Over the past year, what is it that we have all yearned for and ordered as take out so many times to bring comfort to us in times when we were too tired and too stressed?
What have we bought gift cards for, ordered or donated to give to those on the front lines taking care of us all? What industry has been one of the hardest hit, yet still are persevering in anyway possible due to the dedication of their repeat customers and their passion for what they do. Where is it that we can’t wait to go visit again and partake in their passion to bring comfort and joy to us all after such an unprecedented year?
The food industry has been devastated during the course of the pandemic. Some have made it through, and some decided to cut their losses and close their doors. I personally had the opportunity to work with so many local and culturally diverse entrepreneurs unafraid of pursuing the dream of bringing their cuisine to our community. Though the industry outlook was uncertain, and many difficult discussions took place, their passion and their 'why' far outweighed their apprehension.
I had the privilege to work with most of the stall owners at Salt City Market, a unique in-the-area food hall featuring culturally diverse cuisine, desserts, beverages and more. I saw these Foodpreneurs grow from their original concept development, to take out only pop-ups in 'With Love' on the Northside of Syracuse (when dine in was shut down), to teaching them what was necessary to obtain funding for their final stall concept in Downtown Syracuse. When asked about their experience of working with the Onondaga SBDC on their venture, here is what they said:
Firas Hashim, Baghdad Restaurant
Keyona has helped me open my business here in Syracuse - and taught me everything I know about business in America. I have known Keyona since 2017 and I owe her all my thanks.
- Firas Hashim, Baghdad Restaurant
Latoya Ricks, Erma's Island
As a single mom opening up a restaurant in a pandemic, getting a loan was really stressful. Keyona helped me balance my own investment with my loan request and make the best decision for my business.
- Latoya Ricks, Erma's Island
Fiona Barbour Day, Pie's The Limit
The Small Business Development Center is an invaluable resource offering information a new business owner won't easily find anywhere else. I can't recommend it enough to any aspiring entrepreneur.
- Fiona Barbour Day, Pie's The Limit
Dreamer Glen, Miss Prissy's
SBDC was extremely helpful. Keyona especially. She took her time to assist me with business plan consolidations and our financials. SBDC is a great asset to the Syracuse business community.
- Dreamer Glen, Miss Prissy's
Sleyrow Mason, SOULutions
Keyona is patient and honest and transparent. I can't recommend her highly enough for any first time entrepreneur.
- Sleyrow Mason, SOULutions
4926 Onondaga Road, Room 400, Syracuse, NY 13215
Phone number: 315.498.6070
Phone number: 315.498.6070
