El Cuate

Spanish advising helps a client achieve his dream

Ricardo Lopez had been a chef in The Dalles for more than 10 years before the restaurant where he was working was sold. Ricardo chose to open his own food truck instead, and he mentioned this to an ESL instructor at Columbia Gorge Community College. She referred Ricardo to the SBDC for help.

At the SBDC, Ricardo found an adviser who spoke Spanish and helped him understand the steps required for starting his own business, including registering with the state. In addition, the SBDC helped with food cost and pricing. All of the advising was done in Spanish, Ricardo’s first language.

“Their support is amazing. I am able to learn every time I attend a class or work on a specific piece of my business,” said Ricardo. “Last year I was able to create a profit and invested in a second food truck.”

He is looking forward to having the second food truck working at the same time. His dishes are named after his children.

“I love my business is because I like to interact with customers and it is rewarding to see how customers react to my food. I enjoy how happy I make them.”