Program Used: Tourism Product Development Grant
Description:
Dalicia Bakery and Coffee Shop was established in Harrisburg in 2016 by Samra Alic, in partnership with her daughter, Ajla Alic. Born in Bosnia and having lived in Germany, Samra wanted to share her baking and cooking skills in a way that would expose area residents and visitors to European-style cuisine. The restaurant gained an established customer base and a large following on social media.
In 2019, they decided to relocate to Mechanicsburg, purchasing and repurposing an empty building in a prime location and bringing a new cuisine option to the downtown. The building — built as a church and last used as an art gallery — offered great potential to expand the business.
The project was financed through a combination of cash contributions by the owner and loans and grants from various organizations, including a Tourism Product Development Grant from CAEDC for $29,683.72 to cover equipment and fixtures.
With CAEDC’s grant, Samra and Ajla purchased an oven/flat top combo, dishwasher, hood and installation, booths and tables/chairs, a walk-in cooler, a sink, and a fryer.
The new location opened as Dalicia Ristorante and Bakery in January 2021, when restaurants were allowed to operate at 50% capacity during the pandemic. With the larger space, the mother and daughter duo expanded their menu to include breakfast and lunch items while still featuring their original cakes, pastries, and desserts.
Sales during their first ten months exceeded business plan predictions, and the restaurant has quickly become a must-stop location in downtown Mechanicsburg.
Testimonial:
“This grant program is a life-saver for small business owners. It provides a sense of community and hope to help dreams come true and gives business owners the start they need to run a successful business.” — Samra Alic
