It started with a cup of coffee
ICAN Coffee grew out of Hermosa Coffee Co., a mobile coffee business ICAN launched in 2017 as part of its Marketplace program. What began as a single cart became a multi-location operation. Here's how it happened.
A cart became a business, and the business became a place to build real skills: customer service, cash handling, food safety, and the craft of making a good drink. For many, that experience became a stepping stone. One early barista earned certifications through the program and went on to be hired by a local coffee shop.
Over the years the cart grew into a full mobile operation, serving cold brew, kombucha, espresso, and lattes across the South Bay. In 2024, students from Da Vinci Schools helped design and build a purpose built ICAN Coffee Trailer, and by 2025 it had debuted at ICAN's Garden Party and earned City of Torrance approval to serve at the library.
Our connection to ICAN
ICAN Coffee is one of several businesses in ICAN's Marketplace, alongside the Photo Booth and Creative Studio. ICAN, the California Abilities Network, is a South Bay nonprofit that helps adults build skills, find meaningful work, and take part fully in their community. The coffee comes first, and the opportunity it creates is the mission behind it.
