Client Success Story: Tonya Milligan, Rent-A-Theme Entertainment

Jill Johnson
7 days ago
2 min read

The Entrepreneur's Challenge: A Mission on Mute

Tonya Milligan, the passionate entrepreneur behind Rent-A-Theme Entertainment, had a thriving small business dedicated to bringing joyful, inclusive play to communities across Colorado. Despite offering amazing experiences, she faced a critical challenge that threatened her growth: her delivery truck—the vehicle carrying her mission—was completely unmarked. It was a massive, silent, missed opportunity.

Sales were lagging, and Tonya urgently needed a highly visible, mobile way to promote her services. The goal was clear: wrapping the truck to transform every delivery into a rolling billboard that could reach families, schools, and businesses. Tonya knew this was the key to boosting awareness and sales, but she needed strategic clarity and, crucially, access to capital.

The IFEL Solution: High-Touch Guidance, Capital, and Partnership

Our high-touch support for Tonya began with an introduction to CEO Jill Johnson, who ensured Tonya was seamlessly connected to the Business Support group. From the time of that initial meeting, we have been there to support her every step of the way.

“IFEL provided the clarity, tools, and support I needed to think more strategically about growth,” Tonya shares. Through workshops and one-on-one sessions, we helped Tonya focus on positioning her business for funding opportunities. Through our Capital Catalyst program, we guided her through the process of launching a crowdfunding campaign on Kiva which resulted in her securing a $5,000 0% interest loan.

The Momentum & The Miracle: A Rolling Billboard Success

Using the capital from a successful fundraising campaign, Tonya implemented her new messaging and outreach strategies which caught the attention of a highly respected marketing company. This company, moved by Rent-A-Theme’s mission and Tonya's professional clarity, generously volunteered to take on the design of the truck wrap graphics.

“This would not have happened without the guidance and encouragement we received from IFEL,” Tonya states. This huge win elevated her brand presence, allowing her to turn every single delivery into a powerful mobile marketing opportunity.