WILLISTON, ND – When Alberto Galvan and his family began baking from their home, it was simply a way to share their love of traditional Mexican breads and pastries with friends and coworkers. But demand quickly outgrew their kitchen, and they started envisioning something bigger – a storefront where the community could enjoy their conchas, empanadas, turnovers, and, more recently, donuts on a regular basis.
With limited experience navigating the complexities of launching a retail business in the U.S., Alberto and his wife turned to the ND SBDC in Williston. Language barriers, legal paperwork, and financial uncertainty could have made the process overwhelming. But with the guidance of advisors Keith Olson and Cyrena Weeks, the Galvans found both practical support and encouragement.
Cyrena worked closely with the couple to establish their legal entity and obtain an EIN, marking their first formal steps into entrepreneurship. From there, discussions quickly turned to securing a commercial space. Though retail costs in Williston posed a concern, they found a strategic entry point: subleasing space from a struggling pizza restaurant. That decision provided a critical runway to test their concept. When the sublease ended, the Galvans were read, taking on a direct lease and launching a full build-out with help from the Williston Star Fund Grant. With that support, they acquired essential equipment including a commercial mixer, oven, refrigerators, and display units.
The shift from home-based baking to a fully operational storefront in November 2022 was transformative. Alberto was able to leave his current job far earlier than expected to work in the bakery full-time, a milestone made possible by careful financial planning and a growing customer base.
Reflecting on their journey, Alberto shared, “Without the help of SBDC we wouldn’t have known how to start our business the right way. We thank God, our family, and the ND SBDC for the support.”
The Galvans continue to recognize the roles both the supportive Williston community and the ND SBDC have played in their journey. As Keith shared, “More than the numbers, we helped reinforce their confidence.” That boost in confidence has paid off. They have expanded their offerings to include donuts by popular request, and the business continues to grow with the full involvement of their family.
In recognition of their hard work, growth, and the positive impact they’ve made on the community, Galvan’s Bakery was named the Williston SBDC 2024 New Business of the Year. The honor was presented during a special ceremony held in September 2024, celebrating outstanding local entrepreneurs. The event, hosted in partnership with Williston Economic Development, showcased the bakery’s inspiring journey from a home-based cottage business to a thriving storefront that has quickly become a local favorite. It was a proud moment for the Galvan family, and a testament to what can be achieved with vision, resilience, and the right support network.