SCORE Success Stories:

Sylvia’s Waffles (A Taste of Belgium)
SCORE helps Belgian Native Develop a Recipe for Success

After growing up in Belgium, US emigrant Sylvia Imperatore-Viens was looking for a way to use what she had learned to offer something authentic and unique to the local Tampa Bay market.

It didn’t take long to realize that genuine Belgian waffles would be a distinct improvement over what was available in area stores and restaurants. During a meeting with a local Chamber of Commerce, a Chamber employee suggested that Sylvia meet with the Pinellas County SCORE chapter before starting her new business.

She met with SCORE volunteer Edwin Savage. Edwin helped Sylvia understand what she would need to do to open her home-based business in Florida. One important piece of advice was to seek out an existing kitchen that was licensed and inspected to serve food, such as one of the local churches. She also attended SCORE workshops on starting a new business and helping your business thrive, not just survive.

With the help of family members and advice from Edwin, Sylvia opened Sylvia’s Waffles, selling her traditional waffles at farmer’s markets in Largo, St. Petersburg, Tarpon Springs, and Dunedin. With these sales plus referrals and visits to her web site, Sylvia’s Waffles continues to grow.

Company
Sylvia’s Waffles

Location
Clearwater, Florida

Website
www.sylviaswaffles.com

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