The Cup of Joy Café is in a historic building in Downtown Cape Vincent. Owner and operator North Country native Amanda Derouchie was ready to become an entrepreneur when the opportunity presented itself to buy the shop overlooking the St. Lawrence. Amanda had substantial savings and a solid credit score, but because of the state of the business she wanted to buy, finding a commercial loan was challenging. The North Country Alliance saw the potential for this business and filled the financing gap.
Now nearing her fourth season, Amanda has successfully built and grown the company. Cup of Joy has partnered with North Country coffee roasters Gato Diablo and offers on-site roasted bird-friendly coffee beverages, fresh fruit smoothies, and a lot more including full lunch and breakfast menus. During the pandemic The Cup of Joy Café remained open by offering to-go and outdoor seating and delivery.
“It was a lot of extra work, but it paid off in the end.” Amanda is grateful of the North Country Alliance assistance making her dream become a reality.