WWBIC Fuels the Fire to Launch: A Small Business Success Story
Client: Daddy’s Soul Food and Grille
Client Location: Milwaukee, WI
CDFI: Wisconsin Women's Business Initiative Corporation (WWBIC)
CDFI Service Area: WI
Financing and technical assistance
Daddy’s Soul Food and Grille is located in Milwaukee’s west side on a busy urban street scattered with vacant store fronts. Open since the fall of 2014, Daddy’s has become a neighborhood destination as evidenced by its long lines during prime times. Patient patrons await home-cooked meals and classic comfort food favorites in a warm and welcoming place. The heart and soul of the restaurant are owners Angela and Chef Bennie Smith.
The timing was just right for Daddy’s to launch. The Smiths had been looking for a brick and mortar location for their already established catering side-business and had dreamt of the day they would be their own boss. When financing was a struggle to secure, they found WWBIC who were able to provide a microloan that made all the difference. WWBIC has continued to support their efforts with technical assistance to ensure strong financial management practices and to help guide steady growth. The Smiths are making an impact in their community by providing employment to 12 individuals. The name Daddy’s is a tribute to Bennie’s late father who was also a chef and had inspired Bennie with his commitment to quality and love of food. Daddy’s also places an emphasis on the importance of fatherhood and supports local initiatives that reinforce this message.
With WWBIC’s continued support, Daddy’s will be expanding their kitchen and seating area this spring to meet their growing demand. They will be adding to their current staff and are looking forward to moving their lines even more quickly!
“WWBIC was the fuel behind our dream; we had the idea, we had the drive, but WWBIC believed in us and provided the funds to put it into place,” says Bennie. “WWBIC was truly the catalyst that allowed us to launch!”