In Her Own Words: Vision, grit and an SBA 504 loan led Valerie Ramirez to her LA dream property

Valerie Ramirez, founder of Los Angeles–based Lab Studios, was recently featured in The Business Journals’ BizWomen, sharing her journey from launching a dance studio at 17 to leading a full-service creative talent agency. After pivoting during the pandemic, Ramirez strategically relocated closer to Los Angeles’ creative hub and pursued ownership of a commercial property to support her company’s growth.

With guidance from trusted partners, she utilized SBA 504 financing through TMC Financing to purchase and transform a previously underdeveloped building into a permanent home for her business. The financing provided long-term, fixed-rate stability, allowing Ramirez to invest confidently in Lab’s future.

Today, ownership gives Ramirez the ability to build equity while creating a space that reflects her company’s creativity and vision. Her story highlights the power of adaptability, strong partnerships, and access to smart financing in helping small business owners turn long-term goals into reality.