Forward Community Investments (FCI) joined the celebration of the soft opening of Baked Lab’s new retail storefront at 2044 Atwood Avenue on Madison’s East Side, recognizing the milestone for the local bakery and community space. They will celebrate their official grand opening on Saturday, February 21st from 11:00am-3:00pm.
Founded by pastry chef Shawn Bolduc, Baked Lab began in 2019 as an appointment-only dessert studio known for its inventive takes on classic sweets, custom wedding cakes, and baking classes. The move to a permanent storefront marks a major growth step for the business, which has built a strong reputation for creative, community-focused baking.
This project was supported in part by financing through FCI’s Small Business Loan Program. This loan was also supported by the Dane County Diverse Business Guaranty Fund, a catalytic partnership between FCI, Wisconsin Philanthropy Network, WEDC, and several Dane County based philanthropic funders that aims to expand access to capital for diverse and growth-stage businesses. This loan is an embodiment of FCI’s commitment to providing creative financing solutions to projects that strengthen local entrepreneurship and expand economic opportunity in Wisconsin neighborhoods.
At the soft opening event, Baked Lab welcomed supporters, neighbors, and media for an early look at the space, which will offer a blend of pastries, snacks, coffee, and community gatherings alongside elegant plated desserts in the evenings. Founder Shawn Bolduc shared his excitement about finally bringing his vision to life after years of preparation, emphasizing the bakery’s role as a welcoming hub where people can connect over exceptional treats.
FCI’s presence at the event underlined the organization’s broader mission to foster vibrant local businesses that serve as neighborhood anchors and to provide tailored capital and support that helps entrepreneurs thrive.
