CHILLICOTHE, OH – Nestled on the corner of Paint and Fourth Streets in Chillicothe, Ohio, sits a quaint little coffee shop that continues to be the focal point for socialization among area residents. Paper City Coffee offers a wide variety of coffees and lattes with a valuable mentoring program for local teens on the side.
Owners Lance & Mackenna Harper and Cade & Madisen Harper purchased the shop not only because of their love of coffee but also to remain active in their community. Fluor-BWXT (FBP) and the Joint Economic Development Initiative of Southern Ohio (JEDISO), as part of the groups’ commitment to the community, provided the owners with an economic development grant of $18,750 to help the owners continue their journey.
“This small business is thriving in the community,” said FBP President and CEO Greg Wilkett. “They not only provide an amazing menu, but they also offer local teens a place to connect with adult mentors, helping them discover their potential and become active in their community. We are happy to be a part of their growth.”
The Harpers shared that they plan to begin roasting their own coffee beans and extending their business beyond the small shop.
“With this grant, we will be able to purchase a roaster,” said Mackenna Harper, one of the owners. “Our plans are to provide fresh coffee beans and begin distributing to other businesses.”
In addition to the coffee shop, the owners also operate The Page, a craft cocktail bar that operates on select nights in the same location.
“We are excited to see the business grow and focus on what’s next,” said Madisen Harper, another owner. “We are even discussing a glass surround for the roasting room to allow customers to see the process.”
On May 4, the business will celebrate their first year with the Harper couples as owners.
“Chillicothe is fortunate that young entrepreneurs like the Harpers are investing in their hometown,” said Tammy Eallonardo, director of Greater Chillicothe and Ross County Development. “They are talented professionals who are choosing to give back to their community. All of Ross County benefits from their success.”
To learn more about JEDISO, please visit www.choosesouthernohio.com or call 740.286.2838. To learn more about Fluor-BWXT, please visit www.fbportsmouth.com or call 740.987.2432.