Success Stories
3 Generations of Innovation & Sustainability, of Love and Light: FTS Lighting Services
“a product and service that is superior to anybody else.”
Michele Davidson’s entrepreneurial spirit has been her guiding light throughout life, a light that’s remained luminous for generations. After making her mark by founding a successful paralegal firm and curating culinary experiences as a restaurateur, Michele came home to lead the family business. Now having been the President and CEO of FTS Lighting Services for the past four decades, this intergenerational spirit of innovation has provided the needed resilience to adapt her business model amidst rapid technological advancement and industry-wide shifts. FTS Lighting Services is a one-stop shop for all lighting, recycling, and electrical needs. From commercial electrical products to energy saving analysis, lighting design, as well as retrofit and installation services, FTS specializes in helping clients overcome their energy and sustainability challenges. They offer a vast variety of energy conservation and sustainability options that are tailored to customer needs. FTS is also a trusted partner to many who need to stay informed on the latest technology and government or utility incentives that shape the lighting landscape on state and local levels.
FTS is a third-generation company, and one of the first Women-Owned Businesses in the industry. The company traces its roots back to her grandfather’s invention of a rejuvenating machine for fluorescent tubes. Reflecting on their journey, Michele shares, “My company started with my grandfather…back in the 40s, and my grandmother took over the business in the early 50s.” Despite pressures to shift from being a competitive company to a distributor, FTS Lighting flourished into a prominent lighting solutions provider, serving across sectors.
Facing a decline in return business with the rise of long-life LEDs, Michele pivoted toward sustainability initiatives. She explains, “I developed a sustainability company where we were a turnkey solution.” This shift led to project-driven operations and an expansion into emerging markets such as EV car charging. Michele’s strategic networking forged impactful partnerships, unlocking opportunities in the federal marketplace, including collaborations with the Department of Defense and tribal communities. Looking back, Michele reflects that “networking has been key.”
Michele’s journey with Pacific Community Ventures (PCV) began when she was introduced by our CDFI partners at Mission Driven Finance. By connecting with the PCV Business Advising program, Michele found invaluable support in navigating the new and rapidly changing business landscape. As she reflects on her experience with PCV, Michele describes PCV Business Advising as, “a product and service that is superior to anybody else.” She further emphasizes the significance of the mentorship she received through PCV, highlighting her weekly meetings with her “seasoned” advisor. Michele shares, “The gentleman I’m working with is a brilliant man.” This mentorship extended beyond traditional business advice, delving into joint ventures and financial intricacies like EBITDA, providing Michele with the guidance she needed to weather challenges, seize opportunities, and secure more capital.
In 2023, amidst economic uncertainty and awaiting payments from various projects, Michele’s decision to apply for a Good & Green loan through PCV marked a pivotal moment in her entrepreneurial journey. This strategic move not only provided much-needed capital to FTS, it also exemplified PCV’s dedication to sustainability-focused businesses. Michele’s experience highlights the importance of expanding access to resources and mentorship for entrepreneurs navigating intricate business terrains. With the infusion of funds, Michele was able to strategically allocate resources toward working capital, marketing initiatives, and expanding her team. The funding helped position FTS to compete for new contracts involving the installation of energy efficient lighting as building owners across California begin to take actions to comply with the State’s mandate prohibiting fluorescent tubes in 2024/2025. Notably, the inclusion of new hires from the State of California WorkForce Program reflects Michele’s commitment to community empowerment by hiring employees from HubZone areas. Michele’s journey exemplifies resilience through adaptability and also underscores the transformative impact of strategic partnerships, and mentorship in driving sustainable business success. As she carries forward this legacy of resilience and innovation, her greatest wish remains steadfast: to make a positive change for the environment and humanity, brightening the world one day at a time.
Visit www.pacificcommunityventures.org to learn more about our Good & Green Loan and Business Advising services.
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