Donation Based Business Model at Credo Coffee

I never thought I’d see a food based business like a coffee shop function completely on donations, but shortly after arriving in Orlando Florida I finally experienced one. I’m elated with the success of Downtown Credo Coffee shop in Orlando. When you order your drink, if you are not taking it “to-go” they will bring the drink to wherever you are seated. When you pay, they tell you they are accepting donations of whatever you feel is fair. They do have some suggested prices which are on the very conservative site and lower than most commercial businesses like Starbucks. You can donate via cash, credit card or donate via their website online. In addition to various coffee type drinks, they also have some pastries available daily (breads, muffins, etc).

What does Credo choose to do with their donations? As you might expect, they pay their overhead of utilities, rent, and employee wages and the remaining money goes to help the local impoverished communities. A volunteer committee meets on a regular basis to discuss how to use funds. It is a fabulous concept that makes me applaud this business and its efforts to improve both the lives of customers but also those in need.

I think it is absolutely wonderful what is being done by Credo (and its partners) and would hope other businesses might consider operating under a similar type system. It makes me feel all warm inside to picture a world where the majority of businesses could operate under a donation based system!