On November 14th, the Business Advisory Board (BAB) toured some of Salt Lake City’s 9th West businesses. It’s part of an ongoing effort to uphold the board’s mission to “foster an equitable and robust business ecosystem as ambassadors, advocates, and advisors.” Councilmember Andrew Johnston (District 2) and Councilmember James Rogers (District 1) were also in attendance, supporting their respective districts.

Have you seen the new business development on 9th West lately?

We toured four businesses in this growing neighborhood. First, we visited Delicias El Paraiso, a restaurant at 484 S. 900 W. serving jugos naturale, paletas de leche y frutas, chamovadas, banana splits, tostadas, and more. Next, Chunga’s a Cancun style Mexican restaurant located at 180 S. 900 W. that has been written up numerous times in local SLC foodie blogs. From there we met with the owners of Santo Tacos, a Mexican Taqueria opening soon at 910 N. 900 W. Finally, we toured Break Bread Barber Co on 910 N. 900 W. a new barber shop serving the SLC community.

9thwestbiz

Led by Local Business and Entrepreneurship Manager Roberta Reichgelt, the tour celebrated the many successes of these businesses while also offering marketing exposure, free business resources, and networking connections. Many of the owners spoke of the challenges of starting and operating a business.  Some of those were: building permits, parking, finding reliable contractors, and learning all of the steps it takes to open a storefront. All expressed pride in having a west side business and were very passionate about what they said the community they served.

As a result of the visit, BAB and SLC’s Economic Development team are now working on a tool that can further support the growth of these businesses and establishing many others. westide2b

Lara Fritts, Director of Salt Lake City’s Department of Economic Development said, “The economy is the heartbeat of Salt Lake City. Visiting with our local business owners is an exciting opportunity to celebrate the important work our department, our partners, and our businesses do to help keep the pulse of Salt Lake City strong and, in turn, promote more growth in this vibrant neighborhood.”

Connecting with the Salt Lake City community – both residential and commercial – is critical for business owners, real estate developers and investors. Understanding who’s who in our community matters. We can achieve more when communication lines are open, so let the Department of Economic Development and BAB be your ally and guide as you explore all of the opportunities that Salt Lake City has to offer.

Want more information and support?  We’re here to help. Contact Roberta Reichgelt our Local Business and Entrepreneurship Manager.

About Salt Lake City’s Business Advisory Board:

Housed in the Department of Economic Development, the Business Advisory Board seeks to encourage economic development and targeted industry relocation within City boundaries. The board also helps direct City economic policy, promote small business growth, support local entrepreneurship, and assist the City in remaining responsive to the business community.