Shanna Ullmann is the founding partner of Transformation Partners LLC, which offers specialized consulting, leadership development, and employee learning programs to empower federal government, U.S. military, higher education, and corporate clients. Established in 2000 as a statewide training provider, the firm has significantly grown, now providing services across the country and internationally. Over the years, Transformation Partners evolved from a small one-room office to a full-scale facility for planning and training implementation.
In 2020, the firm faced substantial setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with reduced client engagement leading to a drop in sales and operational strain. To stabilize operations, Transformation Partners secured an SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan, enabling them to remain functional. They adapted by offering discounted services and free advisory support, which helped rebuild relationships and attract new business. By leveraging support from the Alabama APEX Accelerator, the firm secured a major contract with the Department of Defense in 2023. This resulted in a recovery and a 63% increase in new client engagements by 2023, with revenues reaching $525,000 and employees growing from three to fourteen. In recognition of their success and contributions, Transformation Partners was honored as the 2024 Alabama Small Business Person of the Year.