Fast Company: Ramone Crowe, Jr. of The Java Exchange Cafe

TechTown hopes to create 400 new economy start-ups at its in campus within the next couple years, and someone is going to have serve all of those laptop wielding entrepreneurs coffee. That person is Ramone Crowe, Jr.

The 40-year-old Crowe owns The Java Exchange Cafe in the middle of TechTown’s campus in New Center. He has been serving lattes and mochas to Detroit’s aspiring entrepreneur class for a few years now. The Central Michigan University graduate and U.S. Navy veteran employs six people at the coffee shop and plans to hire more soon. Before The Java Exchange Cafe, Crowe owned or co-owned t-shirt and electrical businesses, and owned/managed rental property.

Describe your business in two sentences or less?
To serve the greater Detroit area as the premier coffee house that provides high-quality food and beverage products, and services in a relaxed community-oriented environment. And be the premier meeting space for mobile professionals.

Why did you decide to set up shop in Detroit?
I felt the Detroit market was being under served as it related to quality coffee shops and venues to host inexpensive business meetings. Every time I would schedule a meeting in Detroit, my most difficult decision would be where do we meet without coming out of our pockets for a lot of money -- or just go to the library. I wanted to create a venue that would put these questions to bed, and provide an environment and customer service that Metro Detroiters would appreciate and be proud of.

What are some of the advantages to doing business here?
I feel there is a real sense of community support, and our customers truly appreciate us. Also, being in the middle of all of the massive growth in New Center, Midtown and Techtown has proven to be a great opportunity.

What do you see in Detroit that other people who live outside the city don't?
Great opportunities!

What advice would you give to someone who was thinking about opening a business in the Motor City?
Do your homework, really do your homework some more. Understand your market better than your competition. Get involved in the community and give something back! Make it a better place.

If you could change one thing about Detroit, what would it be?
I would see more citizens take control of turning Detroit into the world class city it should be, starting with education and physical responsibility.

Source: Ramone Crowe, Jr., owner of The Java Exchanged Cafe
Writer: Jon Zemke