BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — The People's Opportunity Program for Underserved Communities, or POP Up for short, is help minority small businesses like Katy's Creative Catering thrive.

Katy Cole, owner of the catering restaurant, was one of the few who qualified for the grant from POP up. 

She said the experience of now having her own restaurant after catering out of her home for years is all she can ask for.

“It’s indescribable how thankful I am," Cole said. "Every morning I get up, I pinch myself and I feel like I’m living in a dream.”

Katy's Creative Catering was selected to receive the grant and kitchen space out of a number of prospective entrepreneurs. POP Up Board member Aquesha Daniels said it was an easy decision to help Cole with her business.  

“She has the tenacity, the will power, spirit and passion," Daniels said. "I think those things are true when you want to come back and serve the community that served you."

Cole has catered up to 35 events a year including parities and weddings. POP Up helped her get set up in a place with a kitchen and lower rent, something that is important for Cole. She's not just here to serve food, but encouragement as well.

"The lowered rent is definitely an attraction because that is the number one obstacle killing small business is being able to affordable rent," Cole said. "Even more important than that is the neighborhood and being in this neighborhood to facilitate the people who live here not just food – a smile a hug a word of encouragement I'm here for everything.”

Daniels wants to keep the train rolling, helping minority business owners with role models like Cole at the forefront

“We want those who are minority business owners to feel like they belong and they are here for a reason," Daniels said.