2016 Audrey Finocchiaro and Sam Lancaster bravely launched their brainchild, The Nitro Bar, using only a homemade cart. Serving quality coffee daily, they nevertheless made less than $100 daily. However, their love for high-grade java kept them grounded and hopeful.
With their hearts set on selling nitrogen-infused cold brew coffee, they faced substantial hurdles. Funding was inconsistent and scarce, impeding their visions for growth. Moreover, their dual roles as business partners and a couple made things extra complicated. But their resolve never wavered.
These difficulties amplified their tenacity. They continued serving their unique brew at local Rhode Island events and farmers’ markets, and their persistent efforts led to a growing base of loyal customers.
Fortune began to smile at them when they chanced upon Brown University in the fall.
Nitro Bar’s ambitious growth from modest beginnings
Their stock sold out in no time, yielding a whopping $400. This success urged them to maintain a steady campus presence and collaborate with nearby restaurants.
From humble beginnings to noteworthy success, The Nitro Bar has made an impressive stride in the coffee industry. In just a year, they raked in $4.5 million. Furthermore, they now oversee three coffee shops, a coffee trailer, and a team 50, serving coffee lovers in more than 50 locations across Rhode Island and Massachusetts.
The Nitro Bar’s distinctive brew and relentless dedication to quality have won the hearts of locals and tourists alike. They have invested in sustainable practices, ethical sourcing, and compostable cups to future-proof their business.
One standout moment from their journey came in Spring 2017 at a farmers’ market. Venture capital investors lent them $100,000 at 10% interest. This massive investment kickstarted their business, enabling them to increase production and expand their customer circle.
The loan amplified their business operations and reflected validation from external sources. With this, their sales increased exponentially, proving their venture’s worth and potential. Their story is a shining example of the significant possibilities inherent in small-scale investments, inspiring aspiring entrepreneurs to think big and dream bigger.
