Stay focused and committed: “It's been said before, but to run a small business, you've got to be focused, and you've got to be a hard worker,” Chico advised. “The amount of time you spend on the business will likely be more than you imagined it would be.”
Establish a trusted banking relationship: “It’s critical to have trusted guidance in banking from one who understands complex deals,” Eric said.
Think beyond the business: “We see our project’s store, café and offices as seeding community connections,” Eric added. “Ultimately, real estate revitalization is all about cultivating those connections to make more livable environments for people.”
Eric and Chico share key insights for others undertaking ambitious community development projects:
