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In episode five of Small Business Stories, hosted by the Monroe Chamber of Commerce and Louisiana Catalyst, the spotlight shined on Deron Talley, founder of Key Marketing Solutions and a driving force behind Louisiana Catalyst. Talley’s story is deeply rooted in faith, family, and the belief that solving problems for others is the true heart of entrepreneurship.
From Journalist to Entrepreneur
Talley’s career began not in a boardroom but in a newsroom. After graduating from the University of Louisiana Monroe, he was quickly promoted to editor of a local paper at age 22. The role provided a behind-the-scenes education in business operations, advertising, and content strategy. More importantly, it ignited a passion for storytelling—one that would later define his entrepreneurial mission.
“I realized I could turn my mind into money,” said Talley. “Content has value, and so does the ability to tell a story that moves people.”
The Birth of Key Marketing Solutions
In 2017, after several years working with entrepreneurs through the Louisiana Small Business Development Center (SBDC), Talley founded Key Marketing Solutions. His mission was clear: provide ethical, affordable, and practical marketing services to small businesses, faith-based organizations, and nonprofits.
“We weren’t in it to get rich off one client,” Talley explained. “We were in it to solve real problems—and still are.”
Talley noticed that many marketing agencies overcharged small business owners or failed to deliver usable solutions. Key Marketing Solutions was built to fill that gap by offering web development, social media strategy, branding, and storytelling services that help businesses grow without overwhelming their budgets.
Faith as Foundation
Talley’s faith plays a central role in his work. His early clients were churches and nonprofit groups that mirrored the struggles of traditional small businesses—limited budgets, unclear messaging, and lack of digital tools. His work in ministry created space to apply marketing in ways that aligned with his personal values.
“Using marketing as a tool for ministry and community building—this is part of my calling,” said Talley. “It’s about discipleship through strategy.”
He emphasized that pricing at Key Marketing Solutions reflects this mission. With multiple income streams in his household, he doesn’t rely on the agency for personal financial gain—allowing him to focus on service and sustainability.
A Leader at Louisiana Catalyst
Beyond his business, Talley is a cornerstone of Louisiana Catalyst, a nonprofit initiative designed to boost entrepreneurship and collaboration across Northeast Louisiana. When approached by fellow leader Quentin Durr with the opportunity, Talley didn’t hesitate.
“Quentin said, ‘I’ve got a dream—it doesn’t pay anything.’ I still said yes,” he laughed.
Louisiana Catalyst, much like Key Marketing Solutions, exists to identify gaps and connect the dots—between chambers, businesses, nonprofits, and public agencies. Talley sees this ecosystem-building effort as essential to community success.
“I don’t believe in competition the way most people do,” he said. “We’re links in a chain. Everyone brings value. Collaboration over competition—that’s our model.”
Why Visibility Matters
Talley believes that just being seen together—Catalyst leaders, chamber directors, and entrepreneurs—helps build credibility. “When people see us with the Monroe Chamber, they understand that this isn’t just talk. We’re working together,” he said.
The group hopes that increased visibility will inspire others to engage, whether they’re a business owner, aspiring entrepreneur, or nonprofit leader.
“If there’s no seat at the table, we’ll bring a chair,” Talley emphasized. “That’s what Catalyst is all about.”
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