SBA recognizes Kenosha coffee roaster and business center

East View Coffee Co. and the Kenosha branch of the Wisconsin Women’s Business Initiative Corporation have been honored by the Wisconsin Small Business Administration for their outstanding contributions to the local business community.

East View Coffee Co., owned by Jenny Ulbricht, was named the Emerging Small Business of the Year, while the Kenosha branch of WWBIC was recognized as the Wisconsin Women’s Business Center of the Year. Ulbricht, who started the business as a hobby roasting coffee beans, has built a successful business that reflects her values, including paying workers a livable wage and sourcing coffee beans from women-owned farms.

The recognition from the SBA is a validation of East View’s unique approach to coffee roasting and shop management. Ulbricht expressed gratitude for the support received from WWBIC, which provided a loan that made the new Downtown location possible.

WWBIC, an economic development organization focused on supporting small businesses, especially those owned by women, people of color, veterans, and others facing barriers to entrepreneurship, has been instrumental in helping entrepreneurs like Ulbricht succeed. WWBIC’s Kenosha office serves over 1,000 entrepreneurs and businesses annually, providing access to capital, technical assistance, and mentorship.

The awards received by East View Coffee Co. and WWBIC are a testament to their dedication to fostering local businesses and empowering entrepreneurs. The honorees will be recognized at an upcoming luncheon in Milwaukee as part of National Small Business Week celebrations.