Native Organic Cotton
Co-founder and co-owner Marc W. Chase says, “My ancestors are French and they were in the textiles industry in the Old World. I started this business because it’s in my blood.”
Aburaya
Aburaya is special since it offers the community casual dining options and quick service, without the social and ethical consequences of corporate fast food.
Blue Heron Catering
Blue Heron Catering, Inc. has been serving the Oakland community for 30 years since their establishment in 1988. They cater for a variety of events in the community, including programs for non-profits, weddings, corporate events, socials, and basically anything you can think of that involves food. You can catch them serving at local venues such…
BIBO Salon
BIBO is a hair and beauty salon located on 2509 Broadway in the Uptown District. The owners, Susie Geda and Kech Carera, both have strong ties to Oakland and the East Bay community. Susie has over 27 years of experience in hairstyling, working previously at a shop in Rockridge. Kech is an East Bay native,…
Wine & Design
“For anyone who wants to open a business,” Tina explains, “You have to be patient, be out there, and do a lot of outreach. Wherever I go, I always talk about my business or wear its merch to promote the store.”
Sugar Sweet Cookie + Cake Studio
Growing up, David Benton, the owner of Sugarsweet Cookie and Cake Studio, was not exposed to baking. He went on to California Culinary School to become a chef. During his studies there, he took an introductory baking class and immediately fell in love with it. After the 2008 recession, he lost his job and started…
Vita
Vita is a boutique fitness studio specializing in yoga, pilates, and barre. They offer classes that range from gentle to power to intense cardio. Vita is a great place to pursue your fitness goals and build community. Katy Winter opened Vita in 2017 after changing careers. “I was working in finance, but I knew…
Illumino Lashes
Since its start, Illumino has been a self-supported spa service business, and Soo-Jin had never received outside investment until her loan with Main Street Launch. Sensing it was time to shift Illumino away from direct services and increase its product reach, Soo-Jin sought the loan to fund her business’ transition.
Lungomare
Growing up, Chris Pastena spent a lot of time around the dining table at his grandmother’s house, sharing food with his loved ones. Whenever he thinks of family, he thinks of food and dining, and as a result, he created his three restaurants, Lungomare, Calavera and Chop Bar, to offer people places to come together…
Nyum Bai
Coming to the United States as a refugee from Cambodia, Nite Yun opened Nyum Bai to commemorate her parents as well as celebrate Cambodian food and culture, especially its Golden Era. “Nyum Bai is a place for everyone to hang and jam out to 60s Cambodian rock music,” says Nite. “The food that the…