Mark O’Keefe and Dean Joy were fascinated by videos online of cleaning and sandblasting away dirt, grime, and graffiti. After doing a ton of research and working with CBDC Celtic to purchase essential equipment, the pair started their own sandblasting business, with a twist. 

Mark and Dean started D&M Enviro Mobile Blasting in the Goulds to offer environmentally-friendly resurfacing and cleaning for homes and businesses throughout the entire Avalon region.  

Shifting Sands 

The special techniques and equipment D&M Enviro Mobile Blasting use means there is no dusty mess to be cleaned up after, and the non-abrasive process means there’s no damage to the houses, vehicles, or heavy equipment Mark and Dean clean. They make it convenient for their clients by travelling to them and offering flexible, on-site services. 

For both Mark and Dean, they like being in control of their own success - making decisions and plans for the future together.   

“It means having to do hard work and know(ing) that, through this, we are bettering ourselves and company and offering our clients our best production work,” Mark says.   

One of the things that sets D&M Enviro Mobile Blasting apart from the competition, Dean says, is its commitment to environmentally-friendly practices. Their mobile sandblasting process is designed to minimize dust and debris, making it a safer and more sustainable option. 

They pride themselves on their flexibility and responsiveness, he says, working closely with their customers to understand their needs and deliver tailored solutions. 

Blast Away  

Meanwhile, starting a small business does come with challenges - especially the costs associated with purchasing specialized equipment, which is why Dean and Mark started D&M Enviro Mobile Blasting with a General Business Loan from CBDC Celtic.  

“They gave us the loan to start our dream and have been there to help us along the way with support and questions we have had along the way,” Mark says,  

The General Business Loan is just one of the many loans and other programs available to small business owners in Newfoundland and Labrador through CBDC. Wondering whether we have a program which could help you achieve your business goals? Get in touch to speak with one of our business advisors and discover programs which might work for you!