Success Story _ The Buena Viking
The Buena Viking | Buena Vista, CO
Nestled in the heart of Buena Vista, Colorado, the Buena Viking has been more than just a food truck. It's a culinary haven, voted Buena Vista's favorite for five consecutive years, and was crowned the Best Food Truck in the Rockies in 2018. Owned by Evan and Anna Winger, integral community members since 2008, the Buena Viking blends Rocky Mountain passion with culinary excellence, attracting locals and adventurers alike.
After six years of culinary triumph, Evan and Anna embarked on a journey to obtain a permanent location in Buena Vista. Like many rural Main Street businesses, they faced challenges with rent increases and finding viable locations for their food truck. Wisely, they purchased one of the last pieces of vacant land in cooperation with CKS Main Street and began their long-term legacy.
Their visionary three-story building on Main Street, featuring rooftop dining and rental options, secures a permanent home for the Buena Viking while addressing community needs. This includes partnerships with CKS Main Street to enrich the cultural and economic tapestry of Buena Vista.
Turning to the Colorado SBDC serving Central Mountain for guidance, Evan and Anna received invaluable support, from a formatted business expansion plan to strategic funding connections and introductions. This collaboration bore fruit in late 2022, through combined funding from CHFA and High Country Bank, paving the way for construction to commence in spring 2023.
Beyond culinary success, Evan and Anna actively engaged in HR training and shared their inspiring journey at The Power of WE (Women Entrepreneur) Conference. The SBDC not only expanded their knowledge but also facilitated connections, showcasing the transformative power of collaboration within the entrepreneurial community.
Anticipating the early 2024 opening of its brick-and-mortar location, the Buena Viking emerges as a symbol of entrepreneurial spirit and community resilience. Their rallying call beckons locals and tourists alike to savor more than just the delectable cuisine. It invites them to immerse in the community's rich tapestry, the majesty of the Rocky Mountains, and the dual serenity and excitement offered by the Arkansas River, encapsulating the unique blend of peace and adventure that defines Buena Vista. As the doors of their new establishment swing open, the Buena Viking not only celebrates its culinary triumphs but invites all to partake in the vibrant story of Buena Vista's growth and vitality.
For more information, visit The Buena Viking.
Discover Other Inspiring Success Stories
Want to read about other Colorado small businesses doing amazing things in our state?
Get Help For Your Small Business
The Colorado Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is Colorado’s most trusted business resource. We empower businesses to launch, advance, and thrive, ultimately fueling innovation, strengthening local economies, and driving economic vitality across the state. Since 1987, the Colorado SBDC has been the state's only nationally accredited, go-to resource for entrepreneurs and business owners at every stage. With 14 Service Centers, over 25 Satellite Centers, and a network of approximately 300 business experts, the Colorado SBDC delivers no-cost, confidential one-on-one advising, essential training, and vital connections to community partners.
The Colorado Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Colorado SBDC is a partnership between the State of Colorado, Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade, the Small Business Administration (SBA), Colorado’s institutions of higher education, local economic development organizations and local chambers of commerce.
This program is supported by Federal Funding.