Big Dreams in a Small Town: Dillenbecks Bring Double D Storage to Life in Newton

Larry Cain, Frida Dillenbeck, and Michael Goode stand outside Southside Bank. Photo courtesy of Stephen F. Austin State University.

What began as a heartfelt gesture to preserve a hometown legacy has blossomed into a thriving small business for Frida and Frank Dillenbeck — siblings, Stephen F. Austin State University alumni, and proud Newton natives.

Together, the Dillenbecks launched Double D Storage LLC, a self-storage business built on community ties, family values, and a whole lot of elbow grease. The facility, formerly known as Harold’s Storage, offers 132 self-storage units, a rental home, and a five-bay automotive shop.

Harold and Nelda Smith, longtime family friends, had operated the business for four decades. After Harold’s passing and Nelda’s decision to step back, the Dillenbecks saw an opportunity to carry the torch and invest back into their hometown.

To bring their vision to life, they turned to the Small Business Resource Hub (SBRH) at SFA’s Arnold Center for Entrepreneurship. Frida had recently reconnected with retired hub director Larry Cain and current ACE director Matthew Smilor during the 2023 Texas Downtown Conference in Nacogdoches.

That connection proved key. The hub helped build a comprehensive business plan and linked the siblings with Southside Bank, where president and SFA alumnus Michael Goode believed in their mission and financed the purchase.

Goode called the process seamless and praised the Dillenbecks' preparedness and commitment, noting they’ll be “a strong asset to Newton.”

Business is already booming — the storage units are 85% full, and the rental house was leased earlier this month.

“This has been a true win-win,” Frida said. “The hub and Michael were incredibly helpful and are still available when we have questions. Without this kind of support, many people wouldn’t be able to start a business. I’ve already shared their info with others in Newton.”

The Small Business Resource Hub provides free services to entrepreneurs and nonprofits across 12 Deep East Texas counties — including help with budgeting, business planning, marketing, and more.

“No matter where you are or what kind of dream you have — retail, farming, assisted living, events — we’re here to help,” said Smilor.

To learn more about the Small Business Resource Hub and the Arnold Center for Entrepreneurship, visit sfasu.edu/ace.