Mattapoisett Wellness Center

Jessica Cavaco Dagnello [photo] always wanted to be an entrepreneur. As a licensed massage therapist, she worked at several spas before deciding it was time to do it on her own.

With the help and support of the Massachusetts SBDC - Southeast Region, Jessica took the plunge in 2015 and opened the Mattapoisett Wellness Center in Mattapoisett. In 2019, she bought the building and expanded the business to include seven other practitioners, as well as a studio for different wellness programs. The building was funded by a $515,000 SBA 504 loan from SEED Corporation and Rockland Trust.

"The Massachusetts SBDC gave me the hope and encouragement to know what was possible," Jessica said. As the daughter of immigrants from St. Michael in the Azores, Jessica said that from a very young age she had to work hard and wanted to achieve. "It’s the American dream, fulfilled," she said. "I was in my 20’s and knew I was devoted to wellness. The Massachusetts SBDC always went the extra mile and helped me stay optimistic."

Over the years the Massachusetts SBDC has helped with not only the purchase of the building, but ongoing assistance with pricing, marketing, tenant retention, and COVID programs. Jessica was able to make use of several CARES Act programs. "That, and a supportive husband, kept the business going in a tough time."

The Mattapoisett Wellness Center offers massage, reiki, mental health counseling, and other services as well as a full slate of yoga and other programs in its spacious studio. Through the years, more than 15 businesses have been in the Center. “I’m offering others the chance to fulfill their dreams, too," Jessica states. "We currently have seven practitioner’s offices in the building, plus my own. The Massachusetts SBDC is always there to support me."

Jessica signs every email “With gratitude,” which represents her approach to business and life.