Small Business Success Story - Thorn Electric Inc.

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Each year the New York Small Business Development Center recognizes outstanding small businesses in a variety of ways.  This Success Story from the  Queens-York SBDC appears in our 2016 Annual Report. 

Lawrence Thorne 
Thorn Electric Inc.
Queens-York SBDC

Thorn Electric, Inc. was established in 1990 by Lawrence Thorne. After a short time in the private sector, the business was approved by the New York City Housing and Preservation Development (HPD) to provide emergency repairs and apartment and building wiring upgrades. While maintaining the business structure of a small company, Thorn Electric Inc. brings the flexibility and professional approach that is well-suited for the sectors and communities it serves. 
Thorn Electric specializes in all areas of electrical installation including: electrical distribution systems, lighting systems, fire alarms, public address and clock systems, surveillance cameras, and emergency services. Thorn’s primary focus is electrical construction in public and private schools, as well as the industrial, commercial and residential sectors. Thorn is determined to be a superior and effective contractor that provides quality electrical services on all jobs large or small with professionalism. 
Lawrence consulted the SBDC for assistance with expanding his business. He and SBDC Advisor Brian Yeung also discussed the benefits of NYC business certification, the Bidlinx bid-matching service provided by the SBDC, and the Delta Air Lines project and JFK|IAT Redevelopment as potential sources of contracts. With the assistance from the York College SBDC, Lawrence Thorne was able to get a SBA 504 loan to buy a commercial property to expand his business. As a result of the expansion, six jobs were created and 10 jobs saved. 

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