unleashing
national impact
igniting local
transformation
As a first-time business owner, Ashley faced significant hurdles in developing a comprehensive business plan, securing adequate funding, and negotiating favorable lease terms.
"The SBDC was crucial in helping me complete my business plan, establish operations, secure funding, and create a path for growth. Their guidance made it possible to turn my vision into reality."
Through SBDC's one-on-one consulting, Ashley gained the expertise to create viable financial projections, complete loan applications, and successfully navigate lease negotiations.
BAPA's Market secured $300,000 in capital financing and opened successfully on September 13, 2024. The launch created four new jobs and established the first natural food market in Chico's growing Meriam Park neighborhood, serving over 5,000 residents with fresh, local, and organic options.
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Construction projects obscured business visibility, while the departure of two key sous chefs threatened kitchen operations. Growing wholesale demand for authentic Korean products strained the cafe's production capacity, and the office park location limited foot traffic. Monica also needed to navigate complex business partnership restructuring while maintaining quality and daily operations.
"My SBDC Food Business Advisor is a true sage in the food industry. With her guidance, I was able to move quicker through challenges and get to market faster. She helped me bring my dream into reality and now I have products sold in stores across the Bay Area and a cafe in San Rafael."
SBDC advisors helped Monica implement a comprehensive turnaround strategy. The team secured city council support for construction impact, developed new hiring protocols leading to two successful staff additions, and created expansion plans through co-packing partnerships. Advisors also prepared marketing strategies to leverage an upcoming national TV opportunity.
SAN Korean Kitchen achieved a 50% revenue increase in 2024. It expanded wholesale distribution to 11 Bay Area retailers, including Woodlands and Mill Valley Market, and doubled their staff. The business transformed from a hidden local spot to a recognized destination for authentic Korean cuisine, earning selection as a finalist for a national food reality show.
With limited assets and credit history, Grace and Oliver struggled to secure funding for inventory expansion. Hand-printing all products created production bottlenecks while the transitioning from brick-and-mortar to e-commerce required rapid adaptation to new business models.
"Our SBDC Advisor changed the course of our business when we were in a really hard spot."
SBDC advisors helped develop compelling financial projections, facilitate introductions to multiple lenders, and create strategies for sustainable growth. The team guided their transition to online sales through social media marketing and strategic participation in farmers' markets and maker events.
Yarrow Goods secured $138,000 in total funding from five sources, including $100,000 from Pacific Community Ventures. The business achieved a 20% sales increase while maintaining their commitment to handmade, sustainable production. Their success has positioned them for expansion with plans to acquire automated equipment for increased production capacity.
