Entrepreneurs rarely embark on their business journeys in isolation. Collaborative partnerships play a pivotal role in the success of such ventures. These partnerships can manifest in various ways, propelling an idea from inception to a thriving business.
Consider Wonder Café, an exemplary case in point. The visionaries behind Wonder Café, Katie Oestreich and Tristin Holzmann, aspired to establish a welcoming space where people could congregate, interact, and forge enduring memories. Choosing a Downtown Fond du Lac location, they confronted numerous considerations, and they also discovered a wealth of resources at their disposal.
Their journey started in the Spring of 2023, with conversations with Raina Lyman, Director of Small Business and Entrepreneurship at Envision Greater Fond du Lac, and Amy Hansen, Executive Director at the Downtown Fond du Lac Partnership.
“Raina’s expertise and commitment was instrumental in helping us create and refine our business plan, develop a sound strategy, and envision the future possibilities for our venture,” Katie Oestreich, Wonder Café Co-Owner, said.
The Downtown Fond du Lac Partnership played a critical role securing the ideal location and assisting with grant funding, helping to provide long-term sustainability.
The story of Wonder Café stands as a testament to the power of collaboration among multiple partners in realizing ambitious projects. Economic development is a long-term endeavor, often requiring months or even years of meticulous planning to bring a new business to fruition, relocate, or expand. The most favorable economic outcomes emerge from synergies among lenders, municipalities, economic development organizations, and visionary entrepreneurs.
Wonder Café epitomizes the positive outcomes that arise from collective resources and efforts for the greater good. It is set to open at 15 N. Main Street this fall.
“The unwavering support of Envision and the Downtown Fond du Lac Partnership has not only made our dream of opening Wonder a reality but has also empowered us to contribute positively to the Fond du Lac community,” Tristin Holzmann, Wonder Co-Owner said. “We look forward to continuing our partnership and look forward to the opportunities that lie ahead.”
For further information on Envision’s entrepreneurial resources and business intelligence services, please visit envisiongreaterfdl.com. For further information on business resources in Downtown Fond du Lac, visit downtownfdl.com.