California’s economy is worth a cool $3.9 trillion—the fifth largest in the world. But we don’t just have big tech and corporations to thank for that: small businesses are the backbone of California’s economy, and entrepreneurs deserve their share of the credit. 

Startup founders and entrepreneurs often ask: how do I know when it’s time to scale my business? 

If you ever find yourself at the intersection of Coolidge Avenue and MacArthur Boulevard in Oakland, look for the black building on the corner. You’ll see the side of the building is painted with a mural of people gathered around a table sharing a meal. That’s Café Noir, the brick and mortar space where chef Marisa Gittens is taking her culinary businesses to new heights.

Entrepreneurs need capital to build their businesses—this much is obvious. What’s not so obvious, however, is embarking on the right path to obtaining those capital funds.