When Germaine Swenson first came to us at BCL of Texas, we were inspired by her passion. She and her husband, Ivan Matula, own Munkebo Farm in Manor, TX—a farm named after the town in Sweden where Germaine’s great-grandmother was born. Germaine has loved nature for as long as she can remember, and since acquiring the farm in 2000, she’s been building something special: a place where cattle, hogs, and fresh fruits and vegetables grow side by side, nurtured by care and hard work.

As Germaine and Ivan began thinking about the long-term future of Munkebo Farm, Germaine reached out to us for support. She wanted to improve how the business was managed and had big ideas for what the farm could become—like launching an incubator for young farmers and opening a farm store and supper club using their on-site commercial kitchen.

We met Germaine during the COVID crisis, when she learned about the grant programs we were offering to support local businesses. She signed up for classes and one-on-one coaching sessions—something she told us she genuinely enjoyed. “I’ve been keeping an inventory, so I’m more organized. And that’s not my strong suit, but it’s becoming my strong suit,” she told us with a smile. Through our training, we helped her streamline her operations, understand her profit margins, and explore new ways to connect with customers—including starting a newsletter.

Germaine’s feedback was deeply appreciated. “I would highly recommend BCL of Texas,” she said. “It’s been very helpful and covers all aspects of your business, whether it’s farming or something else.”

At BCL of Texas, this is exactly why we do what we do. We’re proud to walk alongside business owners like Germaine—providing training, coaching, and a community of support. We believe no one should feel like they have to figure it all out on their own. As Germaine told us: “When you’re with others, you’re sharing information and creating bonds.”