Success Story: Sweet Bean Coffee House

Crafting A Family Dream into Business Success with Sweet Bean Coffee House in Chico 

Location: Northern California | Butte County | Chico

Business Type: Coffee Shop

CalOSBA Partners: Butte College Small Business Development Center (SBDC)

Assistance Received: Business advising and access to capital

Visit Sweet Bean Coffee House online.

For Ronda Moore-Gambone and her daughter, Sarah Goings, owning a coffee shop was a long-held dream that always seemed just out of reach. Their shared passion for coffee was deeply rooted in personal experiences—especially Sarah’s time studying abroad in Italy while attending Chico State, where she discovered her love for authentic, high-quality coffee.

Fast forward a few years later, and the perfect opportunity to realize their goal arrived––the family had the chance to open a coffee shop at a prime location in Chico. Seizing the moment, Ronda, Sarah, and their spouses decided to take a leap of faith, starting on their entrepreneurial journey by opening Sweet Bean Coffee House, a family-owned and operated retail and online, drive-through coffee house specializing in coffee, teas, pastries, and breakfast eats.

Turning their dream into reality wasn’t without its challenges. Despite their enthusiasm, they faced hurdles such as understanding business structures, legal requirements, accounting, marketing strategies, and developing a viable business plan. They also had already locked in a lease and were already incurring business expenses.

That’s when they found out about the services offered by the Butte College Small Business Development Center (SBDC). The SBDC provided invaluable support through one-on-one business consulting, helping them identify the appropriate business structure for their Limited Liability Company (LLC). The SBDC also helped with completing partnership agreements, securing necessary licenses and permits, and implementing best practices in accounting, marketing, and financial management.  With the SBDC’s guidance, they crafted an effective business plan with realistic projections crucial for startup and ongoing management.

Thanks to the SBDC’s personalized business advising, and the business owners’ hard work, Sweet Bean Coffee House successfully opened its doors, launching with a dedicated team of 15 employees.

Reflecting on their journey, Ronda and Sarah credit the personalized business consulting and hands-on guidance from the SBDC as the most impactful support they received. Today, Sweet Bean Coffee House stands as a thriving testament to family dedication, expert mentorship, and the sweet taste of entrepreneurial success.

Make sure to visit Sweet Bean Coffee House for some delicious coffee and a tasty treat. And, if you’re in Butte County and have your own business dream you’d like to turn into a reality, connect with the Butte College SBDC today.

[July, 2025]