Delaware SBDC’s State Star: Tom Thunstrom
America’s Small Business Development Center State Star List is a catalog of individuals who “are among the best of the best — those who demonstrate exemplary performance, make significant contributions to their networks, and are deeply committed to the success of America’s small businesses.” We are delighted to announce that Tom Thunstrom, Sussex County Center Director, has received some well-deserved recognition as our 2024 Delaware State Star!
With over five years of service to the Delaware SBDC, Tom has worked with over 400 clients, helping 40+ businesses start and infusing over $13 million in capital formation into the Delaware economy. With nearly 20 years of management experience, between the financial services and nonprofit sectors and WSFS Bank, he is passionate about helping businesses work smarter and more efficiently to increase their impact and bottom line.
Cari Miller, a client who has worked hands-on with Tom, expressed her gratitude for the Delaware SBDC and appreciates the guidance she received in formulating her business venture:
“Their help, support, coaching, and tools have been invaluable! Any questions or worries I have – no matter how simple or complex – they have answers, ideas, support, and extremely good resources for us to lean on. Everyone I’ve encountered at the SBDC understands how hard it is to start a business, and their concern for our success is more than genuine – it’s personal.
– Cari Miller
While overseeing strategic communications for Sussex County and operations for the Georgetown office, Tom helps the Delaware SBDC internally by managing advisor professional development, process improvement, and strategic planning. During his time at the SBDC, he has built relationships with multiple lending institutions, local chambers, Delaware World Trade Center, and US Commercial Services through his expertise as an Export Certified Advisor. These relationships help the SBDC stay strong, effective, and well-connected – Sarah Mailloux, Delaware SBDC’s Associate State Director, shared her appreciation for Tom’s drive and ability to connect with the community:
“We are very lucky to have Tom at the Delaware SBDC and this award is well-deserved. His expertise has helped small businesses throughout the state to succeed over the years. Last year, Tom was selected as the Center Director for Kent and Sussex Counties. In this role, he has renewed strategic partnerships, emphasized efficient operations, and built out a professional development program for our staff. These initiatives bring the SBDC to new heights. Congratulations Tom! Looking forward to your continued efforts!”
– Sarah Mailloux, Associate State Director DE SBDC
As Tom accepted his award at the ASBDC National Conference in Atlanta, GA in early September, he was cheered on by our small-but-mighty team! Working alongside Tom has sharpened our program, strengthened our foundation, and driven us to continue being collaborative and supportive.
As Tom reflected on the experience, he shared that he “…didn’t expect getting chosen as State Star given how many talented and dedicated colleagues there are at the SBDC! I’m still surprised about being named!”
He shared that over the years, projects and initiatives he’s been involved with have been “really rewarding”, and that he enjoys “watching projects go from start to finish and helping clients through every step.”
“To use a distance run analogy, some projects can be more of a marathon through hilly terrain as we deal with different obstacles and issues that come up; however, seeing the end result and finished project despite those obstacles makes it all worthwhile.”
In Tom’s own words, “We have a lot of great business stories that we work on every year – I’m happy that I can do my part to help in economic development in Delaware.”
As we celebrate our Delaware State Star in 2024, we commend Tom for his relentless dedication and exceptional talent and know that these attributes continue to inspire others. Congratulations!
“Tom is a very high-performing individual. During his time at the SBDC, he has helped start over 40 businesses and helped clients secure over $13M in capital. His experience also makes him an excellent resource for the team, and he is always willing to help his colleagues. Enjoy your celebration at the conference! You have earned it.”
