Columbus is going to be seeing some new restaurants with these successfully funded campaigns. A pop-up and a food truck look for permanent homes while a long-time restaurateur wants to try a new concept.
A new barbershop aims to build community while making the fellas look extra sharp, and a photographer hopes to build a studio that’s a place for education. Throw in a cat cafe and you’ve got September’s Columbus crowdfunding campaigns.
Traditional and modern barber cuts, straight-razor shaves, beard trims, facial massages and scalp treatments are on the menu at this aspiring barbershop. Shoe shines, a lineup of cigars and other products and accessories add extra polish to the barbershop that’s not just about a haircut, but about elevating a client’s personal style and well-being. All funds raised will go towards start-up costs of the shop.
Teodora’s: Food Truck to Brick and Mortar!
Teodora’s food truck is serving up Latin-inspired eats just like mom made – quite literally. The matriarch’s recipes are the driving force of this family business that rose out of the ashes of a terrible loss. After a few years on the food truck trail, Teodora’s is ready to lay down roots at a brick-and-mortar space in Clintonville. They’ve found the space, but just need that little extra push to the finish line.
ZenCat Cafe: Chill w the Kitties
Cat lovers, you’ve found your oasis. A campaign has been started to bring a cat cafe to Columbus. It is what it sounds – sip a cup of coffee, cuddle with a feline. (Just make sure they don’t knock your drink over!)
Palle by Moretti—a casual meatball-centric restaurant/bar
Meatballs will be the main attraction at Palle by Moretti (yes, that means balls in Italian). While Moretti’s in Upper Arlington is known for its fine-dining, Palle will take it down a notch with a more casual-customizable approach. Diners will choose from a rotating meatball menu and build their own creation with the help of different vehicles (salad, sandwiches, risotto, etc.) and sauces. Sides and a full-bar round out the menu. Palle is the first tenant to be announced in Grandview new-build View on Fifth. Funds will go to general starting costs, but the eatery will be added to the dining scene regardless of campaign success. (Visit Columbus Underground for more details.)
Hai Poké going Brick & Mortar
Hai Poké hopes to go from pop-up to permanent. Owners Mico and Nile have been taking over the kitchen at Oddfellow’s in Short North to introduce the masses to the Hawaiian street food that is poké. Budding entrepreneurs, the duo are raising funds to find a brick-and-mortar home. They’ve got plans even if the goal isn’t met. Hai Poké wants to expand their reach with catering and add some new, healthy dishes to the mix. (CU has more details on this one, too.)
Freelance photographer Matt Reese is ready to open a full-service photography studio. Commons Studio will focus on education, offering apprenticeship and internship opportunities for students, recent graduates and emerging talent. A successful loan (this one’s through Kiva) will go towards developing an accredited educational program.
Bonus!
Wonder what happens once all those projects get funded? (Well if you are wondering about product-related projects, check this out.) Kickstarter has chosen Columbus as one of its cities for the fifth annual Kickstarter Film Festival. For one night only, cities across the country will be showing all sorts of film projects successfully funded through the platform. Save the date on October 15 and click here for more information the festival. (PS. It’s free, just RSVP.)
See some great business campaigns that are missing or gearing up to launch your own? Submit your campaign for our monthly roundup at [email protected].
