How I Built This with Guy Raz Raising Cane's: Todd Graves
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Apr 25, 2022 
Todd Graves, Founder and CEO of Raising Cane's, shares his journey from an aspiring restaurateur to leading a multi-billion dollar chicken finger empire. He discusses the struggles of securing funding, including braving two tough jobs to finance his dream. Todd emphasizes sticking to core values despite pressures to diversify the menu. He also reflects on the importance of quality ingredients and how inspiration from In-N-Out Burger shaped his vision. With over 600 locations, he reveals secrets behind their success and the iconic cane sauce recipe.
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Rejected Business Plan
- Todd Graves and Craig Silvey bought cheap suits and briefcases, trying to look professional for bank loan meetings.
- Their business plan for Raising Cane's, focused on chicken fingers, was rejected by every bank in Baton Rouge.
Focus on Core Product
- Todd Graves resisted adding menu items like salads, believing that focusing on exceptional chicken fingers was key.
- He felt that diversifying too early would complicate operations and dilute the brand's identity.
Extreme Fundraising
- To fund Raising Cane's, Todd Graves worked as a boilermaker in refineries after being rejected by banks.
- He then worked on an Alaskan fishing boat, enduring dangerous conditions to raise the necessary capital.