The coffee industry, a global multi-billion-dollar business, has seen a surge in innovation and diversity in recent years, with Black-owned coffee brands leading the charge. These brands not only offer high-quality brews but also embody entrepreneurial spirit, cultural heritage, and a commitment to social change. From sourcing ethically grown beans to building community-focused businesses, these Black-owned coffee brands are making their mark in a highly competitive market. Here’s a look at four Black-owned coffee brands that are brewing up big business while reshaping the coffee culture.
1. BLK & Bold
Founded in 2018 by Pernell Cezar and Rod Johnson, BLK & Bold is a Black-owned coffee company that has quickly made a name for itself by prioritizing social impact alongside high-quality products. With a mission to create opportunities for underserved communities, the company pledges 5% of its profits to initiatives that support youth education and workforce development. BLK & Bold offers a range of products, including premium coffee blends, teas, and ready-to-drink coffee beverages, which are available nationwide and in major retailers like Target.
What sets BLK & Bold apart is its commitment to crafting flavorful coffee with ethically sourced beans from around the world. Their range of coffees includes signature blends like the “Breakfast Blend” and “The Big Easy,” showcasing both bold and smooth flavors. By emphasizing both community impact and high standards for quality, BLK & Bold has cultivated a loyal following, making it one of the most prominent Black-owned coffee brands in the market today.
2. Red Bay Coffee
Founded by Keba Konte in 2015, Red Bay Coffee is a Bay Area-based roaster and retailer that has quickly become a standout name in the coffee industry. With an emphasis on inclusivity and sustainability, Red Bay Coffee prioritizes fair trade and direct-trade sourcing practices while creating a welcoming, diverse space within the coffee industry. Konte, a former graphic designer and artist, brings a creative approach to the coffee business, merging artistry with sustainable sourcing to create distinctive blends.
Red Bay Coffee is not just about coffee—it’s about culture, connection, and representation. As one of the few Black-owned coffee roasters in the United States, it has also worked to provide opportunities for people of color in the coffee industry, focusing on training and development for aspiring coffee professionals. The brand’s signature blends like “African Pride” and “Bay Area Blend” showcase its commitment to high-quality, globally sourced beans while also celebrating the diverse cultures that shape the coffee industry.
3. Coffee Uplifts People (CUP)
Coffee Uplifts People (CUP) was founded by Tony Forte and Angela Yee, who saw an opportunity to create a business that could make a difference both socially and economically. CUP aims to promote equality, social justice, and economic empowerment through coffee. The company sources its beans from sustainable farms around the world and works to provide funding for educational and community development projects that benefit marginalized communities.
In addition to its focus on social change, CUP creates coffee blends that are designed to reflect its mission of positivity and community. Their unique offerings are made with high-quality, ethically sourced beans from all over the world. CUP is building a strong brand identity by not only focusing on coffee but also by using its platform to encourage people to engage in social justice initiatives. The brand’s commitment to uplifting communities makes it a standout in the world of Black-owned businesses in the coffee industry.
4. Bold & Gritty
Bold & Gritty is a Black-owned coffee company founded with a mission to offer rich, flavorful coffee while celebrating Black culture and entrepreneurship. The brand’s founders, passionate about quality coffee and community impact, emphasize sustainability and fair trade in their sourcing practices. Bold & Gritty’s blends are carefully crafted using ethically sourced beans from top coffee-growing regions, ensuring a smooth and bold flavor profile in every cup. The company offers a variety of coffee options, from light and medium roasts to rich, dark brews, catering to diverse coffee preferences.
What sets Bold & Gritty apart is its dedication to empowerment; the company actively supports Black entrepreneurs and initiatives that promote educational and economic growth in underserved communities. Their commitment to social responsibility extends beyond the coffee industry, with a portion of profits directed toward programs that uplift Black communities. Bold & Gritty also seeks to change the narrative around Black ownership in the coffee sector, providing a platform for people of color to enter and thrive in the industry.
