Crafted Coffee

Crafted Coffee, nestled in Historical Downtown Covington, stands as a testament to the vision and determination of its owner, Sarah Mandl. Since its inception on April 4, 2022, Crafted Coffee has become a community hub, offering a diverse menu of espresso-based drinks, handcrafted teas, and a delightful assortment of sandwiches and salads. As a women-owned business contributing to rural development, Crafted Coffee has quickly become a cornerstone of Covington’s culinary landscape.

Sarah Mandl’s journey with Crafted Coffee took a significant step when she approached the Tennessee Small Business Development Center at Dyersburg State Community College (TSBDC at Dyersburg) for assistance. Sarah was in the process of securing funding for the purchase and renovation of the coffee shop’s location when she recognized the need for expert guidance in business planning, obtaining commercial credit, and other startup assistance.

Under the mentorship of lead consultant Van Wylie, the TSBDC took proactive steps to ensure Crafted Coffee’s success. Sarah underwent training in business management, and with the aid of LivePlan, a comprehensive credit quality business plan was developed. This plan served as a vital tool in seeking credit for the purchase and renovations of the facilities. Additionally, the TSBDC provided valuable assistance in preparing financial projections essential for obtaining credit.

The outcome was nothing short of remarkable for Crafted Coffee. Sarah successfully secured commercial loans totaling $380,000, complemented by Equity Cash, resulting in a total economic impact of $444,000. This financial support paved the way for Crafted Coffee to open its doors on April 4, 2022, creating eight jobs in the process.

 Looking ahead, Crafted Coffee envisions a future marked by continued growth in sales, an expanded menu offering, and further renovations of its facilities. Sarah Mandl is optimistic about the path ahead, stating that “the TSBDC was a valuable partner in the creation of my business. I look forward to having the TSBDC as a partner as we continue to expand and grow our business.”

Crafted Coffee’s story exemplifies the transformative impact that strategic collaboration with the TSBDC can have on a business, especially in rural areas. As Crafted Coffee continues to brew success and build community connections, the TSBDC remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting Sarah and her vision for a thriving and expanding business.