Community Banking Month recognizes the essential role local banks play in driving economic growth, supporting small businesses and delivering personalized financial services that help entrepreneurs succeed. This April, we highlight an emerging Orlando favorite, JAM Hot Chicken, and reflect on how community banks can help transform a passion-driven idea into a growing local brand.
Founded by Orlando native Andrew Scala, JAM Hot Chicken was inspired by a lifelong love of food. Raised in a household where both parents were exceptional cooks, he developed an early appreciation for the craft of creating something simple and doing it well.
The idea of launching JAM Hot Chicken began in 2020 as the life-changing COVID-19 pandemic hit. After being furloughed, Andrew’s passion grew as he began cooking hot chicken alongside his brother for family and friends, deepening his love not only for the food itself but for the process of preparing and sharing it with others. What started as cooking for his closest circle soon evolved into casual curbside pickups promoted on Instagram. As demand increased, he planned and executed his first official pop-up in October 2020, drawing attention from a growing audience and laying the foundation for continued growth in the City Beautiful.
As the business gained momentum and its first brick-and-mortar location opened, expansion opportunities followed. While interest came from multiple markets, Andrew remained intentional about growth. As a hands-on owner, he understands that scaling requires more than demand; it requires the right timing and the right financial partner.
Nearly three and a half years into business, the opportunity to open a second location at Winter Garden’s Plant Street Market felt aligned. Familiar with the area and confident in the brand’s strength, he was ready to think strategically about expansion. A key part of that decision was partnering with the right bank.
Alongside the entire journey was Cogent Bank. Andrew was referred to Cogent by a trusted friend, and from the beginning, the relationship felt personal and approachable. Their familiarity with JAM Hot Chicken’s business model, combined with a concierge-style approach and deep understanding of small business realities, gave Andrew the confidence and peace of mind to navigate the complexities of expansion.
Community banks play a critical role in supporting entrepreneurs because they understand the communities they serve. Small businesses like JAM Hot Chicken contribute to Orlando’s identity, create jobs and strengthen the local economy. Having a financial partner invested in that success makes growth more sustainable.
Today, JAM Hot Chicken is not only a local favorite but a reflection of Orlando’s established food scene. As it expands, the foundation remains the same: authentic flavors, quality food and a strong local presence.
Community Banking Month serves as a reminder that behind many successful small businesses is a trusted community bank, like Cogent Bank, providing personalized financial services. When local banks and entrepreneurs grow together, they help build stronger businesses and inspire a stronger community.
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Disclaimer: The information contained herein is for informational/educational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed in this document may be those of the individuals and may not necessarily reflect those of Cogent Bancorp and its subsidiaries and affiliates, or the entities they may represent. Content contained herein may be used in connection with the advertising and/or marketing of products offered by Cogent Bank or Cogent Private Wealth. The material is not intended to provide or substitute for legal, tax, or financial advice or to indicate the availability or suitability of any Cogent Bank product or service. You should consult with a legal, financial, tax, or other appropriate professional(s) for your specific needs and/or objectives before making any decisions.
