Finalists for the Calling All Dreamers contest have been announced, and they include a regional retail wine center, a charcuterie and cheese company, an ice cream shop and a Peruvian chicken restaurant.
The annual competition, sponsored by Downtown Sacramento Partnership, is designed to help small-business startups deal with raising capital, the permitting process and other issues. This year’s winner will receive a package valued at more than $100,000, including $20,000 in cash, to open a downtown storefront.
Members of the public can help choose the winner by voting, either online or in person at Nash & Proper.
Here’s a look at the seven finalists:
Gone Grazey: A business offering Instagram-worthy charcuterie and cheese platters, both custom and pre-plated, to go.
Gusto Gaucho: A cafe serving hand-crafted Argentine empanadas and pastries.
Plantura: A Cali-Mexican bakery and “plant cafe” concept serving conchas, galletas and churros.
River City Wine: A retail store repping wines from El Dorado, Amador, Placer, Napa, Sonoma, Calaveras, Yolo and Sacramento counties.
Sweet Tooth Factory: An ice cream scoop shop and “desserterie” serving whimsical takes on childhood treats.
The Jazzy Bird: A Peruvian restaurant concept specializing in rotisserie chicken, with plans for live music.
The Urban Shaman: A retail expansion of Safe Space Bodywork, selling self-care goods.
To vote online for your favorite, go to the contest website. To vote in person, go to Nash & Proper at 1023 K St. during business hours (11 a.m.–2 p.m. Wednesday–Friday, noon–4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday).
