Like many entrepreneurs, Adrian Chavez, Sr. did not intend to start a security business.

Chavez created Lobo Protective Services in 2017 after working as a security guard to earn income while studying political science at university and paying for his wedding. It was working that job that he was approached by someone who noticed his work ethic and integrity.

“This woman said, ‘I never met someone like you in the industry. If you open your own company, I will hire you for my next project,’” Chavez recounted.

Chavez wasn’t well versed in the security field at the time, but he would hear that there weren’t many reputable or state-licensed security companies.

After that conversation and a discussion with his wife, Chavez decided to take the entrepreneurial leap. “It’s not rocket science. It’s doing good, doing what you say, and saying what you mean,” Chavez said.

A Budding Opportunity

At the time, New Mexico’s film industry was taking off and Lobo Protective Services secured security contracts on film sets. During the height of the pandemic when many businesses closed in 2020, the firm began to offer disinfection and sanitation to remain profitable. Now the Edgewood, NM, business provides security for Netflix and NBCUniversal studios in Albuquerque and other companies, and it has plans to expand in 2025 to Georgia, another U.S. film hub.

Chavez, who currently employs 48 people, says he has developed a good reputation by keeping up with state licensing and adhering to industry standards. He’s also a member of the New Mexico Professional Security Association, which holds its members accountable by offering standardized training and pay, business owner education, and best practices.

Timely Introduction

Chavez was introduced to the nonprofit lender The Loan Fund by the Albuquerque Hispano Chamber. A line of credit from The Loan Fund helped the business meet expenses during a film shoot that was underway and ending in 30 days.

“I wouldn’t be where I am today if it were not for The Loan Fund,” said Chavez.

The Loan Fund is a nonprofit Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) that provides loans and lines of credit to small businesses, business startups, and nonprofits throughout New Mexico that typically are unable to obtain financing through traditional lending sources. The Loan Fund also offers clients consulting and training services.

Over the last 30 years, The Loan Fund has made over $108 million in loans to New Mexico’s financially underserved small businesses, entrepreneurs and nonprofits, which have helped create or preserve over 11,500 jobs across the state.  

Read more about The Loan Fund, and contact them about your business financial needs. Learn more about Lobo Protective Services.

Article courtesy of The Loan Fund. It was edited for space considerations.