The story of Noble Brews began with a shared vision between Daniela and Kevin, who both had a profound appreciation for the history, ritual, and complexity of finely grown, roasted, and brewed coffee. Hailing from diverse cultures—Daniela from Toronto by way of Romania, and Kevin from the Detroit Metro area—they inexplicably complement each other perfectly. The foundation for their business concept began in Oregon, where, as newlyweds, they were exposed to a variety of local coffee roasters and small specialty coffee shops. Their journey into the world of coffee started with a simple idea: to create exceptional drinks that would celebrate the high art of brewed beverages while promoting sustainability.

With this vision in mind, Daniela and Kevin embarked on a quest to develop a unique range of craft coffees. They immersed themselves in research, studying brewing techniques, flavor profiles, their preferred coffee bean (Brazilian Peaberry), and the intricacies of the local industry. Their dedication toward offering a superior product led Daniela to attending the Texas Coffee School, where aspiring baristas, coffee shop owners, and coffee enthusiasts are taught essential skills in brewing, espresso preparation, coffee business management, and customer experience to succeed in the specialty coffee industry. This passion, which has become a hallmark of Noble Brews, led them to sourcing their beans from a local roaster, Grumpy Goat Coffee Company. They believe that supporting their local industry not only enhances the quality of their products but also strengthens the community.

Don’t bother asking Google Maps or GPS to locate a street address, Noble Brews is mobile by design, existing entirely within a customized truck rather than a fixed, brick-and-mortar location. Noble Brews operates out of a distinctive 1998 Daihatsu HiJet Special Edition truck, a right-hand drive vehicle chosen for its practicality in the mobile coffee business. The compact size and agility of the Daihatsu allow for superior navigation of our bustling streets and tight event spaces, making it an ideal vehicle for their unique business model. By operating from a vehicle rather than a static location, Noble Brews can bring their craft coffees directly to a diverse array of community events, local festivals, art galleries, weddings, and even Farmer Mike’s, effectively reaching a broader audience. This mobility not only enhances their ability to serve customers in various locations but also aligns with their vision of creating a dynamic and interactive brewing experience that invites people to enjoy their offerings wherever they may be.

Daniela and Kevin searched extensively for an automatic model with air conditioning—a rare combination in Florida due to import restrictions on vehicles over 25 years old. After months of searching, they found this specific Daihatsu, which not only meets their operational requirements but also embodies their brand’s spirit of mobility and accessibility. The investment in the truck, along with their high-quality espresso machine, grinder, and battery system, totaled around $45,000, a reflection of their commitment to providing an exceptional coffee experience on the go. With a 9,000kWh battery and inverter system, there is no noisy or smokey generator to interfere with the taste or conversational experience. In short order they will reeducate SWFL on what constitutes a magnificent cup of coffee. Even the most inexperienced coffee drinker will instantly recognize the reason behind the historic tradition, cultural longevity, and worldwide popularity of this drink after a single cup from Noble Brews. This isn’t the fast-food equivalent beverage that has numbed the American palate, this is something special.

As they laid the groundwork for Noble Brews, Daniela and Kevin recognized the importance of seeking guidance and support to navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship. It was equal parts happenstance and serendipity that they encountered the Florida SBDC at FGCU. What began as a meeting with a Realtor, turned into a recommendation to consult with the SBDC.

Business Consultant, Elizabeth Goldbach of the SBDC, helped them brainstorm ideas, work through the legalities of opening a business, offered workshops, mentorship, and access to business planning resources, equipping them with the knowledge necessary to refine their concept and build a solid foundation for their brand. She offered expert guidance into what they termed an overwhelming and discouraging process.

With the SBDC’s support, Daniela and Kevin were able to develop a comprehensive business plan that outlined their vision, mission, and operational strategies. They learned about financial management, marketing techniques, and the intricacies of compliance with local regulations and permitting. This guidance was instrumental in helping them establish a strong business framework. With each challenge they faced, from navigating regulatory requirements to managing the financial aspects of running a business, they turned to the SBDC for guidance. The mentorship they received from Elizabeth helped them develop strategies to overcome obstacles and bureaucratic labyrinths, and most importantly, she gave them confidence in their vision and the realization that this was a venture they could actualize and achieve. Through determination and hard work, they emerged stronger.

As Noble Brews gains traction, it’s evident that the company was never just about beverages—it’s about building and enriching a community. Daniela and Kevin understand that creating a welcoming space where people can gather, share stories, and celebrate life is equally important as producing high-quality, specialty coffee. They ultimately desire to transform their brewery into a hub for social interaction, by catering to various events that celebrate diverse interests. From attending live music performances to art shows featuring local artists, Noble Brews will surely become a cultural cornerstone in the community.

Noble Brews is a testament to the power of passion, collaboration, and dedication. Daniela and Kevin now call SWFL home and they are injecting a small and wonderful piece of the Pacific Northwest coffee culture into our community. This is not merely another coffee shop. The expertise is apparent, this is important to them beyond a business, and the differences are real; you can literally taste it. Their commitment to quality and community involvement has not only elevated their brand but also enriched our region.

As they continue their journey, Daniela and Kevin remain grateful for the support of the SBDC and the city that has embraced their vision. It gave them the confidence to go forward on the right foot, armed with the proper business tools to craft their dream into reality with the same panache as their outstanding coffees. With every sip of Noble Brews, patrons are not just enjoying a damn fine cup of coffee; they are participating in an ongoing story—a story of resilience, creativity, and the enduring diversity of our growing community. The Florida SBDC at FGCU is humbled and honored to have contributed to the success of such an innovative and quality-centered business. We thank Kevin and Daniela for allowing us to be a part of their amazing journey.