Dos Locals is a proudly woman-owned, tribally owned food truck created by a citizen of the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians, Maritza Fuerte Lopez and her husband Joel Lopez. Their story began with a vision born out of resilience, cultural pride, and the desire to build something meaningful for their family. After years of the husband traveling long distances for work, they wanted a life where they could spend more time together and create a business rooted in identity, tradition, and community connection. As they put it, “We were just two locals and a dream.”
Their roots run deep and stretch far beyond Northern Michigan. The husband trained in culinary school, developing a refined skill set rooted in passion and creativity. Meanwhile, the wife grew up in Chicago in a family steeped in food entrepreneurship—her father owns two meat markets and three restaurants, each one a reflection of culture, community, and generational hard work. These experiences shaped her understanding of what good food can do: bring people together, nourish community, and keep traditions alive. Dos Locals became their way of continuing that legacy.
But like many new entrepreneurs, they faced challenges accessing traditional financing. That’s when Northern Shores stepped in. More than a lender, Northern Shores offered low-interest, culturally supportive financing, provided by the Native American Agriculture Fund, paired with hands-on guidance, encouragement, and a streamlined process that made the dream of launching a food truck a reality. The owners often speak about how meaningful this support was, sharing how Northern Shores “showed so much love for the community and truly encouraged us to keep going.” That support not only financed equipment and truck costs but also gave them confidence during the stressful early stages of their business.
With their truck complete and their vision intact, Dos Locals launched into the community—and the response was immediate. Their food quickly became a favorite at tribal gatherings, festivals, and local events. Customers comment not only on the flavors and authenticity of their dishes but on the warmth and connection they bring to each interaction. Many have encouraged them to open a brick-and-mortar restaurant, and the couple now envisions a future where they can expand, create jobs, and grow the business into a lasting community asset.
For this family, Dos Locals represents far more than a business. It is a continuation of heritage, an expression of cultural pride, and a path toward economic independence. It is a legacy they are building for their children and a way to strengthen community connection through food. Northern Shores is honored to be part of their journey and proud to support a woman-led, culturally grounded business that reflects the strength and resilience of local entrepreneurship.
Dos Locals stands as a testament to what becomes possible when passion meets support, when tradition meets opportunity, and when two locals—and a dream—receive the community-driven backing they deserve.