President and CEO Bill Gullickson shares what he loves about running a small business, his take on the state’s business climate and more.
What’s the history of your business?
Phyton Corp. was started by two professors at the University of Minnesota with the goal of developing a product that would combat Dutch Elm disease.
How many employees does Phyton have?
Four.
What sets your business apart from your competitors?
Our formulations are unique in that they are systemic delivery systems employing copper ions as their active ingredient.
What do you love most about running a small business?
The best part of running a small business is that no day is the same. There are always new things to learn and do, which is the best part of the day.
What kind of business climate does Minnesota have?
Awful! The attitude in government here from the governor on down is that all business is circumspect and needs the heavy hand of government to control every aspect of operating a business. Taxes are way too high. Public schools are dreadful and public infrastructure is starved for investment.
Why did you join NFIB?
To add my voice to the chorus that is trying to protect our free enterprise system.
In what ways has NFIB helped you and your business?
By at least introducing to our legislators the notion that people do not have to invest their money in businesses in this state. As for federally, NFIB works to get Congress to better understand that laws have consequences. As do budget deficits and taxes, etc. The biggest challenge here comes from dealing with the above government attitude.
How are you tackling that challenge?
That depends on which governmental agency I have to tackle. If it’s the EPA, for example, I have to do things exactly as they prescribe or they will deny me the license I need to sell my products. If we are fighting with the state of Minnesota’s revenue department, I am lucky enough to have a good CPA firm on my side. Local officials who come to inspect our building just take time. Same with state and federal inspectors.
What advice do you have for other small business owners?
Find a place where the concept of putting people to work and sharing the results of growing a business together is welcomed by the community at large.
