Jeannette and Ken Katz have created an ecosystem of support for local farmers, bakers, chefs and food entrepreneurs – an endeavor that began with their first loan from Invest Atlanta more than a decade ago.

Inspired by the flavors of San Francisco's melting pot, the accessibility of New York City's bodegas, the familiarity of small-town Italian shopkeepers and the island flavors found in Miami, the couple opened Buenos Dias Café in downtown Atlanta in 2012 with help from a $50,000 low-interest loan from Invest Atlanta.

“Since that first loan, Invest Atlanta has continued to promote opportunities to help us be successful,” says Ken. “They recognize the tenacity of small business owners and entrepreneurs and understand their value in local communities.”

Jeannette and Ken eventually closed Buenos Dias Café to open La Bodega, a neighborhood grocery store in the historic MET building, which sells healthy, locally sourced groceries and provisions. Unique not only because of its location in a food desert, La Bodega is also known for its take-out window, featuring fresh Latin American-inspired cuisine and a rotating collective of up-and-coming chefs dishing out their specialties.

“The pop-up gives food entrepreneurs space to explore the idea of opening their own restaurant,” says Jeannette. “It’s so important for big cities to offer food diversity and support local chefs. Food can define a city, and I see Atlanta nearing San Francisco- and Miami-level diversity.”

Jeannette and Ken continue to grow their business. Not only do they employ more than 16 workers, they are also looking to scale their COVID side gig of making fresh, handmade Pupusas – the national dish of El Salvador.

As a Fearless Fund grant recipient and member of the Women’s Entrepreneurship Initiative (WEI) Cohort #4, Jeannette says she’s been able to hone her business skills and draw strength from her network of women supporting women. “My experience with WEI made me believe that we can continue to grow and expand our possibilities,” she says. “I also learned that it's ok to ask for help because it will make you, and your business, stronger.”

“We wouldn’t exist without Invest Atlanta,” agrees Ken. “They gave us a chance when others wouldn’t. We are proud Invest Atlanta alumni and one of their biggest proponents.”