Connecticut Small Business Development Center

In the heart of Meriden, Connecticut, Daniela Nuñez, along with her husband Carlos, and her mother, Aida, set out to fill a gap in the local dining scene by offering fresh, healthy, and vegan-inspired meals. With a passion for wellness and nutrition, they opened The Green Deli, a fast-casual eatery. When asked what inspired her to start the business, Daniela said, "We wanted to bring healthy vegan options and fresh foods to the local community."

Support from CTSBDC

Daniela turned to CTSBDC for help starting their family business. "We needed information about resources, about where and how to start", she said. The guidance and resources provided by the CTSBDC Business Advisor Michelle Augustyn gave her the confidence to move forward. "My advisor gave us confidence that this was possible."

“Daniela, Adia, and Carlos have been a pleasure to work with. They had a dream of opening a small family run vegan deli. Through hard work and perseverance, they did it! As immigrants to this country, their story is truly inspiring, and their food is delicious.” – says Michelle.

Since working with CTSBDC, Daniela has gained valuable insights. "Teamwork—my advisor is part of my team—and realizing the number of resources and help available for small businesses, highlights Daniela.

A Trusted Advisor

Daniela describes her experience working with her CTSBDC advisor as invaluable: "She provided help from the first day we met, sharing all of her knowledge and experiences. She helped with financial projections, resources, links, grants, and so much more." During the time working with CTSBDC, The Green Deli has created 4 additional jobs in addition to being a family-run business. Business advisor Michelle Augustyn helped with them navigate the requirements to start a business in CT, develop their business plan, financial projections, and marketing plan, hire their first employees, and complete grant applications, providing essential support for the business's growth. Recently, The Green Deli achieved an important milestone by receiving approval for an $8,000 grant through the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) Neighborhood Assistance Act (NHE3) Grant program, providing valuable support for the business's growth and development.

Michelle Augustyn, The Green Deli's business advisor, reflected on her experience:
"While it is so rewarding to help an entrepreneur launch their small business dream, it is a privilege to continue to support them and watch their business grow and thrive. I am excited to help them obtain a grant so that they can expand into catering and fresh juice manufacturing."