Fueling Ardsley's Revival with Peg’s Coffee

Ardsley, PA is a tight-knit community just outside of Philadelphia that is severely lacking small businesses to help improve the neighborhood. My location, 2617 Jenkintown Rd. at the Ardsley train station, has no other coffee shops within a mile radius. My intention is to open a coffee shop that becomes a community staple, and provides a welcoming and safe place for both residents and those who are visiting.

Ardsley has always been special to me as the home of my grandparents. In 2020 I had the opportunity to move in with my grandmother, Peg Herman, to her home of over 50 years on Monroe Ave, where she raised my mom and her siblings. I became part of a community for the first time in my life, and am now raising my own children here. My business will be named in her honor - Peg’s Coffee.

My business has an edge over competitors due to my motivation and drive to create something that not only serves my community, but brings a sense of revitalization to a neighborhood that has raised my family for generations. Peg's coffee will outperform its predecessors in this neighborhood due to my increased business hours, fresh and clean new branding, and community involvement.

With over 10 years in the restaurant industry, 5 managing a small market, and 4 studying mental health; my project will be a successful, dynamic business that has the capability of impacting the lives of Ardsley residents now and future. We will be doing fundraisers, outreach, classes, and workshops with members of the community. Local crafters will have an opportunity to sell their items at our location, and also have pop-up markets.

Peg's will make money by sourcing local, quality ingredients and transforming them into delicious food and drink. We will also sell snacks, coffee related accessories, and local crafts and art. Our target customers will be community members, train commuters, families, and teens. We will have extended hours Thursday through Saturday, where our customers can join us for games, music, and desserts.

To start my business I am asking for $15,000. I have secured the commercial lease with funds from my savings, but it is not enough. I will use funds to purchase an espresso machine, an oven, to update the building, and purchase furniture. Funds will also be used to obtain state licensure to serve food and beverages, obtain an insurance policy, and secure inventory.

Thank you for your time. Any donation helps, big or small. Advice, wisdom, suggestions, and conversation are always open. Thank you!