Innovation

Drawing from over 15 years in the hospitality industry, Cara Santino witnessed firsthand the exploitation and lack of inclusivity prevalent in the field. Determined to implement change, she envisioned a cooperative model where workers receive fair wages, benefits, and a voice in decision-making. Teaming up with Cooperative Development Specialist Elena Sicconi and other passionate collaborators, Little Lion Collective offers an alternative business model that prioritizes worker empowerment and ethical business practices. By doing so, the collective directly contributes to achieving UN Sustainable Development Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and UN Sustainable Development Goal 10 (Reduced Inequalities). 

This mission extends beyond operations, shaping the immersive experiences they create. Themed events, such as 80s/90s nostalgia nights and their upcoming Scholastic Book Fair gathering, merge music, food, and culture in an atmosphere that uplifts underrepresented voices. As Cara explains, “I wanted to try to think of a model that would really elevate the experiences of women, LGBTQ people, and people of color, and if they wanted a career in hospitality, offer really good careers that offer benefits and above-market wages.” 

Inspiration

Cara Santino’s inspiration for founding Little Lion Collective emerged from her extensive background in the hospitality industry and her personal experiences with its challenges. Having spent over 15 years working in food and beverage, Santino witnessed firsthand the exhausting schedules, lack of work-life balance, and exploitation that disproportionately affected marginalized groups. "I would have loved to work in the industry full-time as a career," Santino explained, "but there's no work-life balance generally... the hours are crazy... and the amount of sexual and verbal abuse, especially towards women, people of color, and LGBTQ people, is astronomical."

Determined to challenge these harmful industry norms, Santino envisioned a cooperative model that could offer fair wages, benefits, and meaningful career paths in hospitality. Drawing from her culinary arts education and understanding of inequities in the food system, she sought to create an empowering and sustainable workplace.

Ultimately, Little Lion Collective was born out of a desire to create something meaningful. “All different types of people come to our events, and they end up chatting because it’s based on a lot of shared interests. It seems like people are more comfortable being themselves, and I think when I was envisioning the type of place, that was what I wanted,” Cara shares.

Overall impact

The impact of Little Lion Collective has been both immediate and far-reaching, influencing the New Haven community and the broader hospitality industry. In the short term, their pop-up events have provided a welcoming and inclusive social space where people from diverse backgrounds feel safe and celebrated. By thoughtfully curating nostalgic themes, Little Lion Collective has created low-pressure environments where social connections flourish. Attendees frequently express appreciation for these spaces, where they feel comfortable being themselves and connecting with others. This sense of community has drawn people from outside the New Haven area, with some guests traveling from Hartford to attend multiple events.

Long term, Little Lion Collective’s cooperative model is driving systemic change in the hospitality industry. By prioritizing fair wages, benefits, and worker empowerment, they are setting a new standard for ethical labor practices in a field notorious for instability and exploitation. Employees have decision-making power, ensuring their voices shape the business and its growth. This sustainable model also emphasizes community partnerships, fostering connections with local businesses such as progressive bookstores and plant shops, further strengthening the local economy.

Evidence of their impact includes steadily growing attendance, positive feedback from attendees, and financial support through grants like the $10,000 Human Rights Foundation award. Additionally, the loyalty of returning guests and the demand for their pop-up experiences demonstrate the meaningful connections they’ve fostered. As they continue working toward opening a permanent vinyl bar and record store, Little Lion Collective’s influence promises to extend even further, providing lasting social and economic benefits to their community.

Business benefit

Little Lion Collective’s innovative cooperative model has had a significant positive impact on the business itself. By prioritizing fair wages, benefits, and worker empowerment, the collective has attracted a dedicated team of employees and volunteers who are deeply invested in the organization’s mission. The cooperative structure has also allowed Little Lion Collective to build strong partnerships with local businesses, increasing their presence in the New Haven and Hartford communities.

Because Little Lion Collective emphasizes accessible events and diverse cultural experiences, they have successfully tapped into a growing market of consumers seeking meaningful social connections. Their themed pop-up events, like their wine tastings, nostalgic events, and family-focused gatherings, have drawn loyal attendees, boosting revenue and visibility. The collective’s ability to tailor event pricing— often offering "pay what you can" models— has expanded their customer base without compromising financial stability. For example, their wine pairing event charged $50 per ticket, a higher price point that successfully attracted a new market while maintaining affordability at other events.

Social and environmental benefit

Little Lion Collective's commitment to social and environmental impact is woven into their core values and business practices. By actively fostering an inclusive community space, they create environments where marginalized groups feel seen and valued. Their themed events provide a safe, welcoming atmosphere where attendees connect over shared interests, reducing social isolation and promoting meaningful interactions. Through partnerships with local businesses owned by women, people of color, and LGBTQ individuals, Little Lion Collective amplifies underrepresented voices while contributing to the local economy.

“We love working with female DJs, female business owners, and business owners of color. We’re very thoughtful about it because we’ve been to so many places that just aren’t,” Cara notes, emphasizing their commitment to inclusivity.

In addition to their social impact, Little Lion Collective embraces sustainability through thoughtful sourcing and event design. By incorporating locally sourced ingredients into their food and beverage offerings, they reduce their carbon footprint while supporting small, community-based producers. Their use of thrifted and repurposed decor for events further minimizes waste and aligns with their commitment to eco-conscious practices. 

Interviews

Cara Santino, Founder

Elena Sicconi, Cooperative Developmental Specialist