Every entrepreneur WACIF supports is writing a story of resilience and innovation and Samantha Abrams of Sapodilla’s Caribbean Restaurant and Catering is no exception. 

Opening Sapodilla’s in historic Anacostia was a long-time dream rooted in family, culture, and entrepreneurship. After moving to the United States with her parents and siblings in 1993, Samantha grew up surrounded by food, gastronomy, and the example of parents who built thriving businesses of their own. That foundation inspired her to bring the flavors and warmth of the Caribbean to Washington, DC. 

But turning vision into reality takes more than passion. As a brand-new business, Samantha faced challenges accessing operating capital through traditional sources. She needed a financial “security blanket” to confidently launch and grow. 

With support from WACIF, made possible by TD Ready Challenge funds, Sapodilla’s was able to access the capital needed to move forward, transforming a dream into a thriving business. Today, Sapodilla’s is more than a restaurant. It’s a welcoming home built on family, women-led leadership, and community impact, with a client portfolio that includes Mastercard, the Obama Foundation, GEICO, and more. 

Samantha’s advice to other entrepreneurs is simple but powerful: “bet on yourself. View WACIF as an investor in your vision, stay organized, know your numbers, and don’t be afraid to be vulnerable—because when you invest in people first, real impact follows.” 

Watch Samantha’s story and see how WACIF turns vision into impact. 

Interested in learning more about WACIF’s services? Click here to explore our different lending options and see how we can help you turn you vision into impact.