Persistence Pays Off

How Kirk Bagger Transformed Captains Car Service Through Persistence and the 10KSB Program

Kirk Bagger, owner of Captains Car Service in Middleburg Heights, defines persistence. After two rejections and a deferral, he finally joined the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses (10KSB) program at Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C®) . That step proved transformative for both him and his company after he completed the program in 2024.

Before launching Captains Car Service, Bagger was the general manager of a major limousine service. His transition from employee to entrepreneur was driven by a desire to deliver unparalleled customer service — creating not just transportation but also memorable luxury experiences for both retail and corporate clients.

"Our approach goes beyond simply getting clients from point A to point B," Bagger says. "We create a luxury experience that's unmatched."

The 10KSB program provided a practical playbook for business growth.

"Participating in the 10KSB program was transformative, offering invaluable insights into strategic planning, financial management and leadership development," Bagger says.

He credits the experience with sharpening his financial oversight, streamlining operations and building a culture of continuous improvement. Plus, the program's networking component connected him with a support system of fellow entrepreneurs.

"The networking opportunities introduced me to a community of peers and experts, offering invaluable insights and collaboration prospects," he says.

As a U.S. Navy veteran, Bagger brings discipline and meticulous attention to detail to Captains Car Service. With the tools and confidence he gained from the program, Bagger aims to grow annual income by 15 to 20% over the next five years.

He encourages other entrepreneurs to keep applying to 10KSB, even if they aren't accepted right away.

"Keep applying," he says. "The comprehensive growth and improvements from 10KSB have fundamentally strengthened my business, laying a solid groundwork for the future."

Learn more about Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses on its website.

October 31, 2025

By Anthony Moujaes, 216-987-3068 or anthony.moujaes@tri-c.edu