BREWING SUCCESS IN ETHIOPIA'S COFFEE INDUSTRY

Ethiopia, often hailed as the birthplace of coffee, boasts a rich tradition and a diverse array of coffee varieties loved worldwide. This deep-rooted heritage sets the perfect stage for entrepreneurial innovation, and Eyob Abera is leading the charge with his venture, Coffee Terminal.?

A visionary in the making

Eyob Abera, the Founder of Coffee Terminal, is not just passionate about coffee; he's committed to revolutionising the coffee industry in Ethiopia. As an alumnus of the BIC ETHIOPIA Catalyzer Programme, Eyob's journey is a powerful testament to the importance of ambition, planning, and persistence. From meticulously crafting business strategies to expanding to their fifth branch, Coffee Terminal's growth is nothing short of inspiring.?

Commitment to quality and sustainability?

Coffee Terminal is a mission-driven enterprise with three clear targets: traceable coffee, fair trade, and increased visibility. Eyob's dedication to quality is evident in every cup served at Coffee Terminal. The company's commitment to creating a transparent supply chain ensures that every bean's journey can be traced back to the farmer, promoting both quality assurance and fair-trade practices that benefit local farmers and their communities.?

The Catalyzer Programme: A launchpad for success?

Eyob attributes much of his business's success to the BIC ETHIOPIA Catalyzer Programme. "The experience we gained, the skills we developed, and the social capital we built were invaluable," says Eyob. The programme provided him with the tools to refine his business strategies, strengthen financial planning, and connect with other visionary entrepreneurs. This support has been crucial in overcoming practical challenges and filling skill gaps that Eyob and his team faced initially.?

Overcoming challenges with strategic growth

Every entrepreneurial journey comes with its share of challenges, and Eyob's was no different. However, the Catalyzer Programme equipped him with the necessary skills and resources to navigate these hurdles. From redefining business plans to securing discounted loans and grants, Eyob has successfully turned potential obstacles into stepping stones.?

Coffee Terminal is to receive a grant and a loan through the Catalyzer Programme, which Eyob describes as a "big opportunity" to bring ambitious plans from paper to reality. With this financial boost, Coffee Terminal is poised to expand to 12 branches, further solidifying its presence in Addis Ababa and beyond.?

A message to aspiring entrepreneurs?

For those dreaming of launching their ventures, Eyob's story serves as a powerful reminder: believe in your vision, stay persistent, and always aim for sustainable growth. Eyob's advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is clear: "Every entrepreneur needs to have the chance to join a catalyzing programme like this. It provides not just financial support but the skills, knowledge, and network that are crucial for turning ideas into reality."?

As Coffee Terminal continues its expansion, Eyob's ambitious future is a beacon of what's possible in Ethiopia's coffee industry. His commitment to sustainability, quality, and fair trade is setting new standards and creating a lasting impact that reaches far beyond the coffee cup.?

For Eyob, the journey is just beginning, and with each new branch, Coffee Terminal is brewing not just coffee but a future filled with possibilities.?