Not Just A Cup Of Coffee

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Matthew Berry, Founder of Ember Coffee Co., located in Big Lake, MN, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

Ember Coffee Co. is a specialty boutique air roaster. The beans in your hands have been ethically sourced and hand-selected from some of the finest coffee regions in the world. At first taste, you'll notice the difference. Our methods provide an enhanced flavor with very low acidity. Our passion is to roast the highest quality coffee to bring comfort to your mornings, joy to your social gatherings, and to make a difference in the lives of those who might fall between the cracks.

Ember Coffee Co. roasts coffee with a cause, using our profits to support organizations around the world that care for orphans, victims of human trafficking, and those marginalized by society. We ship to happy and compassionate customers across the United States.

Tell us about yourself

Ember Coffee was started with the idea that "Small is Significant." We wanted to create a safe space for our community and use proceeds from our roasting business to directly support organizations that serve those who are marginalized and exploited. Our passion for coffee and people is evident in our commitment to responsible sourcing, socially responsible production, and positive environmental impact—all while producing coffee that's truly exceptional. Our customers can see that we care about making a difference.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Our biggest accomplishment as small business owners has been surviving and thriving in the Big Lake community. Despite the numerous changes this year – finding new staff, ramping up our coffee roasting, and opening our coworking space – and the challenges that inevitably come with running a business, we were able to stay open and even find success thanks to the immense support of our local community. It's not easy being a business owner, but it's definitely made easier with such an incredible showing of solidarity from our friends, family, and fellow citizens. We are so thankful for their loyalty and support.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

One of the hardest things as a business owner is showing up and bringing your all every single day. That's grit and determination, and it's not easy – but it's also the key to success. It is an often invisible display of endurance that lets you stay in an uncomfortable place, work hard to improve upon a given interest, and push through even when progress is slow or non-existent. Success doesn't just happen overnight; it is a product of hard work, dedication, and a commitment to never give up.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

Starting, running, and growing a business takes plenty of passion, dedication, and hard work. Here are three inspiring business tips to help you on your journey:

Passion: Having loads of passion for what you do is essential when starting any new venture. Dedicating yourself to your mission will help keep you motivated and give you the energy to power through difficult times.
Mentors and Advisors: Surrounding yourself with experienced mentors and advisors can be invaluable when trying to navigate the world of business. They can provide insights, advice, and support that will be crucial in helping your business achieve success.
Never Give Up: As hard as it may seem at times, never give up on your dreams of success! It can take time for a business to reach its full potential, so having an unrelenting passion for pressing forward will stand you in good stead in the long run.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://embercoffee.co/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/embercoffeeco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/embercoffeeco/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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