Where:
Bishop, Inyo County, California

Problem:
Small business owners needed financing to expand their business.

Solution:
RCAC’s Loan Fund provided a $69,500 loan.

Bishop is the only incorporated city and the largest populated place in Inyo County, California. It is located 42 miles south of Mammoth Lakes, a well-known destination for skiers and hikers.

Sage to Summit is a mountain sports retail outfitter that specializes in mountain climbing and skiing shoes, clothing, equipment and accessories. Karen K. Schwartz, an experienced business woman and Bishop’s mayor, and Howard K. Schwartz, widely regarded as an elite climber with more than 30 years of experience, own the business.

Since 2006, Sage to Summit has operated at a modest profit, relying heavily on the summer season that attracts climbers from all over the world. With a $69,500 loan from RCAC, the Schwartz’s rented a building next to the Sage to Summit storefront in the downtown area. This enabled them to expand their business by creating an indoor climbing gym and fitness center.

The project required an extensive building renovation, including ceiling removal, installing an access way to connect the two stores and padded flooring.

The gym provides both locals and visitors with year-round climbing, and has increased Sage to Summit’s customer traffic during winter months. The Schwartz’s planned to hire two part-time employees to run the gym and existing storefront, in addition to the three already employed.
RCAC