Success Story: HC Tax & Accounting, Bismarck 

HC Tax & Accounting – Bismarck, 2021

Hector Collazo has a passion for numbers. He earned a bachelor’s in accounting and has experience from work at Cloverdale’s where he manages the accounting for the maintenance department.

Ten years ago, Collazo’s boss opened his own internet company, inspiring Hector to follow in his footsteps and open his own business as well. He saw the appeal in having an occupation in something that he loves to do and set forward to make it happen.
Collazo knew that he would need guidance in the startup process. He heard about the North Dakota Small Business Development Centers from the Secretary of State in Bismarck.

Collazo states, “I was drawn towards the ND SBDC after I heard about the program because I was looking for experienced personnel that were knowledgeable about what it takes to open a business.” He knew that the Bismarck Center would have these qualities, and that it would make his path easier.

After working with the ND SBDC, Hector said, “They were effective and provided the information I needed.” He was able to open HC Tax & Accounting as a result and is very appreciative of that. Collazo has since recommended the ND SBDC to several other friends looking to open businesses of their own.

HC Tax & Accounting specializes in bookkeeping and taxes. While Hector’s business has been open less than a year, he has found success

already. Hector is glad that he went through with this startup process because he loves getting to be his own boss.

The most challenging thing for him so far has been having to refresh his knowledge here and there on items he doesn’t routinely deal with or changing tax codes. Other than that, the business has run smoothly. Currently, he is able to operate his business out of his home. However, his longer-term plan consists of having a brick and mortar location.

Hector’s time working with the ND SBDC gave him some good insight on the startup process. Collazo shared a piece of advice that he stands by, “Don’t be afraid of trying, even if you fail, because the mistakes and the failures is how you really learn.”