Kimberly Teats-Garrison and Jordan Garrison love coffee and make it a point to visit unique coffee shops when traveling. When a long-time local restaurant closed, they saw the potential for something different in their small town. Rise Up is a coffee and ice cream shop that offers a wide variety of options for coffee and ice cream enthusiasts. As stated on their website, “This name is so fitting as it highlights the Garrisons' faith in Jesus while also giving a nod to starting the day with a little caffeine to get you going!”
Challenge: Kimberly first came to the Illinois SBDC at Sauk Valley Community College in August 2022. She sought assistance on how to begin.
How Illinois SBDC helped: During the first session, Business Advisor Pam Clodfelter met with Kimberly to provide her with the services we offer and to learn more about her business goals and aspirations. Pam had learned that our assistance was needed to determine the business structure and complete the appropriate registrations. In addition, Pam provided tips on interviewing potential employees and provided options for bookkeeping programs.
Result: Rise Up Coffee LLC was officially formed in August 2022, and after significant renovations, the shop was opened to customers in April 2023. As part of their commitment to the community, they have hired many locals to work in the shop. Kimberly shared these thoughts on her experience with the SBDC, “I’m so thankful to you for your guidance on the business aspect of things that I simply wasn’t familiar with in my own research. You helped clarify many topics for me and guided me toward further resources and success. The resources provided by you through the SBDC were priceless, and it’s such a service to be given at no cost. I have already pushed friends and acquaintances of mine to look to you for guidance in their prospective new businesses.”
Learn More: To learn more about Rise Up Coffee LLC, please visit their social media page on Facebook or their website at www.riseupcoffeellc.com or stop by the shop at 613 12th Street, Erie, IL.