Old Central Firehouse Pizzeria & Taproom SBDC Success Story
Jody & Michele Babiash
Economic Impact
- Business Start
- Jobs Created: 8
- Commercial Loan
Jody and Michele Babiash are true entrepreneurs, some might even say serial entrepreneurs. With a few successful businesses under their belt, they decided to embark on a new adventure.
A few years prior, the couple had purchased an old Firehouse in downtown San Angelo on Magdalen St. After some major renovations, love, sweat, and even a few tears, they opened a beautiful Bed & Brew. With phase one of the dream project complete, they turned their attention to the other half of the building in which they envisioned a pizzeria with a self-serving tap wall.
The Babiashes reached out once again to the SBDC for help in the startup phase of this new venture. Advisors were able to assist them with industry research, financial projections, marketing and human resources.
Just as they were getting ready to open their doors for the first time, COVID-19 cases began to rise in San Angelo, and local and state governments encouraged restaurants to close their doors. This did not deter Jody and Michele- they had a wonderful plan, a great business idea and hope that San Angelo would thrive again. They started their business in April 2020, even with all the tremendous challenges they faced during that time.
The SBDC advisors are so glad to see this small business now open, successful, and serving the San Angelo community.
“The team at the SBDC and all of their resources have been fundamental in starting our business. We continue to work with them and appreciate their services and hard work.”