A new cafe has opened in Rhymney after a grant from Caerphilly County Borough Council and Tata Steel subsidiary UK Steel Enterprise.
Victoria House Cafe was set up through a business start-up programme for first-time business owners across the county.
Cafe owner Lisa Price received £500 from the scheme, allowing her to setup her own business.
The cafe, which used to be a dental practice, achieved a five star hygiene rating a few weeks after opening.
Ms Price said: “We launched a short time ago and we already have a lot of regulars coming to eat in and get takeaways.
“The menu for the cafe is currently being adapted to suit the needs of the customers, and Lisa is already planning for expansion.
“I am looking to have tables and chairs outside and develop an extra eating area.”
In three years, Lisa hopes to have a team of three working at Victoria House Café.
Martin Palmer of UK Steel Enterprise said: “It is good to see that Lisa has turned her ideas into reality with the launch of the new business. She clearly has excellent interpersonal skills that will serve her well.”
Cllr Sean Morgan, Caerphilly County Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Economy, said: “I must congratulate Lisa on the success so far with the Victoria House Cafe.
“This cafe is a brilliant example of how this funding can help new local businesses grow and I look forward to seeing this business progress further.”