Outline:
A New Hope for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
A new nonprofit in Greenville is gaining attention as a beacon of hope for aspiring restaurant and business owners. This initiative, called Hone GVL, offers a unique space where individuals can refine their skills and test their business ideas. The program was established through a collaboration between co-founder and entrepreneur John Ko and Dan Weidenbenner, the executive director at Mill Village Ministries. Since its opening in mid-December, Hone GVL has aimed to provide a support system for the next generation of food and beverage industry professionals.
Ko, who previously owned Local Taco in Nashville, Tennessee, shared his insights on the challenges faced by small businesses. He emphasized that these ventures are crucial for community development and economic mobility. "Small businesses are essential to our community and empowering our neighbors, experiencing upward economic mobility, creating jobs, creating services," Weidenbenner said.
Ko added, "Everybody has a different story, different thing that they bring." His passion for the restaurant industry led him to create Hone GVL, which goes beyond just offering a pop-up space. Instead, it allows participants to experience the full spectrum of running a restaurant, from hiring staff to managing costs and taxes.
The restaurant industry is known for its high barriers to entry. Rising labor and food costs, along with the risk of oversaturation, make it one of the most challenging sectors to sustain. Ko noted that many family-owned or small businesses often face closure due to these obstacles.
This initiative comes at an opportune time, coinciding with South Carolina Restaurant Week, which aims to highlight local businesses during a typically slow post-holiday season. Ko explained the daily challenges faced by restaurateurs, stating, "On a day-to-day basis, it’s very challenging. The margins are very, very slim. It’s very, very competitive here in Greenville. You have to stay relevant."
Rotating Concepts and Mentorship
Hone GVL operates on a rotating schedule, featuring different startups every week. Each selected chef, restaurateur, or business owner is given the opportunity to manage their own space, prepare and present food, and test new concepts. The nonprofit also provides mentorship and training to help these individuals succeed.
One of the current residents at Hone GVL is Daylight Burrito owner Richie Mataafa. His journey began in San Diego, where he discovered his passion for breakfast burritos. "It’s just a melting pot of different folks. From all over the country and from all over Mexico," Mataafa said. He joked about not being a self-proclaimed "morning person" but admitted that his breakfast burritos offer the perfect start to the day.
Mataafa’s menu this week featured a stovetop-fried tortilla with cheese, chorizo, guacamole, pico de gallo, and tater tots, accompanied by a special sauce. He highlighted the efficiency of his process, noting that he can prepare a burrito from prep to presentation in under five minutes.
"It’s something that’s authentic to what we were eating back home," Mataafa said. "Got here to Greenville, I’d heard people say, ‘You can’t get food like this anywhere else.’ There’s not a lot of breakfast options. That’s not a biscuit or Waffle House — which I love Waffle House. I love any biscuit. But I think Greenville’s really looking for something more."
Challenges and Passion
Mataafa acknowledged that the restaurant industry lacks clear blueprints. From choosing the right tools to developing a successful mindset, the path to business ownership is filled with challenges. However, his passion for the food and beverage industry remains unwavering.
"I love this. Yeah, I think that this is what I’m going to be trying to do for the rest of my life," Mataafa said.
Customers visiting Hone GVL can enjoy a variety of dining experiences, whether they’re looking for a quick bite, a sit-down meal, or a nightcap. The nonprofit posts a weekly schedule featuring the chefs and businesses participating. Those interested in checking it out are encouraged to look ahead on their website and social media.
For aspiring business owners, Hone GVL offers a valuable resource. The program continues to support and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs in the food and beverage industry.