The Business

The Challenge / The Opportunity

The Population With Disabilities (PWD) in the U.S. is largely underserved. About 82 % are unemployed.

A Solution to Create Value

Open a new coffee shop with an innovative community focus to employ PWD and provide community-based services- locally.
Grow from within and existing community base, friends, and relatives that have an “affinity” to support the PWD market segment.

It’s Already Happening!¹

In January 2016, Bitty and Beaus’ (B &B), a Wilmington-based coffee shop, was established to serve a PWD. They started operations in a 500 sf facility. In less than a year they expanded to a 5,000 sf facility. The founders stated on their website on May 24, 2016: “on track to generate $500,000 in sales this year.” They employ over 40 individuals.
Earlier this year, B &B announced expansion plans to open a second store in Charleston, SC.
B & B operates under a non-profit business model

Gabi’s Grounds Can Also Deliver!

Mary Angelini, the founder, is committed to serving this “niche market”.
Mary has a 10-year experience in serving a faith-based organization: Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic (OLL) Church, as well as the OLL school. A potential customer base of 2,000 families.
Additionally, Mary has been involved with local PWD communities in Raleigh for many years.
Moreover, her daughter, Gabrielle (Gabi) Angelini, is challenged by IDD and is eager to participate and support this initiative.
Both are particularly interested in focusing on this opportunity to engage the PWD community and the OLL communities to position a coffee shop to “grow from within.”

The Business Model

Position first coffee shop in a 1,000 sf facility with minimal staff.
Staff the store with a combination of full-time employees and a volunteer/ internship model.
A localized strategy “to grow within the community.” A “niche” market.
Engage existing community relationships in promotional activities and community-based events. Secure support from local suppliers and small business.
Replicate model with an additional store in NC. Then, plan and launch a franchise strategy.

What Are Our Sales Projections?

1st Year Comparative Sales vs Key Competitor: Bitty and Beau’s¹
2016: $500,000. (Website statement, May, 24 2016)
2018: $120,720. (Gabi’s Grounds Projections, 1st FY)