SoCal VBOC Success Story: MGN Online
After decades of experience in media production and visual communications, Ed Clemente began his entrepreneurial journey by purchasing his employer’s company, Multimedia Graphics Network (MGN Online), a company that has become a trusted provider of digital news graphics and visual content for broadcast television, digital media, and academic institutions.
With a legacy spanning more than 45 years, MGN Online delivers ready-to-use still graphics, animations, maps, and visual storytelling assets that help media organizations communicate information quickly and effectively. Their content supports fast-paced newsrooms and organizations that rely on high-quality visuals to engage audiences and simplify complex information.
As a service-disabled veteran, Ed brings discipline, adaptability, and leadership, but now, as business owner while continuing to evolve MGN Online in an increasingly digital and competitive marketplace.
To begin his entrepreneurial dream, Ed connected with the Southern California Veterans Business Outreach Center (SoCal VBOC).
Through one-on-one advising and strategic business discussions, SoCal VBOC helped Ed evaluate growth pathways, explore funding opportunities to purchase MGN, and identify resources available to veteran-owned businesses.
Wes Pawl, SoCal VBOC’s lending expert, assisted Mr. Clemente in securing SBA-backed financing through U.S. Bank, including an approved SBA loan and a line of credit to support the acquisition and continued growth of the business.
With decades of industry experience and a continued commitment to innovation, Ed is positioning Multimedia Graphics Network for its next chapter of growth while continuing to provide high-quality visual solutions to organizations across the country.
“We’ve spent years helping organizations communicate visually,” Ed says. “Now we’re focused on building the next phase of the business and continuing to evolve with the industry.”
Areas of Assistance
Business Acquisition
SBA Lending Assistance
Business Plan Development
Veteran Business Counseling
Economic Impact
Purchased an Existing Business
Retained All Full-Time Jobs
Preserved a 45-Year Legacy Business
Secured SBA Financing
Veteran-Owned Business Expansion
Business Continuity for 500+ Media Affiliates
Location
Cardiff by the Sea, California
For me, VBOC was an invaluable resource. As a disabled veteran, I began researching the programs and support available to veterans when the opportunity arose to purchase the company I had worked for. Through that search, I was introduced to VBOC and connected with Wes Paul.
Wes and his team played an integral role in my journey by connecting me with Chris Rodewald, Vice President of SBA Lending at U.S. Bank. Their guidance, support, and willingness to help opened doors that ultimately made my business acquisition possible.
Without VBOC, Wes, and Chris, I truly do not believe I would have achieved the tremendous goal of purchasing MGN Online. I am incredibly grateful for their assistance and the impact they have had on my life, my family, and my future as a business owner.
MGN Online – Ed Clemente, honoring a 45-year legacy and building the future of digital media
Founded in 1982, MGN Online (Multimedia Graphic Network, Inc.) is a leading provider of visual content solutions for Broadcast Television, Digital News Organizations (Newspapers / Radio), and Academic Institutions throughout the United States and Canada. MGN delivers a comprehensive library of News Graphics, Animations, Photos, Templates, and Creative Tools designed to help News Oorganizations produce compelling content quickly and efficiently.
Serving more than 500 News Affiliates, MGN’s products include MGNpro, BMOpro (Build My Own), MGNcms (Content Management System), and MGNnpp (News Photo Protection), providing clients with access to professional visual storytelling resources, content management solutions, and news photo licensing protection. With a reputation built on innovation, customer service, and long-term partnerships, MGN helps media professionals enhance their content while streamlining newsroom workflows.
Now under the leadership of President & CEO Ed Clemente, MGN continues its mission of empowering broadcasters, publishers, and content creators with the tools they need to inform, engage, and inspire their audiences.
