By Aleesia Benkey
After years of working in food service, Rudy Gonzales and Ryan Moody went looking for a change of pace. They enjoyed working at different levels, managing and growing in their careers, but wanted to start their own adventure.
Rudy and Ryan teamed up and created a joint vision of a gastro-pub restaurant serving comfort food and craft beer. The duo worked on their concept and found a potential location, but otherwise, they didn’t know where to start. They found the Orange County Inland Empire Small Business Development Center Network (OCIE SBDC) and got to work.
OCIE SBDC business consultant Jay Allis supported Rudy and Ryan throughout the startup process. Throughout their sessions, they developed a business plan, established financial projections, and reviewed the permitting and licensing process for their new business.
“Jay has been very helpful in this process. I appreciate all the help and guidance he provided us,” said Rudy.
Located in the heart of Yucaipa, Rebels Burgers and Brew opened their doors earlier this year. The new business created 15 jobs and brought in $35,000 in sales in their opening weekend alone.
Jay’s navigation provided a roadmap through lending, the lease, planning and renovation to hit the ground running. “Rudy and Ryan are so passionate about their business and I’m glad I got to help them through the startup process. The road to opening Rebels Burgers and Brew was long, but they have shown commitment since day one,” said Jay. “Now that they’re open, they are actively wanting to learn everything they can to make it as successful as possible, and I know their hard work will pay off.”
Rebels Burgers and Brew hosted a formal grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony on December 15. The Yucaipa community welcomed the new business with pride and a great turnout including elected officials, the Yucaipa Chamber of Commerce and local firefighters.
Rebels Burgers and Brew is open Thursday through Monday at 35007 Yucaipa Blvd., Yucaipa, California. Find them on Instagram as @rebels_burgers_and_brew.
Looking to start or grow your own food-based small business?
Connect with the OCIE SBDC today. We offer business consulting, training, and access to resources to entrepreneurs and business owners throughout the Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties at no cost. As the go-to resource for small businesses, the OCIE SBDC provides solutions and opportunities for small businesses throughout the region to become successful. Call 1-800-616-7232 or schedule a 15-minute intake appointment.
