The applicant applied to the fund with the aspiration to open a Welsh themed bilingual coffee shop in the historic Aberdare Market, offering Welsh coffee, tea and other drinks along with food produced in Wales. The aim was to promote local and Welsh culture, the Welsh language and be a friendly place to meet.
We awarded them £6,455.04 to help with the business start up costs.
Despite a quiet opening period in January 2024, Helo Coffi is now going from strength to strength. Its compact size enables people to start or join in conversations with other customers and there is often a lively atmosphere. There are many new and returning customers. They source Welsh produce from other traders in Aberdare Market and are becoming an intrinsic member of the Aberdare Market Community.
“The funding from Pen y Cymoedd enabled me to convert an empty unit in Aberdare Market to a coffee shop and I was able to open Helo Coffi. My aim was to provide a friendly and inclusive space where people can come for food (locally sourced where possible) and conversation. Offering a bilingual Welsh/English customer service was also important to me. Helo Coffi is now a popular destination for both individuals and groups.” – Karin Mear, Helo Coffi