Heather and Mike Wiese, avid meal planners and advocates for healthy living, turned their shared passion for fitness and nutrition into a business perfectly aligned with their values. Founded in 2024, Project Lean Nation Cortland was established to bring healthy, convenient, and accessible meal options to the heart of downtown Cortland. Their storefront, located at 64 Main Street, offers gluten-free pre-packaged meals described by the business as made without preservatives, alongside a retail area and protein shake bar.
While the Wieses possessed a clear vision, launching a franchise storefront required navigating complex financial planning and securing significant capital. To bridge the gap between their vision and the launch, they partnered with the North Central Small Business Development Center.
With strategic guidance, the company secured the funding and planning necessary to open its doors. Today, Project Lean Nation Cortland is outperforming its initial sales goals, growing from $0 at its start to $200,000 in annual sales. The business is located in downtown Cortland, making it accessible to college students, athletes, busy professionals, and local residents seeking to improve their health and nutrition through education and support.
Assistance Provided
Business Advisor:
Michele Baran
Heather and Mike worked closely with SBDC Advisor Michele Baran to refine their business plan and develop the critical cash flow projections required for startup financing. Through this tailored advising, the owners were able to navigate the loan process and solidify their strategy for entering the Cortland market. This support helped the Wieses to secure a $152,000 bank loan complemented by a $30,000 owner investment. These resources were essential for establishing their fresh, welcoming storefront on Main Street and providing the initial capital for inventory and equipment. As a result, PLN Cortland transitioned from a concept to an operating S-Corporation that supports three local employees and provides a health-focused alternative for the city’s residents.
Project Lean Nation Cortland
Founded in 2024, Project Lean Nation Cortland provides healthy pre-packaged meals, subscription services, and a protein shake bar. The company serves the Cortland community by offering convenient, nutritious options designed to help customers achieve wellness goals of all types.
Today, the business reflects Heather and Mike’s interest in supporting healthier routines in the Cortland community. With a downtown location and a growing customer base, they remain focused on expanding access to convenient meal options and wellness support.
** Our success stories focus on the work the SBDC has done with our small business clients and does not constitute an expressed or implied endorsement by the NYSBDC of the company and/or their products and services.
“Heather and I began our process of opening our business with a business plan that outlined our vision and goals. With the support of the Small Business Development Center, we refined that plan and received the guidance needed to successfully launch our store. They were there for support throughout the entire process.”
Mike Wiese | Co-Owner of Project Lean Nation Cortland
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