GREENSBORO, N.C. — After being closed for months due to the pandemic a local favorite is back up and running with a little help from an organization known as Triad Local First.
The Summit Café has been in operation since 1989, and is a staple in East Greensboro.
Well in 2020, owner Nezzia Martin felt some of the same feelings that many of you might have felt. she was anxious not knowing what was next for her business or her employees.
According to Martin, they applied for help from the SBA but they didn't meet all the qualifications.
"In the beginning it was very stressful, just the fact that we are unable to get the loan. We did try for it, but we were unable to get it. We're a small mom and pop, we do not operate with 5 employees, that was the main issue we had."
Enter, Triad Local First. They're an organization that helps businesses who find themselves in situations like the summit café. Their Executive Direct Tracy Furman explains why their non-profit is so important.
"Fortunately there are some other avenues out there, and part of what Triad Local first does is making sure small business owners know the options that are out there. There are CDFIs which are community based foundations which support via grants and smaller loans that can help small businesses like hers."
Now, the Summit Café is fully reopened.
If you're a small business owner, or you know of one who may need some financial assistance, I've attached all the Triad Local First contact information below.
Phone number: 336-365-5282