Calvin Andrews, owner of Lena’s Soul Food Cafe, opened the restaurant because he wanted to share the cooking that he grew up on. The cafe is named after his mother who taught him and his three siblings how to cook. “We have the best soul food in town,” says Calvin. Lena’s Soul Food Cafe expanded at the start of 2017 to an additional location, and Calvin Andrews made sure to find his way back to Main Street Launch to take advantage of the services and opportunities.
“Working with Main Street Launch was better than I could have expected. It wasn’t formal or bank-like. They worked with me to restructure my first loan when my business was going through a tough time. It made me more comfortable that it was a partnership, a service for the community,” remembers Calvin. Calvin offers advice to aspiring entrepreneurs: “Consult with experts and ask them for resources. At Main Street Launch, I keep coming back for help, to get connected with restaurant consultants, and to take advantage of other resources available for my business. It has made a big difference in helping me become successful.”
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