After 25 years of service in the Maryland National Guard, Gary Miller began a new mission: launching Sizzlin Pig BBQ in Aberdeen, Maryland.
Gary first connected with Maryland Small Business Development Center (SBDC) consultant Ryan Del Gallo through business training classes at the Converge Center. He quickly put what he learned into action, filing his LLC shortly after attending a January 2026 class.
From there, Gary worked one-on-one with the SBDC to develop his business plan and financial projections, explore SBA financing, and navigate key restaurant startup considerations, including construction, health department requirements, menu planning, bookkeeping, and point-of-sale systems. Gary also worked with the property owner and architect on the restaurant design and completed additional food-safety training.
By June 2026, Sizzlin Pig BBQ had secured approval for an SBA loan and business line of credit, providing the capital needed to continue moving toward launch.
Gary credits both SBDC's educational resources and individualized consulting with helping him navigate the process:
“Anyone thinking about starting a business should take full advantage of the many free sessions offered by SBDC: developing a business plan, lending resources, hiring employees, to name a few. Amazing is how I would characterize the individualized support from Ryan Del Gallo, who guided me through key steps to launch my new business, Sizzlin Pig BBQ.”
— Gary Miller, Sizzlin Pig BBQ
Gary’s journey demonstrates how preparation, persistence, and access to the right resources can help turn an entrepreneurial idea into a well-planned and financed business.
Posted: 09/29/2026