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V O L . X X X I N O. X I X 38 Fact Book / Doing Business in Maine B U S I N E S S R E S O U R C E S Hot Suppa offers that and more When Amber Nachreiner and her partner, Cameron Rodrigues, set out to purchase Hot Suppa, they weren't just acquiring a restaurant — they were inheriting a Portland institution. Housed in an 1860s Victorian on Congress Street, Hot Suppa has been a beloved destination for southern com- fort food since 2006, thanks to founders Alec and Moses Sabina. Both Amber and Cameron brought years of restaurant experience to the table — Nachreiner as a longtime Hot Suppa staff member, and Rodrigues as a seasoned bartender and kitchen trainee under Moses Sabina. Determined to honor the restaurant's legacy, they reached out early to Maine SBDC for guidance. Enter Chris Cole, a senior business advisor with deep roots in the restaurant industry and a reputation for empower- ing her clients. "Chris was empowering with her words, but also gracious and brilliant," Nachreiner said. Chris's expertise proved invaluable as she guided them through LLC formation, licensing, landlord negotiations, and finalizing the purchase. Financing was a significant chal- lenge in a tough lending climate, but with Chris's help, Amber and Cameron secured an SBA 7(a) loan through Bangor Savings Bank and additional working capital, ensuring a smooth transition and a strong start for their new venture. Now operating as Camber Hospitality LLC, Nachreiner and Rodrigues are committed to preserving Hot Suppa's scratch-made menu, cozy booths and welcoming atmosphere. eir thoughtful stewardship and public commitment to keeping the vibe intact have reassured loyal customers and reinforced their respect for the restaurant's heritage. With support from the SBA, a dedi- cated team of local bankers and the expert guidance of Chris Cole, Nachreiner and Rodrigues are leading Hot Suppa con- fidently into its next chapter. Hot Suppa owners Amber Nachreiner and her partner, Cameron Rodrigues. The SBA works with banks and small businesses around Maine B y S B A S t a f f The Small Business Administration is active in facilitating small business loans throughout Maine. It works with banks on terms that will work for small business owners. Here are a few examples of how the SBA works with banks and business owners in Maine. C O N T I N U E D O N PA G E 4 2 » EDITOR'S NOTE: The Hot Suppa and Acadia Insulation stories are courtesy of the Small Business Development Center, in cooperation with the SBA. P H O T O S / C O U R T E S Y O F H O T S U P PA

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