The Journey Begins
What started as a chance meeting at the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce has blossomed into a remarkable success story. Dr. Karina Loyo first connected with SBDC Business Advisor Orlando Colmenero while exploring the wealth of resources available to business owners—resources she didn't even know existed.
"I had no idea how much information and coaching could be obtained for free just by asking for it," Loyo reflects on that pivotal conversation.
Initially, Loyo's goal was straightforward: help her client Gianmarco D'Amico purchase a restaurant. However, as often happens in the world of entrepreneurship, plans evolved in unexpected and exciting ways. What began as a consulting relationship transformed into a true partnership, with Loyo joining D'Amico and her spouse Stephen Waters as co-owners in acquiring Salerno Cucina Italiana.
Overcoming Challenges with SBDC Support
The path to restaurant ownership wasn't without its obstacles. After developing a comprehensive business plan and financial projections with Orlando's guidance, the team faced their first major hurdle: securing financing.
"The first two banks said no!" Loyo recalls. "It wasn't a reflection on our business package - they just weren't investing in restaurants at that moment."
This is where the SBDC's extensive network and expertise proved invaluable. Working together, Orlando and the team's banking contacts helped identify a lender willing to support their restaurant investment through an SBA loan.
Sweet Success
On November 13th, the dream became reality when KGS Management Operations LLC officially purchased Salerno Cucina Italiana. The results speak for themselves:
- Job Creation: Multiple new part-time and full-time positions added
- Community Engagement: Active participation in local Cedar Park community
- Customer Satisfaction: Consistently earning five-star reviews across Google, Yelp, and Toast
- Authentic Experience: Beloved for garlic bread, authentic Italian cuisine, and New York-style pizza
"The atmosphere is that of being welcomed home to family," Loyo explains, perfectly capturing their motto: "Come as a stranger, leave as a friend."
Representing Underserved Markets
Salerno Cucina Italiana proudly represents multiple underserved market demographics:
- Hispanic-owned: 56%
- Veteran-owned: 44%
- Women-owned: 44%
This diverse ownership structure brings unique perspectives and experiences that enrich both the business operations and the community they serve.
Words of Wisdom
Dr. Loyo's advice to fellow entrepreneurs is clear and compelling:
"You can pay top dollar for a business coach or you can choose your own adventure and get the same or better service from the SBDC. They have access to so many resources and referrals to additional people to help that you don't normally get to talk to. I highly recommend that all small business make their first stop the SBDC to see for yourself what they have to offer."
The SBDC Difference
This success story exemplifies the transformative power of SBDC services. From initial business planning and financial analysis to loan packaging and ongoing support, the Texas State University SBDC provided the tools, connections, and confidence needed to turn vision into reality.
"Working with the SBDC gave me invaluable tools and confidence to pursue this business," Loyo emphasize.
Visit Salerno Cucina Italiana
Ready to experience the warmth and authentic flavors that have earned Salerno Cucina Italiana such acclaim? Visit them in Cedar Park or learn more at salernocucinaitalianatx.com or salernotx.com.
