A $10,000 Small Business Incentive Grant was recently presented to Lana Bianchi, Owner and Topher Jacobson, General Manager of Benny’s at The NU Franklin, by Heather Bregel, Director of the New Ulm EDA. Learn more about Benny’s below:
Business: Benny’s at The NU Franklin
Business Address: 126 N Minnesota St
Business Contact: Phone: (507)766-2006 Email: topher@thepepperboy.com
Social Media Links: nufranklin.com and Facebook.com/NUFranklin
Why did you choose to open your business in New Ulm?
We chose New Ulm because it’s home – we both grew up here. There’s a lot of history and nostalgia tied to this town, and we wanted to be part of what comes next. The goal has been to keep that familiar feel people love, while bringing in something fresh that adds new energy to downtown.
How has the New Ulm EDA/newulmbusiness.com helped you with your business startup?
The New Ulm Economic Development Authority (EDA) played a key role in our startup by helping us access funding through low-interest loan programs and new business grant opportunities. This support allowed us to move forward with necessary investments and improvements while managing startup costs responsibly and building a foundation for long-term sustainability.
Tell us something exciting about your business.
What’s most exciting about our business is that it doesn’t fit into a single category. It’s not just a bar, restaurant, or event space – it’s all of those, depending on the night. Guests might come in for wood-fired pizza and cocktails, experience live music, or to attend a private event. That flexibility allows the space to constantly evolve while giving people a reason to come back again and again.
Have you cooperated/contracted with any other local businesses?
Yes, collaboration with local businesses and individuals has been an important part of our startup and ongoing operations.
We partnered with Sweet Haven Tonics, expanding our PepperBoy offerings beyond our walls by placing QR codes directly on their tables. Guests can order our wood-fired pizza from their location, and we prepare and deliver it to them. This has created a seamless, mutually beneficial relationship – enhancing their guest experience while expanding our reach. We also serve drinks made with Sweet Haven Tonics mixers as well as Schell’s and Black Frost Distilling products.
We have also built strong relationships with local musicians, providing live music three nights a week. These collaborations not only support local talent but also help create a vibrant, consistent atmosphere that draws both residents and visitors to our space.
What advice do you have for anyone else thinking of starting a business in New Ulm?
Follow your heart and don’t be afraid of the challenge. Take the time to understand the community, respect what’s here, and build relationships while bringing something new
