Atrévete a Comer Sano: Reaching New Customers Through ConnectLocal
For the past two years, ConnectLocal, a digital marketing initiative funded by the George Kaiser Family Foundation (GKFF), has helped dozens of small businesses across the Tulsa Global District strengthen their online presence, attract new customers, and increase sales through professionally managed advertising campaigns and creative support.
One of those success stories is Atrévete a Comer Sano, a vegetarian and vegan restaurant located at Plaza 21 in East Tulsa and owned by local entrepreneur Laura Vera. Her mission has always been to make healthy eating delicious, affordable, and accessible to the community.
Like many small businesses, however, Laura faced the challenge of reaching customers beyond her existing network. Although her food had built a loyal following, expanding her audience required a stronger digital presence.
That's where ConnectLocal made a difference.
Reaching New Markets
Through targeted Meta (Facebook and Instagram) advertising campaigns managed by the Tulsa Global District, Atrévete a Comer Sano promoted its menu to audiences across Tulsa, helping the business reach customers who had never visited before.
The results came quickly.
Within the first month alone, Laura reported that sales increased by nearly 40%.
Beyond the increase in sales, the campaign introduced the restaurant to entirely new audiences. By promoting the business in both English and Spanish, ConnectLocal helped break language barriers and connect Laura with customers from different backgrounds who may have never discovered her restaurant otherwise.
More Than Advertising
In addition to managing the digital campaigns, the Tulsa Global District developed custom graphics and creative materials that reflected the business's identity and highlighted its healthy menu in an engaging way.
The combination of professional marketing, strategic advertising, and bilingual outreach gave Atrévete a Comer Sano the tools to grow both its online visibility and in-store traffic.
Investing in Local Entrepreneurs
Laura's story demonstrates how investing in small businesses can produce immediate, measurable results. Through ConnectLocal, entrepreneurs receive more than advertising—they gain the resources, expertise, and support needed to compete in today's digital marketplace.
At the Tulsa Global District, we're proud to continue expanding programs like ConnectLocal that empower local entrepreneurs, strengthen neighborhood businesses, and create new opportunities for economic growth throughout our community.
