Urban Grinds Coffee Co. began as a dream shared by Brittany and me, rooted in our desire to create a business that truly values its community. After years of working for employers who asked us to compromise our values, we decided to build something different—a place where authenticity, creativity, and love are at the heart of everything we do. In 2022, we launched Urban Grinds as a mobile coffee cart in Conroe, Texas, braving the Texas heat and local markets. Our hard work paid off, and by 2024, we had our first semi-permanent location as an indoor pop-up. For eight months, we grew, expanded, and finally reached a point where we could dedicate ourselves fully to Urban Grinds.

As a newly engaged LGBTQ couple, we were upfront about who we are, but eventually faced an ultimatum: hide our identities or leave. We chose to stand by our values and left the pop-up location, returning to the mobile market world. Soon after, we were offered a chance to sublease a fully equipped café space at 202 Main, where our business flourished. We hosted Conroe’s first public LGBTQ pride event, saw record-breaking sales, and began preparing to serve pastries and café food for the first time. But just as we were hitting our stride, the business we subleased from closed, leaving us searching for a new home once again.

Now, we have the opportunity to lease a new space just around the corner, but the upfront costs—security deposit, renovations, and equipment—are beyond our current means. Urban Grinds is more than just a coffee shop; it’s a safe space for marginalized people, a place where everyone is welcome, and a hub for creativity and connection. Our mission is to do all things in love, to support our community with fair wages, and to keep our offerings affordable despite rising costs. We’re asking for your help to secure this new location and continue building the inclusive, magical space that Conroe deserves. Thank you for believing in us and supporting local.