Entrepreneur Spotlight: Brian Allen

In 2014 while working at The Bethlehem Center in Alton Park, Brian Allen was introduced to LAUNCH by Program Director Gina Soltau. After hearing about the Business Entrepreneurship Academy, Brian thought it was the perfect time to start taking action on his business idea, Royal Transportation.

A few years earlier, Brian was frequently traveling back and forth from Chattanooga to Nashville. He used a local company that provided shuttle service with a 15-passenger van from city to city.  He would hear complaints from customers wanting better service with more amenities. Although it would take some time to work out the details, it was at that moment Royal Transportation was born.

Based out of Chattanooga, TN, Royal Transportation offers relaxing transportation services between Chattanooga, Atlanta, Nashville and the surrounding areas. Some of the features that are offered on board include free Wi-Fi, relaxing massage cushions and much more, all for an affordable price.

As Brian works to build his business, he credits LAUNCH for helping him take the first steps. “When I first started I was a little scared and nervous because I didn’t know what I was getting into but as the days and weeks went by, I became more excited about my business because of the class and the help from the LAUNCH staff and team.”

He continues, “LAUNCH has been a very integral part in Royal Transportation, as they have been by my side making sure I reach the goals I set for my business. My experience with LAUNCH staff has been like no other. I’ve been able to connect and meet people that I never would have if I had not taken the course. I’m also grateful for the friendships I have made along the way. I wouldn’t trade this experience for anything.”

UPDATE: For those of you keeping up with Brian and his journey, he has now been fully funded on Kiva! He'll now be able to move foward with Royal Transportation Chattanooga by purchasing a second vehicle, commercial insurance and using some of the loan for marketing. 

Brian is currently raising funds for his loan on Kiva, a nonprofit with a mission to connect people through lending.  With the loan, Brian will purchase a second vehicle which will allow his business to expand. Please consider being a lender with Brian.  You can lend as little as $25.  To lend now or just to read more about his journey check out his Kiva profile.

Help LAUNCH support more entrepreneurs like Brian!