As Women’s History Month comes to a close, the CIE is spotlighting leadership on our predominantly women team—Liz Fisher, Stephanie Zombek, Karen Tillman and Nichole McAllister—who work tirelessly to keep CIE & SBDC programs up and running for people to succeed and thrive. These women are a powerhouse of leaders dedicated to empowering students, supporting local small businesses and driving the startup ecosystem forward.

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Stephanie Zombek – Senior Marketing and Communications Manager

Stephanie Zombek’s career began with a love for creativity and design, nurtured by her mother’s encouragement. After discovering her passion for branding and storytelling at Cal Poly, she ventured into marketing but found herself craving more creative work. Her journey brought her back to the CIE—where she had once interned as a Cal Poly student—now leading a creative team that blends marketing and design.

Zombek sees her mother as her biggest role model, a woman who persevered through immense challenges, including battling cancer and overcoming debilitating vertigo. “She’s proof that success isn’t just about pushing through—it’s about knowing when to stop, when to heal and when to rebuild,” Zombek said.

Her career pivot to the CIE was a leap of faith. “I hadn’t applied for a design job in years because I didn’t think I was ‘good enough.’ Imposter syndrome is real,” she admitted. “Thankfully, I went for it, and that one decision changed everything.” Now, she not only channels her creativity daily but also mentors students and leads a dynamic marketing team.

Zombek has faced many of the same challenges that impact most women, whether rooted in social conditioning or generational experiences. “Women tend to second-guess themselves a lot, and I’m definitely guilty of it, too,” she said. “But I’ve learned that the best way to prove yourself isn’t to wait for validation…it’s to show up, do the work and own your space. And surrounding myself with strong, supportive people (especially other women) has made all the difference.”

She finds immense fulfillment in working at the CIE, surrounded by talented, driven women who uplift and inspire one another. “We always talk about wanting to see more women in leadership, in startups, in business—but change starts by showing what’s possible. We get to be that example. If we want more women in these spaces, we have to make space for them, and I love that we’re doing that here at the CIE.” 

Liz Fisher – Assistant Director of the Cal Poly CIE SBDC

For the past five years, Liz Fisher has helped lead the Cal Poly CIE Small Business Development Center (SBDC), managing a team of three staff members and over 30 business consultants. With a background in public relations and event coordination, she transitioned into higher education, drawn to its mission-driven environment.

Fisher credits much of her success to female mentors, particularly Judy Mahan, who encouraged her to lean into her strengths. One of her proudest achievements has been building a full-time, all-women staff within the CIE. “Now, we are a team of five amazing women who work well together and truly rely on each other’s strengths to create (in my opinion) the best program in the County,” she said.

Navigating a male-dominated industry has presented challenges, but Fisher remains a steadfast advocate for women entrepreneurs. “I see more challenges for women who are running their own business, which in turns makes me a bigger champion for them as they pursue their dreams and do what I can to support them through our organization,” she explained. 

Beyond her work, Fisher believes in fostering a supportive environment where women can lead with confidence. “I love being part of an all-women team,” she said. “I think the energy is incredible and it truly is a large part of why I love what I do. Being around so many empowered women who are constantly going above and beyond what is expected is an amazing opportunity that I don’t take lightly.” 

Karen Tillman – Interim Executive Director of the CIE

With a background in tech communications, economic development and strategic leadership, Karen Tillman has built a career on curiosity and adaptability. Her experience spans major public companies economic development, and now, leading the CIE. Throughout her journey, she has drawn inspiration from a multitude of women, each offering unique perspectives on leadership and strategy. “There have been so many influential women, not a singular one, but it’s been awesome to learn that way,” she said. 

One of her proudest career moments was helping transform GoDaddy’s reputation from a company known for misogynistic advertising into an industry leader in gender equity. By implementing systemic changes and prioritizing transparency, she helped shift public perception and internal culture. “It was hard work, but incredibly rewarding to see meaningful change take place,” she said.

Tillman has faced the challenges many women encounter in male-dominated industries—working harder, staying longer, and carefully balancing how she presents herself. “You had to be heard, but not too much,” she said, referencing the now-famous “Barbie” monologue. Rather than letting obstacles define her, she focused on understanding people who held different perspectives than her own. “Is it something I can change? If not, how do I work around it?” she said.

At the CIE, Tillman sees firsthand the power of an all-women team. “We’re not all of one mold,” she said. “If there are six women, we are six different molds, and I love that. Because you get something from each of these people. And in a smaller organization like this one, you can really see the impact.” 

Nichole McAllister – Operations Manager

As Operations Manager at the CIE, Nichole McAllster plays a vital role in keeping the HotHouse running smoothly. Whether managing day-to-day logistics, coordinating events, or fostering a welcoming coworking environment, McAllister is the backbone of the CIE’s operations.

Beyond her work at the CIE, McAllister has always been a pillar of support in her family and community. A mother of three and a dedicated student pursuing her bachelor’s degree in business, she often steps into leadership roles, whether in the PTA at her children’s school or at the CIE.

McAllister’s grandmother has been a guiding influence in her life, who helped raise not only her own children, but her grandchildren, instilling in them the importance of patience, support and open-mindedness. “She’s the person you could tell anything to, and she’d listen and support you no matter what,” McAllister said.

McAllister’s journey has been shaped by personal challenges, including supporting her husband after his Parkinson’s diagnosis. “For me, education was always something I wanted to pursue, but life had other plans,” she said. “Now, I’m doing it for myself and my family’s future.” 

Despite her many responsibilities, McAllister continues to push forward, driven by her commitment to her family and personal growth. “Knowledge is power, right? That’s why I push myself to keep learning, so I can be a better advocate, a better leader and a better example for my kids.” she explained. 

When reflecting on the challenges women face in the workplace, McAllister acknowledges being underestimated or taken advantage of. “It’s just important that we believe in ourselves and know that what we have to say matters,” she said.

Being part of an all-women team at the CIE has been a unique experience—one she values, but also sees from multiple perspectives. “I think it’s awesome, but I also believe in balance. Sometimes, different perspectives can challenge our way of thinking and that’s important,” she explained. She finds fulfillment in working with driven women who uplift and support each other, knowing that these efforts help create a stronger, more inclusive future.

To her, Women’s History Month represents both the progress made and the work that still lies ahead. “I think about my grandmother and how much change she’s seen in her lifetime,” she said. “Yes, we’ve made progress, but I also see how much more we have to fight for.” 

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The CIE is not only fostering the next generation of entrepreneurs but also setting an example of strong, supportive leadership. This Women’s History Month, we celebrate the women of the CIE and the impact they make every day.

As we continue to highlight inspiring women for Women’s History Month, we’re highlighting Kim Bisheff, an Assistant Professor of Media Innovation at Cal Poly. With a career that has taken her from reporting for the Los Angeles Times to writing feature stories for Outside magazine, Bisheff has dedicated herself to both journalism and the evolving landscape of media innovation. Now, she is shaping the next generation of journalists at Cal Poly, equipping students with the tools they need to navigate an ever-changing industry.

Bisheff’s love for journalism began in high school when her English teacher encouraged her to start a school newspaper. The thrill of reporting, collaborating with fellow students and meeting deadlines sparked a passion that would later define her career. Though she didn’t study journalism as an undergraduate, she found herself drawn to it through her college newspaper.

After earning her degree, Bisheff initially took a job at an investment firm—a position she quickly realized wasn’t for her. That realization pushed her to pursue journalism professionally, landing an internship and later a reporting job at the Los Angeles Times. She then pursued a master’s degree at UC Berkeley’s Graduate School of Journalism, where she fell in love with magazine feature writing. This path led her to Outside magazine, where she covered sustainability in adventure travel destinations, combining storytelling with environmental advocacy.

“It is such a privilege to help journalism students start their own careers, especially in a forward-thinking department that is committed to preparing them for jobs in an ever-changing industry,” Bisheff said.

Throughout her career, Bisheff has been shaped by the guidance of strong women mentors, including Mary Glick, a former Cal Poly journalism professor who introduced her to media innovation and entrepreneurship. She credits Lynn Metcalf and Karen Tillman for their support through the Cal Poly Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship (CIE) and Teresa Allen who taught her to “not suffer fools.” 

Now, Bisheff takes great pride in mentoring her own students, helping them develop tech solutions for media challenges and navigate the evolving world of journalism. Her proudest moments come when former students reach out to tell her how they are using the skills they learned in her classes—whether it’s decoding city council reports, digging into public records, or fixing website glitches.

“It makes me so proud. I want to give them an A in life,” she said. 

Bisheff acknowledges that women in professional settings often walk a fine line in how they are perceived, balancing assertiveness with approachability. While she continues to overcome these challenges, she has found strength in working with colleagues who listen, validate experiences and advocate for one another. She emphasizes the importance of having female allies in the workplace and male colleagues who use their voices to support women.

For Bisheff, Women’s History Month is personal. She grew up watching her mother, a champion of women’s rights, break barriers in academia. Her mother pursued a master’s degree and doctorate while raising a family, eventually becoming a food science professor and department chair at CSU Northridge.

“When I was born, women still weren’t allowed to have their own bank accounts,” Bisheff said. “But my mom raised me to believe that girls could do anything while she fought to make that true. Women’s History Month honors the women like my mom who helped create an easier path for their daughters and granddaughters. At the same time, it reminds us that there is still a lot of work to do.”

As the CIE continues to highlight extraordinary women who are making an impact in the community in honor of Women’s History Month, we are spotlighting Skye McLennan, a passionate advocate for cinema, storytelling and community. As the Executive Director of the San Luis Obispo International Film Festival, McLennan has dedicated her career to the power of film and its potential to foster community. 

Her journey into the film industry began at just 18 years old, when she started working in film festivals simply as a way to be around what she loved most—movies. Over time, that passion evolved into a deep appreciation for the unique experiences film festivals provide.

“I really believe in the transformative power of cinema and connection and cultivating community,” McLennan said.

Her career has taken her to some of the world’s most renowned film festivals, including Sydney Film Festival, Sundance and Tribeca, before bringing her back to her home to San Luis Obispo. Now, she is shaping the local film scene and expanding its reach through year-round programming.

One of McLennan’s proudest career moments was the establishment of the SLO Film Center at the Palm Theatre, a cherished local venue. “It’s a place I treasure near and dear to my heart, and I hope that our vision helps ensure its future for many years to come,” she said.

Like many industries, the film world comes with its challenges, particularly for women.

“I think not only just as a woman but as a younger woman, people judge you on your appearance and have certain expectations of you,” McLennan shared. “There is this constant feeling that you have more to prove and that you also need to be ‘nice’ so you don’t come off the wrong way.”

Though Women’s History Month is an important time to reflect on the achievements of women throughout history, McLennan believes in celebrating those contributions every single day.

“Don’t be afraid to take risks and support one another. I believe in the power of collaboration and a team of peers that uplift each other. Identify the people that support you and hold onto them.”

March is Women’s History Month, a time to celebrate the achievements, resilience and contributions of women who have shaped history and continue to pave the way for future generations. 

Here at the CIE, we are proud to spotlight inspiring women who are making an impact in the field of entrepreneurship and beyond. Throughout the month, we’ll be sharing the stories of incredible women who are driving innovation and empowering others to follow their dreams.

Our first spotlight shines on Mayela Fernandez, Cal Poly MBA student and co-founder of Ecoplasticity, a startup committed to revolutionizing sustainability in the food industry.

Fernandez witnessed firsthand how sustainability was no longer just a trend, but rather an essential part of business. This propelled her to take action and create Ecoplasticity’s first product, a biodegradable seaweed-based coating that could replace plastic. 

Fernandez and her business partner, Michelle Cullen (materials engineering, ‘24), developed the perfect formula for their sustainable coating. “That breakthrough validated months of research, problem-solving, and persistence,” she explained. “It was a powerful reminder that women can drive innovation and create meaningful change when they pursue their passions with determination.”

Fernandez is familiar with the challenges that come with working in an industry that is often shaped by male-driven perspectives. She noticed that many leadership strategies and negotiation tactics were framed through a male lens, which initially made it difficult to find her own footing. 

“One of my personal challenges has been redefining what success looks like for me as a woman in this space. I’ve learned to prioritize my well-being, set boundaries, and embrace a more balanced approach to leadership,” she said. 

Fernandez credits her success to the strong women who have guided and supported her. Her mother and sister have been her greatest role models, while the women leaders in her father’s company reinforced her belief in the power of women’s leadership.

“Women’s History Month is a time to celebrate the achievements and contributions of women who have paved the way for us,” she said. “For me, it’s an opportunity to amplify women’s voices, support one another, and inspire the next generation to dream big and break barriers.”

In honor of Black History Month, we’re excited to spotlight Hush Harbor Artisan Bakery & Café, a beloved staple in Atascadero that’s been bringing delicious, handcrafted bread and baked goods to the Central Coast for over two decades. Founded by Donnie Monroe and Penni Monroe, this Black-owned bakery has become a true gem for locals and visitors alike.

Donnie Monroe, with a background in aerospace, discovered his passion for European-style bread later in life. After years in the aerospace industry, he shifted gears and pursued his dream of opening a bakery. He attended the San Francisco Baking Institute and honed his skills working at Simple Simon’s Bakery & Bistro in Riverside before launching Hush Harbor in 2003.

While Donnie Monroe oversees the baking, Penni Monroe has taken on the business side of Hush Harbor, ensuring that the bakery stays rooted in the local community and is a place where everyone feels welcome. They’ve faced challenges as one of the only Black-owned businesses in Atascadero, but the support from loyal customers and the local community has helped them persevere, especially during difficult times such as the pandemic and social unrest.

The bakery specializes in artisanal bread, made from scratch pastries and other comforting meals. Every loaf is crafted by hand, with no machines or automation, but simply years of expertise and patience. The Monroes’ commitment to quality is clear, and their customers rave about the textures, flavors and beauty of their baked goods. Some of the most popular items include the morning glory muffins, chocolate chip cookies and the seasonal sweet potato pies, all made with fresh ingredients and prepared daily.

Whether you’re stopping by for breakfast, lunch or a freshly baked loaf, you’re sure to experience the Monroes’ dedication to quality and their commitment to their community. To support this Hush Harbor, visit them at 5735 El Camino Real in Atascadero.

Alcohol misuse costs U.S. employers an estimated $249 billion per year in lost productivity, healthcare expenses and workplace incidents. Owen Works, founder and CEO of Horizen Tech, is on a mission to help individuals and companies make more informed health choices regarding alcohol use. Horizen Tech provides corporate wellness solutions focused on alcohol accountability and behavior change, helping businesses reduce absenteeism, increase productivity and support employee well-being.

His entrepreneurial journey began in 2022 when Works saw a flyer for an Elevator Pitch Competition hosted by the Cal Poly Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE), and decided to try his luck.

Brainstorming an idea that could be presented at the competition and possibly carried on afterward, Works took inspiration from his own experiences and identified a growing movement: sober curiosity. He wanted to develop a solution that supports individuals looking to build healthier drinking habits and explore a lifestyle with less alcohol.

“I think I was terrified because deep down, I knew this is something I really wanted to do, and I was worried I was going to screw it up. But it’s better to try it and possibly screw it up than to never try at all,” Works reminisced.

At the time, public speaking was not a strong suit for Works, but he pitched his idea for an alcohol-detection patch. He won first place in the competition and the grand prize of $1,000. 

Following the momentum from his successful elevator pitch, Works participated in Startup Launch Weekend, an event where entrepreneurial students work for an entire weekend to advance and develop a tangible business.

That following spring, Horizen joined Innovation Quest, an innovation-centered showcase for Cal Poly entrepreneurs to pursue their ideas and gain funding.

As a fifth-year Cal Poly Industrial Engineer minoring in entrepreneurship, Works was able to leverage his academic network and resources. Horizen has collaborated with students across both the business and engineering colleges, working with over 30 student interns to develop the product and refine the business model. These students have played a critical role in research, product design, and software development, helping drive the startup forward.

Horizen Tech was accepted into the 2023 Summer Accelerator, a 12-week intensive program where Cal Poly students and recent graduates transform their business ideas into startups with the help of a $10,000 in seed funding and local resources.

Upon the conclusion of the Accelerator, Horizen Tech joined the CIE Incubator Program in November 2023, a 2-year full-time program that provides resources in all aspects of early-stage companies to develop into high-growth enterprises; including a dedicated desk in the CIE HotHouse coworking space in downtown San Luis Obispo. Works spotlights the importance of this, mentioning the significance of a sense of community in the field of entrepreneurship, which can be so isolating for founders.

 “When we were in the Accelerator, we knew for sure that the Incubator was the place that we wanted to go after that,” Works adds.

In May 2024, Horizen Tech was one of six startups to pitch at AngelCon, an event hosted by the Cal Poly CIE Small Business Development Center (SBDC) that brings together tech-based startups who receive training and mentorship from expert business advisors and a group of dedicated angel investors.

Works remarked that during AngelCon, “the access to consultants and mentors in different areas, whether that be customer development, finance or marketing, has been instrumental.”

Horizen Tech’s first product, Pulse, is an app designed to support sober-curious individuals by providing accountability, connection and resources. The app pairs with the Pulse Patch, a wearable device that detects alcohol levels in sweat, helping users track their drinking habits and make informed health decisions.

Over time, the wearable patch has evolved into a continuous monitoring device, much like a glucose monitor, that enables individuals to make informed choices about their health. Through Pulse, users can share achievements and goals with their trusted inner circles, providing viable proof of abstinence to sponsors, family or employers.

Eventually, Horizen Tech intends to integrate data with Fitbit and Apple Health, allowing users to correlate their lifestyle choices with well-being practices, such as quality of sleep and impacts of caffeine intake.

In January 2025, Horizen Tech hosted its first-ever SLO Dry January Challenge, attracting over 100 participants. The initiative encouraged community members to abstain from alcohol for the entire month, offering incentives such as cash prizes, yoga sessions and gifts from local businesses. The impact was significant: 97% of participants rated the challenge as successful or very successful, with 69% stating they would participate in a future challenge. Most participants successfully completed the month, reinforcing the effectiveness of structured accountability in fostering healthier habits. 

Works has organized this event to “encourage better health decisions in the community and really make it a fun experience. It is kind of like a preview of what’s to come with our challenges that will be part of the platform.”

With the Pulse Patch now in manufacturing and software development accelerating, Horizen Tech is expanding its corporate wellness offerings. The startup is focused on helping individuals and businesses create healthier environments around alcohol consumption and is on track to make a lasting impact on workplace wellness and personal health.

In honor of Black History Month, the CIE is spotlighting Black-owned businesses across San Luis Obispo county that brings creativity and community to the Central Coast. This week, we are celebrating A Satellite of Love, a vibrant space where art, music and culture intersect. 

Owned and operated by Malik Miko Thorne, the boutique offers an eclectic mix of vintage clothing, vinyl records, books, artisanal decor and handmade goods. Beyond its curated selection, A Satellite of Love also serves as a gathering place that fosters connection, reflecting Thorne’s deep commitment to community. 

Thorne took full ownership of the shop after buying out his friends and has since used his background in the arts to shape A Satellite of Love into a space that goes beyond retail. Before the pandemic, the shop regularly hosted music nights, movie screenings in collaboration with Arts Obispo and small performances from local and traveling musicians. It was one of the few places in downtown San Luis Obispo where people could experience live entertainment outside of the typical bar scene.

Born in Hawaii to a Black and Indigenous father and an Indian mother, Thorne spent much of his early life moving between Georgia and the Bay Area before attending Cal Poly. His passion for music led him to KCPR, Cal Poly’s college radio station, where he discovered a welcoming and creative community that solidified his love for San Luis Obispo.

His love for music later led him to host a soul show on KCBX, San Luis Obispo’s public radio station, and eventually into a career as a DJ for weddings and events for over 15 years. His experience in radio, music and event production continues to shape the vision for A Satellite of Love as a dynamic space that bridges the gap between retail and expression.

A Satellite of Love is a reflection of Thorne’s dedication to fostering independent business, artistic expression and meaningful connections. You can visit A Satellite of Love at 1335 Walker St, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401, or check out their online store here.

This Black History Month, we’re highlighting Black-owned businesses that are making an impact in San Luis Obispo. This week, we’re shining a spotlight on Ebony SLO, the first Ethiopian restaurant in the area, founded by sisters Helen Abraha and Martha Taezaz. With a deep passion for cooking and a mission to bring authentic Ethiopian flavors to the Central Coast, Ebony is more than just a restaurant — it’s a celebration of culture and community. 

Growing up in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Abraha and Taezaz learned the art of cooking from their mother, who instilled in them the value of patience, love and tradition in the kitchen. Abraha’s passion led her to earn a Culinary Arts degree, while Taezaz pursued formal training at Ethiopia’s Catering and Tourism Training Institute. 

Together, they’ve combined their expertise and lifelong love of food to create Ebony SLO, a restaurant that honors their roots while introducing Ethiopian cuisine to a new audience.

Since opening in December 2023, Ebony has quickly gained a loyal following, offering an entirely organic, vegan, and gluten-free menu. Staples like misir wot (a flavorful red lentil stew), shiro (a rich chickpea dish) and freshly made injera (a traditional fermented flatbread) transport customers to the heart of Ethiopia with every bite. 

Beyond the food, Ebony introduces an essential part of Ethiopian culture: the tradition of sharing meals.

“In Ethiopia, food is always about sharing,” Taezaz explained in an interview with Mustang News. “We eat together from one big plate, and that’s what makes it special.”

For many customers, Ebony has become a place to experience not only new flavors but also the warmth and hospitality that define Ethiopian dining. Regulars have praised the restaurant not just for its incredible food, but for the dedication and heart that Abraha and Taezaz put into every dish.

Abraha and Taezaz’s journey reflects the resilience, passion and dedication of Black entrepreneurs in San Luis Obispo. While Black History Month serves as a time to recognize and uplift Black-owned businesses, support shouldn’t stop when February ends.

As the sisters continue to introduce more people to the beauty of Ethiopian food, the best way to support them is simple: show up, spread the word and celebrate the diversity that makes San Luis Obispo a richer place to live.

Visit Ebony SLO at 778 Higuera St, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401, or visit their website. 

To kick off Black History Month, we’re spotlighting Thrifty Beaches, a unique vintage clothing and furniture shop in the heart of Downtown San Luis Obispo. Founded by Adam Kemp, MBA student from California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly), Thrifty Beaches is a testament to resilience, sustainability and entrepreneurship. 

The inspiration to start Thrifty Beaches began both financial and practical. “Not having money inspired me. I needed to make more, and once I got more, it turned into a passion for sustainability and wanting to give clothing a second or third or fourth life,” Kemp explained. 

What began with a chance discovery of vintage dining chairs at a Goodwill Outlet quickly grew into a thriving business, with over 15,000 pieces sold and a loyal clientele of more than 3,000 people in San Luis Obispo alone. But, the journey hasn’t been easy. 

Opening a storefront in the center of Downtown SLO came with unexpected challenges, including fines and code enforcement issues. Despite these hurdles, Kemp pushed forward, fueled by a commitment to his community. 

“I could’ve stopped there and said screw it, I can’t do anything. But I kept trying. That stems from having influential people in the back of my mind that pushed through so much adversity in their lives.” 

Kemp drew inspiration from figures like Langston Hughes and Malcom X. 

“Langston Hughes was one of my favorite Black icons as a kid. Malcom X reminds me to be strong in the face of adversity, and to not allow a door closing to stop me,” Kemp said. 

Kemp also sees Thrifty Beaches as part of a larger mission to bring diversity to San Luis Obispo. “If you can make it here, you can make it anywhere,” he explained, encouraging other entrepreneurs of color to pursue their dreams in San Luis Obispo. He believes the city needs more diversity and urges the community to show support not just during Black History Month, but year-round. 

To support Thrifty Beaches Headquarters, visit them downtown at 876 Higuera Street or check them out on Instagram @thrifty.beaches.

On January 30th of every year, we celebrate National Croissant Day, honoring the buttery, flaky pastry that is beloved worldwide. The holiday itself was established in 2006, but the pastry’s origins trace back centuries.

In 1863, during the siege of Vienna by the Turkish Empire, bakers who worked in basement storerooms heard the sounds of underground tunneling. Their timely alert allowed the city’s army to end the attack. To commemorate this victory, the bakers crafted a crescent-shaped pastry symbolizing the Ottoman Empire’s crescent moon. 

Once the Turks were defeated, it became tradition to serve this crescent-shaped pastry with morning coffee. Though many people believe croissants come from France, its journey began in Austria before French bakeries altered the recipe to use puff pastry. 

In honor of this holiday, we’re taking a delicious journey through San Luis Obispo County and beyond to highlight some of our favorite bakeries in the area: 

• Back Porch Bakery, founded by Dan and Caroline Berkeland, began as a back porch operation in 2011, sharing freshly baked bread with friends and neighbors in San Luis Obispo. Their passion for community and quality grew into a business that now serves over 120 local establishments. The bakery remains rooted in fostering connections through their artisanal breads and pastries. Back Porch Bakery is located at 289 Prado Rd., San Luis Obispo, CA 93405. 
• Bijou Bakery, located in Cayucos, California, was created by Jeniece Grimshaw, who is a Le Cordon Bleu graduate with over a decade of professional baking experience. After moving to San Luis Obispo County in 2015 and finding success in the local wedding industry, Grimshaw launched Bijou Bakery in June of 2020. The bakery offers high-quality, French-inspired pastries, quickly becoming a central coast gem. Visit Bijou Bakery at 149 Cayucos Dr., Cayucos, CA 93430. 
• Bread Bike is a small organic bakery in San Luis Obispo that specializes in 100% organic, naturally leavened bread and California-style pastries made with whole grains and locally-sourced ingredients. Bread Bike is unique in that they deliver to community supported bakery members by bicycle. The bakery values their food, farmers, planet and community. Bread Bike can be visited at 2060 Parker St., San Luis Obispo, CA 93401. 
• Budget Café has been a cherished local spot since the mid-1980s, offering a warm, family-friendly atmosphere with affordable meals. This classic diner-style café serves breakfast and lunch all day made with quality ingredients. Budget Café has a welcoming vibe and commitment to creating a home away from home for locals and newcomers. Budget Café is located at 3121 S. Higuera St. #J, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401. 
• Buttercup Bakery & Cafe offers a variety of products from daily-made pastries and freshly baked bread to breakfast and lunch sandwiches, and hand-crafted drinks. With a focus on healthier options, Buttercup Bakery & Cafe enhances traditional recipes by reducing sugar, incorporating whole wheat flour and using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients whenever possible. Buttercup Bakery & Cafe is located at 430 Morro Bay Blvd, Morro Bay, CA 93442. 
• Drizzle Bakery LLC, a women-owned and Latin-owned bakery, was created by Trina Galvan who is a passionate baker with deep roots in the Central Coast’s farming community. Drizzle Bakery started as a cottage kitchen and expanded in March 2023, offering a range of delectable baked goods, including vegan and gluten-free options. Galvan’s artisanal cakes and pastries are made with attention to detail and personalized service. The bakery is located at The Kitchen Terminal at 4750 Allene Way, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401. To place an order, visit Facebook or Instagram @drizzle_bakery_llc.
• Sally Loo’s Wholesome Café, established in 2009, has become a beloved San Luis Obispo spot in the Railroad District. The cafe is dedicated to supporting local farmers and artisans, and crafts house-made recipes and baked goods using locally-sourced ingredients. Their dedication to the art and science of quality coffee, partnering with Cacti Coffee Roasters, provides an extra special coffee experience. Sally Loo’s is located at 1804 Osos St., San Luis Obispo, CA 93401. 
• Tiny Café is a unique art project focused on sustainability, striving to maintain eco-friendly practices within municipal regulations. They compost coffee grounds, encourage customers to avoid disposables and source single-use products from environmentally conscious providers. With a thoughtful approach to every aspect of their service, Tiny Café prioritizes the planet while delivering delicious products! Tiny Café is located at 496 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, CA 93405.

San Luis Obispo County offers a variety of exceptional bakeries that capture the specialty of the croissant and so much more. This National Croissant Day, the CIE encourages you to explore these local gems, support their passion for quality and community and savor every flaky bite. Happy National Croissant Day!

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About the Cal Poly Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship:

The CIE opens a world of entrepreneurial opportunities to Cal Poly students, faculty and community members and promotes entrepreneurial activity and dialogue across the university and throughout San Luis Obispo County. For more information, visit https://cie.calpoly.edu/.