On June 10, 2022, Mozz held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of their store. Mozz is a purveyor of fine Italian cheeses with a specialty in made-on-site mozzarella. Mozz is the life-long dream of owners, Christina and Luca Mignogna, but it look a gouda amount of support to make this dream a reality.

Paul Harden, the Greater Newport Regional Director for the RISBDC, first met with Christina back in May 2021 to discuss the business plan and other considerations related to opening a new business in Newport. When the discussion turned to financing, Christina explained they had been talking to a local bank and would proceed with them for the financing.

Within a couple of weeks, Christina contacted Paul and asked about options with other lenders. After taking the time to understand her financial needs, Paul scheduled a conference call with Buck Harris of CIC. From the start, Buck was able to understand their needs and see the potential of the high-traffic location. With support from private investors and capital from Christina and Luca, the loan was approved, and Newport’s newest cheese shop opened successfully.

Owners: Christina and Luca Mignogna

Mozz
181 Bellevue Ave.
Newport, RI 02840
mozzri.com