Parle Innovation
“Technology is a way to advance people’s lives, and while sometimes it has the potential to disconnect, it also holds the promise of immersion,” explains Mary.
iCAFE San Francisco
Part of their loan from Main Street Launch was to purchase a new ice machine, ovens for their fresh, baked goods, and various supplies to grow their fast paced café. Currently, the café has 4 part-time employees and has also opened its 2nd location: iCAFE Chinatown.
Malaya Acupuncture and Wellness Center
Emil Velasquez, owner of Malaya Acupuncture and Wellness Center, decided to launch his business after his parents got sick. “I wasn’t satisfied with the treatments they were receiving, so I decided to open a business where I could help educate people about Chinese medicine,” explains Emil.
Black Bark BBQ
David is a chef, and Monetta is a native San Franciscan, and they both have strong entrepreneurial spirits. They put their passions together ten years ago to open 1300 on Fillmore, a full-service restaurant in the Fillmore.
Barebottle Brewing Co.
“We found a sizeable space, about 16,000 square feet. The space gave us room to grow over the long term and add capacity as we expand. But we needed more money to buy equipment and for unknown future costs, which is what Main Street’s loan helped us do,” explains Mike.
Beauty’s Bagel Shop
Blake explains, “My dad grew up in Montreal, so Montreal-style bagels were a big part of my life growing up. My dad’s love for these bagels inspired us to want to start Beauty’s Bagel Shop.”
Luxurious Nail Boutique
Richard offers advice to aspiring entrepreneurs: “When you ask for money, make sure you can answer any question about the business. Your idea has to make sense on paper, and you have to focus on the details in the right order if you want to be successful.”
Motus Rehab Clinic
Lindsay encourages new entrepreneurs to take some time to self-reflect. “While It is important to plan, work hard, and put the time in; self-reflection is equally as important in my experience and sometime more so. You need to be able to look at your personal weaknesses and be willing to confront them so they do not hold your business back from thriving.”
McMullen
“Working with Robert [Lattimore, Senior Vice President] was a great experience. He has so much knowledge and expertise that I know I can ask him any question about my business and get great advice,” says Sherri.
New Parkway
Four years since its inception, the New Parkway employs 40 people, has an excellent kitchen, and hosts various events outside of movies such as game nights and sports broadcasts. Customers flock to see the daily changing shows including reruns of classics, anime, and indie movies.