Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Cody Ford, owner of Providence at 5280, located in Edgewater, CO, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

We are a neighborhood restaurant and bar. We love Colorado and the beautiful luxuries of nature that comes with it. We heavily try to support local companies and people. We want every customer to come in just for the vibe, and community Providence provides to the people.

Tell us about yourself

I worked in the oil field and was ready for a change. I started working at Providence Tavern as a bar back. I was hoping to learn about the service industry and purchase Providence. After a few years of working at Providence, it closed. I went to work for a different company in a completely different field. After about eight months, an opportunity came up to purchase Providence and re-open as Providence at 5280! I left a good-paying job with great benefits and put it all on the line, so to speak. It was very challenging to re-open the space after it had been closed for numerous reasons. After being open for about nine months, we were hit by the pandemic. Luckily, we are surrounded by a great community and local government committed to our success. We learned to adapt and overcome. This is when we realize that this is the neighborhood business owners' dream of being a part of. This is what motivates me to get up and do it again every day.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Surviving the pandemic.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

Realizing that it's your business, you have to put in the work. No one is going to do it for you.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Find a great community.
  2. Fill the needs of that community.
  3. Stay committed to that community.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.providence5280.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Providence-At-5280-1055106738018534/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/providenceat5280/


If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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