The Crepe Factory | Application Preview
The Crêpe Factory is seeking government grant funding to support its growth and continued contribution to the revitalization of Inman, South Carolina. Despite challenges brought on by COVID-19, a major hurricane, and recent inflation, the business has remained open and resilient. With grant assistance, they plan to offset rising operational costs, upgrade important kitchen equipment, and expand their space with an outdoor seating area to better serve customers and accommodate new traffic from the soon-to-open Saluda Grade Rail Trail.
The trail is expected to significantly boost tourism and economic activity in the area, and The Crêpe Factory—located directly across from the trail’s starting point—is well-positioned to be one of the destination’s key attractions. Plans include a health-conscious menu refresh and infrastructure improvements to enhance the town's overall appeal.
The application emphasizes the owner's deliberate investment in a struggling downtown, restoration of a historic building, and commitment to community uplift, describing the restaurant as both a local favorite and a driver of economic development. The Crêpe Factory distinguishes itself from nearby competitors through its elevated Southern bistro experience, full-service dining, event-driven community engagement, and its pivotal role in Inman’s renewal.
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General Information
Business Registration Number: 47-5173374
Location: Inman, SC, United States
Length of Operation: 6-10
Number of Employees: 1-10 Employees
Annual Gross Income: Less than $100k
Annual Gross Expense: Less than $100k
Open to Loans: NO
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Funding Usage
Like many independent businesses, we’ve weathered one blow after another—the economic toll of COVID-19, Hurricane Helene and now inflation, rising food costs, and soaring overhead. But we didn’t give up. We stayed open, adapted, and continued pouring life into a town many had written off. Now, with the right funding, we’re ready to take the next leap forward. We would use the investment to offset escalating supply and utility costs, upgrade essential kitchen equipment, and build out an outdoor seating area to increase capacity and accessibility.
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Business Plan
Our area is going through a massive revitalization due to the impending addition of the Saluda Grade Rail Trail. Trails like this bring new visitors, increase foot traffic for local businesses, and inspire new development in nearby areas. This kind of project doesn’t just bring recreation brings long-term economic growth for the entire community. We are located right across the street from the trail and it will begin in our town. On a personal level, we are planning on creating outdoor dining, implementing a new menu to add more healthy options for outdoor enthusiasts and helping support our small town by being a draw to the area. When I chose to invest in Inman, it wasn’t a thriving destination—it was a town on the edge of economic stagnation. I took a calculated risk because I believed in its potential. I didn’t just open a restaurant—I restored a historic building, created jobs, and became one of the anchors of Inman’s downtown revival. Today, The Crêpe Factory is not only a local favorite, but a draw for visitors and a catalyst for additional business growth. My success didn’t happen by chance—it was the result of vision, grit, and the ability to create momentum where others saw uncertainty. That’s the kind of leadership and return-on-impact that makes me a smart investment.
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Self Identified Competition
(1) Granny's Kitchen: We both offer breakfast and brunch, and we’re both rooted in Southern culture and located in downtown Inman. (2) Mon Amie Morning Cafe: We both focus on crêpe offerings and brunch clientele. However, they are located in Spartanburg - about 25 minutes away. (3) Maverick Biscuit: We both offer breakfast and brunch but they are focused more of a Fast-casual cafe offering oversized biscuits and combos. (1) Granny's Kitchen: Granny’s leans into familiarity; we bring innovation. The Crêpe Factory elevates the Southern experience with a bistro twist—offering scratch-made dishes, curated drinks, elevated service, and events that foster community engagement. We’re not just where people go to eat—we’re where they go to gather. (2) Mon Amie Morning Cafe: Mon Amie is a café—The Crêpe Factory is a full-service bistro. Our menu has more depth, our space has more character, and our events create lasting memories. We also carry the torch for revitalizing Inman. (3) Maverick Biscuit: While Maverick offers a grab-and-go vibe, we offer a sit-down experience designed to gather, slow down and savor. From wine dinners and chef-led classes to refined plating and small-town hospitality, The Crêpe Factory delivers an experience.
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Contact Applicant
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