Talbert Lawn Services in Little Rock, Arkansas, has become a key community business, transforming landscapes and lives. Founded in 2015 by Allicia Adams-Talbert, it was born out of necessity.
Allicia’s husband couldn’t find a job because of a felony conviction from his youth. Despite many job applications, he kept getting rejected.
“People would not give him a second chance,” Allicia said. “I went and bought a weed eater and a push mower. I told him, I said, ‘If nobody will hire you, I will.’ We’ve been rolling ever since then.”
What started as a small operation has grown into a successful business offering second-chance employment. Talbert Lawn Services specializes in landscaping and groundskeeping in Little Rock and nearby areas.
“I get to take my kids with me and show them what their mom and dad are doing out here to provide for them,” Talbert said. “They understand that this money is not growing on trees.”
Talbert Lawn Services recently secured a contract with the City of Little Rock to service their Emergency Communications property and three 911 cell towers from April to September 2024.
The new contract, along with an existing deal with Pulaski Heights Baptist Church and more residential clients, has set the business up for significant growth. To handle the demand, Allicia needed new equipment.
She turned to the Arkansas Women’s Business Fund Guarantee and connected with Deborah Temple, the former Director of Lending at Communities Unlimited (CU). Temple referred her to CU’s Lending Team.
Talbert worked with CU Small Business Lender Candence Brooks on a Small Business Administration (SBA) loan, which closed on May 1, 2024.
Talbert is now ready to grow her business. At a recent Arkansas Economic Development Council event, she connected with state entities and colleges needing lawn services. “I’m looking to grow my business even more and foster new relationships,” she said.
Talbert’s new website lets clients schedule, book, and pay online. She is also working with a University of Central Arkansas research group to study how support groups help minority businesses.
Beyond business, Allicia helps young entrepreneurs. Partnering with Trades for Life, she recently donated a startup lawn kit to a 14-year-old. “We show young people how to make a living with their hands,” she said.
Through hard work and community focus, Allicia has grown Talbert Lawn Services into a successful business that beautifies and transforms lives. Talbert says she couldn’t have gotten this far without the support of CU.
“It’s been a great experience working with Communities Unlimited,” Talbert said. “I’ve learned so much because, although I’m familiar with banks, I didn’t realize CU functioned as one. This opened new resources for me, and now I can share this valuable information with others who have businesses like mine. Many of us are self-funded or bootstrapped, and it’s hard to get funding due to credit issues or past mistakes.
