. for a couple of months, it was just Phil and myself. Then, around month 3, we saved enough to open a real office and hire 5 employees. From there, Local Verifications has been in 5 cities and 3 states with 115 employees. It was a mixture of luck and good timing, honestly. I remember hearing from business owners in this space that 9/10 people that try to venture out on their own, fail. The first year was the hardest. I”m now lucky enough to have people in upper management take care of the day to day operations while I focus on expansion and software development.

How did you fund it?

I was able to fund Local Verifications with…wait for it…$800! I already had 2 computers, desks and chairs and a garage. All I had to pay for was our phone system and some leads. Not saying anyone could do it for $800, but I was fortunate to be close friends with the owner of the phone system company.

What keeps you going? What’s your passion?

I’m obsessed with seeing results. When we take a business that is on the brink of failing because maybe they’ve been in business 30 years and still rely on the phone book, and are able to get them a steady flow of customers, that’s what this is all about. My business would be considered a small business to some, so I understand the struggles; I get it. Being able to help the “little guys” compete with the corporate giants is one of the most rewarding things someone in this industry can do.

Why were you looking for a loan?

I originally got a loan through Lendio so I could expand into a new city. When I was approved, 1 month later we opened in St. George, Utah.

How did you find Lendio?

Lendio was easy to find, they are on Google! Businesses sometimes don’t see the value in being listed on Google. Lendio and I have done business three times together and we’ve both benefited tremendously.

How was your experience with Lendio?

Working with Lendio has been so easy. I don’t even have to fill out paperwork, they do that for you. I sign on the line which is dotted and send them six months of bank statements, and within 24 hours, money in the bank.

Would you recommend Lendio to a friend?

I recommend Lendio to anyone that is profitable, but looking for a little more capital.

What advice do you have for other entrepreneurs?

What advice do you have for other entrepreneurs?