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They knew the atmosphere they wanted to create, the menu they wanted to serve, and the customers they hoped to attract.
What they needed was help developing a roadmap to turn that vision into reality.
For that, they turned to the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Pittsburg State University, which for 40 years has provided guidance and consulting services to entrepreneurs and small business owners throughout Southeast Kansas.
This fall, the center relocated to the lower level of the newly renovated and reopened Besse Hotel, placing it in the heart of downtown Pittsburg and within easy reach of the business community it serves.
"The location was designed with clients in mind," said Regional Director Dacia Clark. "Whether it's an existing business looking to increase sales or a startup trying to get off the ground, we provide our clients with quality professional and personal care. Our services go beyond conventional consulting, emphasizing a commitment to helping Southeast Kansas businesses thrive at the highest level."
Clark's team includes Small Business Advisor Amy Sawyer, State Marketing Manager Mindy Lee and Marketing Assistant Lizzie Casner, and Administrative Support Specialist Terri Blessent. The center is part of Pittsburg State's Economic and Community Engagement, led by Associate Vice President Wes Streeter.
The SBDC serves current and prospective business owners across Southeast Kansas, providing assistance with business planning, financing, cash flow projections, marketing strategies, social media training, financial analysis, and more. Most services are offered at little to no cost.
Among the center's newest clients are the team behind Social South, the restaurant and social club that the group of alumni are planning for the south side of Pittsburg in the space formerly occupied by Chatters, which closed in May.
Butcher and Sage, colleagues at CDL Electric who frequently travel together, said experiences in larger cities helped inspire the concept.
"When we travel, we experience places with amenities and a certain energy and vibe that we wanted to bring to Pittsburg," Butcher said.
The restaurant will feature an American bistro-style menu, affordable cocktails, and artwork by local artists Ted Watts and Dick Coleman. The owners envision a destination that appeals to Pitt State alumni who return to town for athletic events and other occasions.
Larson brings restaurant industry expertise to the venture as owner of Social Waldo — a popular restaurant in Kansas City's Waldo neighborhood that was recognized as the 2024 Sports Bar of the Year.
The group believes the concept fills a need in the local market.
"There is demand here for a restaurant on the south end of town," Sage said.
The owners are targeting an October opening and are making cosmetic improvements to the restaurant's interior and patio areas. They also view the project as an opportunity to generate revenue they will use to support broader community initiatives.
Throughout the planning process, Sawyer has worked closely with the ownership group on financing options, commercial lending, cash flow projections, and business plan development. They meet frequently to discuss progress.
"The SBDC helped us put structure around our ideas," Butcher said. "Having access to that expertise was helpful. We all have full-time jobs, so having Amy be able to provide guidance and run the traps for us is important."
For Clark, stories like Social South demonstrate the value of the center's work.
"Our goal is to help entrepreneurs succeed," she said. "When local businesses grow and new businesses open, it strengthens communities across the region."
The Kansas Small Business Development Center at Pittsburg State University is the leading regional consulting organization dedicated to supporting current and aspiring small business owners. Serving more than 800 clients annually across Southeast Kansas, the center provides professional consulting and training designed to help businesses start, grow, and succeed. The SBDC serves clients in Allen, Anderson, Bourbon, Chautauqua, Cherokee, Coffey, Crawford, Elk, Greenwood, Labette, Linn, Montgomery, Neosho, Wilson, and Woodson counties.
Built 100 years ago through the combined efforts of Chamber members, local investors, business owners, the local newspaper, and a $25,000 contribution from Alexander Besse, the Besse Hotel once served as a hub for community gatherings, celebrations, and civic events. Following a comprehensive renovation, the upper floors now house furnished apartments for 60 students under the direction of University Housing & Residence Life, including many who will participate in a living-learning community connected to the Kelce College of Business.
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