Meet EO Member
Michelle Cairo, Founder of Olympia Provisions
At Olympia Provisions, we create joy through food by crafting the nation’s most celebrated charcuterie and operating five unique restaurants that bring the rich traditions of Europe to life. With a focus on authenticity, sustainability, and exceptional flavor, we deliver more than just meals—we create unforgettable moments. Using pasture-raised ingredients and a commitment to unparalleled quality, we redefine the meat industry with integrity and innovation, ensuring every bite connects people and enriches lives.
>What makes your business unique?
As the only meat company in America working to transform the industry, we partner directly with farmers to improve their land through proper rotational practices. Our mission is to prove that a responsible restaurant and meat company can enhance the environment by prioritizing ethical sourcing.
>What are you looking forward to in the next six months?
Last year was rough! We lost a lot of Whole Foods accounts on the East Coast and we had to right-size. Now we have a much leaner team—so figuring out how to operate in this new team while getting to launch a nationwide pâté program for Whole Foods! It feels like an exciting time. We are also working with some vision-aligned companies (Maui Nui and Wild Ideas) who are working at restoring land to develop some new products for them.
>What's a critical mistake you made that was a major learning moment?
Depending too much on one customer. I always said I would not let any one customer become more than 10% and it's a hard battle. So, when I lost Whole Foods East Coast, it was a big chunk and we had to lay off people. That sucked.
>How do you unwind at the end of a long day?
I love coming home and cooking with Brian (my husband). Putting some music on and making really delicious food!
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Michelle joined EO Portland in 2017. Interested in joining a community of business founders? This could be your year! Learn more.