Success Stories
Celebrating Local Business Success
The Good Baker YPQ Expands from Dream to Reality
Client
The Good Baker YPQ
Owner
Brad Katz
Supported by
Community Futures Peterborough
As an experienced baker and long-time side-hustle entrepreneur, Brad Katz dreamed of the day he could quit his full-time job and open his own restaurant, focused on serving tasty gluten-free options.
The Problem
Entrepreneurship was nothing new to Brad Katz, who had owned and operated Kawartha Lakes Fudge Factory for 15 years. After also working as a baker for Pastry Peddler and the Buttertart Factory, Brad wanted to pursue his dream of running his own restaurant, focused on providing gluten-free options. However, like many entrepreneurs, he faced a significant challenge: securing the capital required to get started.
The Solution
In 2018, Brad connected with Kawartha Mains Food and Beverage, which operated the canteen at the YMCA. When the owner decided to exit the business, Brad saw the opportunity to take over, supported by funding from Community Futures Peterborough.
Always eager to grow, Brad soon found a second opportunity: operating a restaurant at the Peterborough Airport. Once again, Community Futures Peterborough provided funding to help him expand.
“Community Futures was instrumental in helping The Good Baker get off the ground and in supporting the launch of our second location at the Peterborough Airport. Working with them was easy and straightforward, and I truly appreciate Braden’s guidance throughout the entire process. I highly recommend their support.”
– Brad Katz, Owner and Operator of the Good Baker and the Good Baker YPQ
Implementation & Results
Brad worked closely with Loan Manager Braden to complete the loan applications and also leveraged resources from the Business Advisory Centre to support his business planning.
Conclusion
Brad is an experienced entrepreneur with the skills to successfully run his own business. However, the capital requirements of starting a new venture can often be a barrier. The Community Futures program is specifically designed to help rural Canadians get their startups off the ground.
Do you have a dream to start your own business or need support to take it to the next level?
Community Futures Peterborough can help.
Get in touch with us at 705-745-5434 to learn more about our programs and funding opportunities.
