Recently, StartUp Hutch facilitated a loan package to enable Carolyn’s Essenhaus to continue under new owners Francisco Villanueva and Karina D Carmon.
Francisco's entrepreneurial journey was catalyzed by the guidance of StartUp Hutch and his completion of the 12-week Entrepreneurship Business Basics (EBB) JUMP program. This intensive course equipped Francisco with vital knowledge and skills essential for launching his business endeavor. Furthermore, the program facilitated invaluable networking opportunities, connecting Francisco with Dave Sotelo, Director of Strategic Growth at the City of Hutchinson, who played a pivotal role in introducing him to StartUp Hutch.
“I feel so fortunate that Dave encouraged me to participate in the EBB program. It helped my wife and I have the confidence to pursue our dream of owning our own business together,” said Francisco. “Those connections set us on the path to where we are today.”
Tailored for aspiring entrepreneurs like Francisco, the EBB JUMP program provided a comprehensive curriculum covering the fundamental aspects of business inception and managing a business. This program, and others like it, are made possible for Reno County residents by the partnership between StartUp Hutch and NetWork Kansas, the state-wide Kansas Center for Entrepreneurship.
Jackson Swearer, Executive Director at StartUp Hutch, expressed enthusiasm for the venture: "We are thrilled to support Francisco and Karina in their journey to uphold the legacy of Carolyn’s Essenhaus. This loan not only ensures the continuity of a cherished community institution but also demonstrates the power of collaboration among local partners in driving economic development."
StartUp Hutch partnered with Peoples Bank and Trust and the Hutchinson Community Foundation to provide a loan package totaling $230,000.
“We are excited to participate in this impactful loan package. Main street restaurants in our smaller communities are critical community spaces, and we are proud to support the continued local ownership of Carolyn’s,” said Aubrey Abbott Patterson, President/CEO of the Hutchinson Community Foundation.
Francisco and Karina are dedicated to preserving Carolyn’s cherished traditions, recipes, and hospitality, and retaining the iconic name. However, they also look forward to infusing their own creativity and passion into the menu, promising exciting new additions while honoring the essence of Carolyn’s Essenhaus.
Entrepreneurs seeking inspiration are encouraged to join the next session of the EBB Jump program, that is set to begin on Monday, June 24th. For further details on participation, please visit www.startuphutch.com or reach out to Jackson Swearer at jackson@startuphutch.com.