Debby Portillo at the James Beard Foundation Financial Literacy Workshop

Last week, Debby Portillo Gonzalez participated in the 2026 Financial Literacy Workshop for Women hosted by the James Beard Foundation in New York City. For Debby, this wasn’t just a professional development opportunity; it was a deliberate investment in herself, made in service of the long-term health and sustainability of 2fifty.

About the Workshop

The two-day workshop, held on January 20 and 21, brought together women entrepreneurs from across the United States at different stages of their journeys. The program offered a candid, no-nonsense look at the financial realities of building and sustaining restaurant and hospitality businesses. Sessions covered everything from capital planning and realistic budgeting to debt versus equity, deal structure, and the operational discipline required to scale responsibly. The recurring message was clear: most founders underestimate how much capital they need, and lasting success depends on strong financial systems, clear metrics, and leaders who are willing to face the numbers head-on.

The James Beard Foundation created a space not only for learning, but for honesty: where challenges were discussed openly and experience was shared generously. While the information itself was invaluable, one of the most meaningful outcomes was the sense of connection in the room. Being surrounded by women navigating the same pressures, risks, and decisions turned the workshop into something deeper than education; it became a community.

Debby Portillo’s Role at 2fifty

As co-founder and CEO of 2fifty, Debby leads operations, financial strategy, and long-term growth planning. Her work often happens behind the scenes, but it is foundational to everything the business is able to do. Participating in this workshop was a conscious choice to strengthen those foundations, because investing in herself as a leader is, ultimately, an investment in the business, the team, and the craft.

Beyond the tools and insights gained, Debby left New York with something unexpected and lasting: a network of like-minded women who understand the realities of entrepreneurship and are now part of her professional circle: her people. At 2fifty, there is a deep belief that great food requires a strong, intentional business behind it. This experience reinforced that belief, reminding us that sustainable businesses are built not only through smart strategy but through community, shared knowledge, and leaders who are willing to grow alongside their work.

While participating in the workshop, Debby received the news that Chef Fernando Gonzalez, 2fifty’s Pitmaster, had been named a semifinalist for Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic 2026. The moment was made even more meaningful by the outpouring of support from her fellow WEL cohort alumnae, who celebrated the news alongside Sarah Courtney of Atoma with genuine joy, cheering as if the win were their own. It was a powerful reminder that while this work can feel solitary at times, leadership doesn’t have to be. The workshop closed with more than new tools and insights; it reinforced the value of community, shared wins, and the belief that investing in people, your team, and yourself is what allows a business to truly thrive.

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