The Art of Mila Coffee

From Immigrant Dreams to Community Coffee Hub: The Inspiring Journey of Mila Coffee

In the latest episode of "Better Futures," we dive into the inspiring journey of Mila Coffee, a community-focused coffee shop founded by an immigrant with big dreams. The story begins with the founder arriving in the U.S. in 2009, driven by the desire to work hard and create a better life. Despite the challenges of being undocumented, he launched Mila Coffee in 2016, driven by a passion for crafting quality espresso and building real connections within the San Antonio community.

San Antonio is evolving rapidly, and the founder believes the city will undergo significant positive changes over the next 20 years. Starting a business comes with uncertainty, but with the support of family and the community, it's a risk worth taking. The founder emphasizes the importance of having heart in the process and encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams, despite the fear and obstacles.

In the early days, the founder faced numerous challenges, including a lack of legal status, which made obtaining necessary licenses difficult. However, with determination and a little help from his mother, he pushed forward. The conversation highlights the need for better opportunities and grants for young entrepreneurs, mentioning organizations like Launch SA and Geekdom that support local businesses.

Interestingly, the founder has bootstrapped his entire business without outside investors, relying solely on his family's support. He prefers to maintain control over his decisions and is cautious about bringing in external opinions that might conflict with his vision.

The name "Mila Coffee" holds a special significance, inspired by the founder's daughter, Mila. The name not only reflects his personal connection but also resonates with the community, embodying the spirit of a mom-and-pop shop.

Mila Coffee stands as a testament to resilience, community support, and the pursuit of dreams, encapsulating the essence of what it means to build a better future.