You start with what you have.”
That’s what Lisa Gutierrez, now CEO of Dos Hermanos, a bustling Mexican-inspired food business based in Columbus, Ohio, says about her start as a small business owner more than 10 years ago.
In her case, she started with one borrowed food truck — and turned it into a profitable company that generates $3 million a year and employs 45 people and includes multiple food trucks, concession stands at venues like Lower.com Field and the Greater Columbus Convention Center, permanent stalls at two area food markets, and a commissary kitchen that serves an underserved community.
Of course, she had more than just the truck on her side. She had 15 years of experience managing restaurants, a husband with a passion for food, trusted family recipes, and a village of support behind her.
Lisa’s business journey from a solitary food truck to a thriving business included support from community developers, fellow foodies, and city advocates — as well as a long-term relationship with her local Chase business banker.
“When I walked into my Chase branch with my Dos Hermanos t-shirt on years ago, I thought I was unbankable. My credit score was low, and there was so little in my account that I was just hoping I’d have enough to get change for the next gig. What happened next was very powerful.”