In 2017, Jody Brown set forth on a true entrepreneurial journey. Since then, both Jody and her business, The Atom Bistro and Coffee Bar, have enjoyed incredible growth and an entire rural community has been uplifted by her tireless efforts. While Jody’s business was originally launched as a platform to sell her professional photography, the model shifted dramatically when Jody incorporated a coffee bar in the gallery. From there, Jody and her family have combined their will and determination with research, education and strategic planning to dramatically grow the business. In June 2024, The Atom moved from an aging and tired facility to becoming Glide’s most modern, inviting and sophisticated restaurant.

After several years in a rented storefront with limited parking and awkward street access, Jody saw great potential for The Atom. The business was poised for tremendous growth given its track record of huge community support, a loyal staff, and a 4.9/5 rating on Google Business sustained over six years. However, future growth would require a larger and more accessible facility for which there were none available in this rural community – one that serves as the gateway to the Umpqua National Forest and Crater Lake National Park.

In mid-2023, with property purchased in a prime location, blueprints in hand, and great purpose, financing for a new building was made possible following months of collaboration between numerous local traditional and non-traditional lending agencies. Jody, her family and several community members spent countless hours investing “sweat equity” into the project.

In June 2024, The Atom celebrated the opening of their significantly larger iconic facility that is easily accessible to locals and tourists alike. The property features double the seating capacity of the original facility, offers plentiful parking, a much-needed drive-thru window, and a covered, open-air event space. The interior is modern, yet warm and inviting with its giant open-hearth fireplace to keep guests feeling cozy during visits. The Atom features a huge and diverse menu including the greater area’s largest vegan and gluten-free menu filled with original recipes made in house. Wines, ciders and local craft beers are available while a gift shop featuring local merchandise, branded items, original artwork, edible gifts and more, all provide additional revenue streams for the business. The Atom also has plans to develop part of their property as the community’s only green space for hosting community gatherings and events.

From the very beginning of business ownership, Jody utilized the Umpqua Small Business Development Center as a resource for education and support. Jody participated in three levels of the SBDC’s 9-month Small Business Management program. She was tireless in her efforts to learn while gaining a hands-on understanding of every aspect of business ownership and management. Today, an entire rural community along with countless travelers will reap the benefits of Jody’s vision, dedication and hard work.