The U.S. Small Business Administration has recognized Jules’ Bistro in downtown St. Cloud as the 2024 Minnesota Woman-Owned Small Business of the Year.
The business is owned by Donella Westphal, a visionary entrepreneur, community advocate, and champion of creativity and connection. She has transformed a beloved local bistro into a thriving hub of art, food, music, and philanthropy.
Westphal is among local SBA awardees who will be recognized during National Small Business Week, which will take place May 4-10, for their efforts to empower entrepreneurial success, create jobs, and drive economic growth in the last year. The SBA Minnesota District Office will hold local celebrations in the coming weeks.
In 2017, Westphal purchased Jules’ Bistro and led the business through a remarkable period of growth, more than doubling its size, increasing revenue, and expanding operations with a bakery, deli, catering company, and retail space. Westphal grew Jules’ Bistro with the support of SBA resources. She is a 2023 graduate of the SBA’s THRIVE program and leveraged three SBA-backed loans through the 7(a), Express
and SBA pandemic relief programs.
“We are proud to recognize Donella Westphal, owner of Jules’ Bistro, as Minnesota’s Woman-Owned Small Business of the Year,” said Brian McDonald, SBA Minnesota District Director. “Donella’s resilience, dedication, and unwavering commitment to her community exemplify the best of small business leadership. As a graduate of the SBA THRIVE Emerging Leaders Program, she has demonstrated not only a passion for growth, but also the strategic vision and grit it takes to build a business that makes a lasting impact. Her ability to overcome challenges, rebuild after adversity, and continuously give back to those around her is truly inspiring. Small businesses like Jules’ Bistro are the heart of our local economies, and Donella’s story is a powerful testament to the transformative force of entrepreneurship and community support.”
Her entrepreneurial journey is marked by resilience and fearless leadership. From weathering the COVID-19 pandemic – during which she completed major renovations, met all financial obligations, and retained her team – to securing key contracts with the St. Cloud Regional Airport and River’s Edge Convention Center, Westphal has positioned Jules’ Bistro as a model of sustainable, values-driven growth. While earning a reputation as one of Central Minnesota’s must-visit destinations, not just for its made-from-scratch meals and cozy, artistic atmosphere, but for its deep-rooted commitment to the local community.
From 2017 to 2023, Jules’ Bistro grew from 15 to 36 employees, and increased annual revenue from $227,000 to over $1.76 million – all while maintaining a culture centered on compassion, excellence, and inclusivity. “Why be ordinary when you can be original?” is Westphal’s life mantra – and it shows in every corner of her business and leadership. Her success proves that small businesses, when rooted in heart and community, can spark big change.
“Most people assume I bought Jules’ because I love to cook. I didn’t,” said Westphal, a North Dakota native who moved to St. Cloud in 1999. “I bought it because I saw the opportunity to build community. Food was just the tool.”
Beyond her business, Westphal is deeply involved in civic leadership. She serves on the boards of the St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown Alliance (Vice Chair).
“Donella is a powerhouse entrepreneur whose vision and leadership have not only shaped her business but also strengthened St. Cloud’s small business community. Her commitment to excellence, innovation, and giving back makes her the ideal choice for Woman-Owned Small Business Owner of the Year,” said NeTia Bauman, CEO & president of the Greater St. Cloud Development Corporation, who nominated Westphal for the award.
Details on National Small Business Week, the virtual summit, registrations and speakers are featured on www.sba.gov/NSBW and will be updated as additional information and activities are confirmed. Local events will be featured on www.sba.gov/events. On social media, follow the #SmallBusinessWeek hashtag for more about local awards and events.
About the U.S. Small Business Administration
The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov/mn.