In the months leading up to the creation of Backbone Coffee Company, I had been thinking about how to teach my children the value of generational wealth and entrepreneurship. I believed the only way to pass this knowledge on was by starting a business. But after going through the process of starting—and closing—several small businesses, none of which were profitable, I realized something important. I needed an idea that was both original and valuable to the community.

While coffee itself may not be the most “valuable” thing in the world, recognizing and respecting the individuals who dig ditches and do the hard work every day is. For over 20 years, I worked on the decks of commercial fishing boats, chipping and painting freighters, and learning to be a good officer in the Maritime industry. Like many others, I never thought of my work as a sacrifice—it was just what needed to be done.

But in this age of social media, I started to notice that the people who are truly building this country weren’t getting the recognition they deserved. And whether or not you get recognition from a coffee company, you’re still going to wake up early and work your ass off because that’s what your family needs from you. That’s why we want to commend you even more.

Our mission is to bring you high-quality coffee at an affordable price, while showing the respect and recognition you deserve.