CUP Is Brewing More Than Coffee

In a neighborhood known for its culture, resilience, and creativity, Coffee Uplifts People, better known as CUP, has carved out a space that’s more than just a coffee shop. Located in the heart of Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn, CUP is a Black-owned, mission-driven café blending quality coffee with community impact. Founded in 2020 by Angela Yee, Tony Forte, and LaRon Batchelor, CUP exists on a simple but powerful belief: coffee should uplift everyone it touches.

CUP isn’t just about the caffeine kick; it’s about representation at every level of the supply chain. Their beans are responsibly sourced from countries like Ethiopia, Peru, Sumatra, and Mexico and roasted locally in Brooklyn. Their goal? A 100% POC supply chain “from crop to CUP,” making sure the people who grow the coffee are part of the story and the profit.

Inside their flagship shop on Gates Avenue, the vibe is warm, welcoming, and full of intention. It’s the kind of place where neighbors linger, ideas are exchanged, and local brands are celebrated. Their rotating “pop-uplifts” give Black and minority-owned businesses a platform, turning the café into a hub of both connection and opportunity.

Angela Yee, a longtime supporter of entrepreneurship and social justice, has used her platform to amplify the mission behind CUP. After undergoing training at Brooklyn Roasting Company, she developed a deeper appreciation for coffee's cultural roots, particularly its origins in Ethiopia, and recognized its potential to bring people together while supporting global communities.

From bold roasts like Honey Berry Mocha Java to smooth options like their Cocoa ESPresso, CUP offers variety and authenticity. Their products are not only available in-store but also online and at major retailers like Whole Foods, Fairway, and Stop & Shop, making it easier for consumers to support a purpose-driven business with every purchase.

In a city that runs on hustle, CUP is more than a caffeine stop; it’s a symbol of possibility. It’s a place where your morning coffee supports farmers overseas, highlights local entrepreneurs, and pours directly into community growth. For those looking to start their day with more than just energy, CUP offers something deeper: coffee with a conscience.