SBDC Partnership Supports Growth of Family-Owned Business

With support from the Houston Small Business Development Center (SBDC), owner Brandi Harleaux has transformed South Post Oak Recycling Center (SPORC) into a modernized, thriving operation that recently achieved its highest revenue in nearly three decades. 

Building on a Family Legacy

Founded in 1994 by Harleaux’s father and mother, SPORC began as a small family business specializing in non-ferrous metal recycling. When Harleaux joined the company in 2013 as the Chief Operating Officer, she became the bridge between the first and second generations of leadership. 

Coming from a professional background in human resources with Fortune 500 companies—including Disney, Northrop Grumman and Target—she sought guidance from the Houston SBDC in 2013 on how to strengthen SPORC for long-term growth. Smith provided resources for creating a marketing plan, identifying target markets and sharpening her business strategy.

When her parents prepared to retire in 2017, Harleaux returned to the SBDC for assistance with succession planning. Smith connected her with legal, financial and valuation resources, as well as networking opportunities to support her transition into ownership. As the business scaled, Smith also introduced her to the Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center (TMAC) to assist with safety and efficiency improvements.

Business Resilience and Recognition

Today, under Harleaux’s leadership, SPORC is focused on expanding its capabilities, fleet and reach both domestically and nationally. The Houston SBDC continues to support the company with marketing resources, workforce development tools and guidance during challenging times. 

Since its early years as a 13-person operation, SPORC has grown to a 30-member team, built a strong leadership and management bench and achieved its highest revenue in 28 years under Harleaux’s leadership. In recognition of her success, Harleaux was named the SBA Texas Small Business Person of the Year in 2023 and has since been honored by multiple organizations. 

Reflecting on her experience, Harleaux described the Houston SBDC as a trusted partner. 

“The Houston SBDC provided valuable insight and resources, connecting me with industry experts and organizations like TMAC to streamline our safety and efficiency while scaling the business... I would highly recommend the Houston SBDC.” 

Watch Brandi’s video testimonial to hear how she worked with the SBDC to modernize South Post Oak Recycling Center and lead it to record growth.

South Post Oak Recycling Center (SPORC), based in Houston, is a trusted recycling partner for households, businesses and government entities, with a commitment to sustainability and making recycling accessible, efficient and beneficial for its customers.