
BACKGROUND
Sugar Mediterranean Bistro is now open as a full-service restaurant. They have an Italian food menu, serve craft beers, and provide entertainment on selected evenings throughout the week.
CHALLENGES
Juan came to the San Joaquin Delta College SBDC with the challenges that many startups face. He was looking for financing and general startup assistance.
ACTIONS
SBDC consultants provided Juan input on business plan development, gave general startup advice, and helped the client identify and complete the necessary regulatory requirements to start his restaurant. They spent a lot of time going over possible financing options, including equipment leasing/financing, alternative lenders, etc. Once Juan was able to secure funding SBDC consultants also gave input on developing and implementing marketing plans.
RESULTS
Along with his own contribution of $200,000, Juan secured equipment financing from several sources totaling $49,000. The restaurant opened in November 2018 and hired 23 employees.