Archived Meeting

Brewing Up a Sustainable Business

Main Speaker

Vermont Coffee Company Paul Ralston Paul Ralston founded Vermont Coffee Company in 2002, and this small, dynamic company continues to forge its own unique path. Vermont Coffee Company is Vermont’s ONLY 100% fair trade 100% certified organic coffee company, and with only 3 packaged coffee blends – and no fancy flavored coffees – they are building a base of dedicated and loyal customers. The company’s motto, “Coffee Roasted for Friends,” is more than a slogan, it’s a business plan. VCC puts social responsibility into its business model at the front end by paying the fair trade price for organic coffee beans, by roasting in an innovative low-emissions roaster, and by using recyclable packaging. Friend of the farmer, friend of the environment, friend of the customer – all adds up to an innovative and sustainable small business.

 

Guest Speaker

Vermont Center for Emerging Technologies VCET’s mission is to accelerate the development of Vermont-based innovations and bring together the resources necessary to launch viable, well-managed start-up companies. VCET offers selected early-stage businesses a menu of traditional incubator services, links to specialty laboratories and equipment, mentors, and service providers as well as capital resources.