Milagros de Mexico
Mauricio Simbeck was inspired to open Milagros de Mexico, a health and wellness retain chain, because of his desire to bring resources to an underserved community in Oakland.
MeetGeraldine
Now, their newest venture, MeetGeraldine, offers their clients the best of both of their brains: digital strategy and development from Geraldine and planning and branding support from Lauren.
Emmy’s Spaghetti Shack
Emmy’s Spaghetti Shack, located on 3230 Mission Street in San Francisco, is the culmination of Emily Kaplan’s life-long career working in the restaurant business and was almost a lost dream.
Dark Garden
“We’re a place where people can feel at home while making a living,” says Autumn.
Back to the Roots
Back to the Roots has a staff of 15 who are working to “undo food”, leading a new wave of food that demands total transparency about ingredient sources of what’s on the table.
Oakland Chop Bar
“I had lived in this neighborhood for five years before opening Oakland Chop Bar and I really felt we needed a place where people could walk from their homes, have a great meal and just hang out together,” said Pastena.
The Octopus Literary Salon
Outgrowing the living rooms that previously held events, the new space hosts musicians, performances, and literary events, reinterpreting the literary salon to fit the 21st century.
Noble Brewer
For Noble Brewer, it’s more than just craft beer but creating a unique experience by sharing the story of the homebrewers with friends and family. While stationed in Seattle and then in San Diego, Claude took advantage of the great beer scenes, developing a deeper interest in craft beer.
Laurel Book Store
Luan Stauss, the owner of Laurel Book Store, started her business to build community. She said, “We truly want to be ‘Your Neighborhood Bookstore in Downtown Oakland.’”
BAS Consulting
Donald Stukes launched his second business, BAS Consulting, in 2009, offering management, scientific, and technical consulting. Currently, some of his clients include CalTrans of Southern California, the Department of Energy, and Battelle. BAS Consulting works with other consultants, bringing as many as six onto one project last year. Helping to connect other entrepreneurs with opportunities is a big part of his business model.
