I want to start a coffee cafe with library and game zone. Does anyone have any tips for starting my business?
Ankit
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Small Business Administration (US Gov't) and SCORE for starting a small business and financial information. Having worked in bakeries and cafes, I don't necessarily recommend them but Sysco is a large wholesaler. Sam's Club is the Wal-Mart for small businesses if there's one near by you. Same for Smart & Final on the West Coast. Others will be in the yellow pages under restaurant equipment suppliers. They will have advice but are primarily salespeople. You need to have food...whether you make it or outsource it depends on what you want, but if you outsource, go local. Mass-baked products are nasty.
I used to own a coffee shop/deli. Roasted my own beans too. First, are you wanting to buy an existing or a start up? I would suggest you talk to health dept for your state to find out what type of things you need to have/do.
Some states require certified food safety handling so you would have to take an approved class. If you need to borrow money, talk to a banker. Preferably one who knows you. There are often unknown sources in the community that also provide funding that your banker may know about. Get to know your Chamber of Commerce rep. They are a wealth of info and help for start-ups because they know everybody!
Apply for any tax ID's and licenses. Once you have those you can contact food suppliers for info. SCORE is a source of info if you need a business plan (and you will!) Most banks will want to shy away from government backed grants even for women because the process is lengthly! I mean, its government right.
Lastly, Whatever dollar amount you think you need...double or triple it because there are always expenses you didn't plan on that will crop up. Lastly, be determined, because it isn't easy. I've owned 3 start-ups. It takes a TON of work so I hope you have a support system to lean on. And best of luck to you! It's a lot of work but very rewarding!
One more thing - listen to feedback but consistency is a must in any food business! It's your business so do what you feel is right! You can't please everyone all the time. There will always be people who think you aren't doing it right (and most of them have never owned a business let alone a food establishment) but it only important to do what you feel is right.
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