IXIA
“Since I was a kid, I’ve always charted my own path, so I decided to create my own opportunities,” says Cheri. “There have been serious challenges, but I know I have to follow my passion and find people to help me achieve my goals.”
Freedom Makers
“My brother is in the Air Force, and my sister-in-law and I were having a familiar conversation about what she was going to do for work. I developed Freedom Makers to try and develop more opportunities within my community,” explains Laura.
Crooked City Cider
“My great uncles inspired me to own a business,” remembers Dana. Liquor was illegal in the early 1930, and the Bushouse brothers, John and Peter created a moonshine production that was successful back at the time. Eventually they were forced to end their business, but generations later, Dana decided to follow her great uncles’ footstep, using the family knowledge to create her unique cider recipes for everybody to enjoy.
The Hair Gym Academy & Salon
“The process takes time, but it is a good learning experience. It was pleasant to work with Main Street Launch, and they provided us with lots of support and help,” remembers Daniel.
Bardo (formerly Michel Bistro)
“Become an expert in knocking on the doors of those who are experts in everything business related. They will help you fill in the gaps of starting or growing your business so you can go forward with allies and develop relationships with people committed to your success.”
Serenity Skin Care
“I encourage all startup businesses in need to apply for loans. I was hesitant at the beginning because of the time-consuming application process and paper-work. After going through the process, the loan helped me feel ready, and it allowed me to make improvement to my business,” explains Kamilah.
Degrees Plato
“My brother is in the Air Force, and my sister-in-law and I were having a familiar conversation about what she was going to do for work. As a brat and in the military I have many friends who have faced the same challenge when their spouse is transferred, so I developed Freedom Makers to try and develop more opportunities within my community,” explains Laura.
Remedy Barre + Foam Rolling
Remedy Barre and Foam Rolling is Oakland’s newest barre studio, freshening up barre in Oakland. Their barre classes give you the strength you’re looking for while providing the release you need through foam rolling.
Roses’ Taproom
Roses’ Taproom partners with other local businesses. “We are not just distributing our beer to other restaurants, we also serve food from the business in our neighborhood!”
Water Saver Solutions
Chuck was inspired to enter the healthcare industry after discovering the EPA labeled it the third-highest water-wasting industry. Although there are many barriers to entry in the healthcare field due to strict regulations, Chuck says, “I embraced the barriers.”