Starting a small business can seem like an impossible feat, but with passion, commitment, and the right resources, dreams can become reality. For Jeannette Nevilles, the recipe for success was to bring her homemade, country-style sandwiches to hungry diners in the Twin Cities.
Gramsky’s Sandwiches, Nevilles’s Brooklyn Park restaurant, opened in a former Papa Murphy’s space in the summer of 2016 and has already earned some notable fans, including city leaders, state legislators, and even U.S. Bank Stadium, where Nevilles’s signature “Italian Grinder” sandwich appears on the menu for catered events.
Aramark’s M Hospitality, the company behind concession offerings at U.S. Bank Stadium, made an effort to round out the venue’s catering menu with offerings from small, minority-owned businesses like Gramsky’s.
Deputy Chief of Staff Linden Zakula visited Gramsky’s earlier this month to chat with Nevilles about her business and enjoy a deep-fried taco and fresh-baked cookies.
To take Gramsky’s from an idea to opening day, Nevilles made a plan and took advantage of some of the resources and programs offered in Minnesota. She enrolled at North Hennepin Community College to develop her business savvy and sought the help of the
Metropolitan Economic Development Association (Meda), who provided her with a line of credit and support for her business.
These organizations provided guidance, alleviated some of the financial burden, and helped Nevilles persevere through the challenges of opening a business.
So far, she calls Gramsky’s a success. Nevilles is busy keeping up with catering orders and working to make her sandwich shop a neighborhood staple.
Thinking about starting a business? Looking for expert advice? The State of Minnesota offers many resources to help emerging business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs to realize their dreams. Visit the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development
website for tools and tips.
