Donnell Sneed, the owner of Grotto Hall Rental, has carved a unique niche in the event space industry with his entrepreneurial spirit and community-oriented approach. His journey, marked by perseverance and strategic support from the Stark County Minority Business Association (SCMBA), is a testament to the power of mentorship and resource accessibility in achieving business success.

The Beginning
Sneed’s entrepreneurial journey began in Akron, where he and his wife initially ventured into the event space business in 2007. Their business started small, but by 2016, they had taken on the significant responsibility of property ownership. “We started out in Akron, and we still have our location there. We’ve been in the event space business for a long time, but it wasn’t until 2016 that we started owning our own buildings,” Sneed recounts.

This dual business model, combining his wife’s ultrasound services with the event space, proved innovative and effective. “At the same location, we have a side where we do ultrasounds and another side for event spaces,” Sneed explains. This integration offered a stable revenue stream and diversified their business portfolio.

Expanding Horizons to Canton
Seeing an opportunity for growth, Sneed expanded his business to Canton by acquiring a property on Sixth Street pre-pandemic, leveraging favorable market conditions. “The prices weren’t as high as they are now, so we saw an expansion opportunity and went for it,” he says. This move, however, came with its own set of challenges, particularly in establishing a market presence in a new city.

Community Support through SCMBA
The support from SCMBA’s Expanding Resources for All (ERA) program has been crucial for Sneed. “I credit SCMBA for connecting us with our mentor, Susan Campbell, a professional in the event space industry,” Sneed acknowledges. Her expertise has helped refine his business strategies and boost profitability.

Products and Services at Grotto Hall Rental
Grotto Hall Rental offers a range of services for various events, including a banquet hall with a full-service kitchen, tables, chairs, and outdoor space. “We cater to weddings, baby showers, birthday parties, and more,” Sneed describes. They also offer inflatables, mechanical cars, and decorating options tailored to clients’ themes.

The Future of Grotto Hall Rental
Sneed aims to scale his business and reach new market segments. “We do well in the Hispanic and African American communities, but we want to reach further into other markets,” he shares. Collaborations with SCMBA and potential partnerships with the Canton Regional Chamber will be key to this expansion.

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Sneed advises new entrepreneurs to conduct thorough market research. “Understand your competition and what the market commands for fees based on your offerings,” he emphasizes. This step is essential for positioning a business strategically for profitability.

A Collaborative Community Effort
Sneed’s journey highlights the importance of community support and mentorship. “SCMBA has been a great partner, always trying to help people,” Sneed reflects.