A ribbon cutting and “2nd Dollar of Profit” presentation was held for Merianna Berens by the Parker Development Corporation and Southeast

Enterprise Facilitation Project.  Those present to hear all about the business are (l to r): Justin O’Keefe, John McDonald, Nancy Larsen, Mark

Joffer, Merianna, Paul Engbrecht, Duane Tieszen, Lisa Carlson and Mark Kasten.  Not shown is Mark Slade of the Small Business Development

Center.                                                                                                                    Picture is courtesy of Southeastern Electric Cooperative Inc.

COMPANY:  Berens Insurance Agency Inc.

OWNER:  Merianna Berens

LOCATION:  Parker

PHONE:  (605) 297-2013   berens@iw.net

NUMBER OF JOBS:  1

BACKGROUND:  Merianna began selling insurance before she graduated from the University of Sioux Falls.  She formed a working relationship with Darla Tieszen and continued to build the insurance business.  Paul Engbrecht indicated his desire to sell his book of insurance business and this became an opportunity for Merianna Berens’ company to expand the business. 

ASSISTANCE REQUESTED:  Business Plan

RESULTS:  An Expanded Business

QUOTABLE:  “The business planning and funding assistance I received from Nancy Larsen, SEFP and Mark Slade, SBDC has allowed me to expand my insurance business in the Parker and Marion communities.  Their assistance with goal setting and financial projections has been very beneficial to me.”