Lansing coffee shop earns Michigan grant, launching two locations
Strange Matter Coffee is working on opening locations in Old Town and downtown Lansing
LANSING, Mich. – There’s something extra special about a locally-owned coffee shop. Local coffee spots just have a local flavor that you won’t find anywhere else.
A popular Michigan coffeehouse, Strange Matter Coffee in Lansing, is gearing up for a big 2022. The shop was forced to shut down in March 2020, just as the pandemic was taking hold. But, all is not lost.
Now, Strange Matter has announced via Instagram that they have been awarded a $25k grant as part of the Match on Main program from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. They’re one of just 41 small businesses from Michigan to receive the grant, so it’s a big honor.
“These funds will be used to create a whole new Strange Matter experience,” the shop announced in the post. To move ahead with the new venture, they’ll combine the original downtown Lansing location with the two neighboring vacant spaces, which formerly housed Subway and Fudge & Frosting.
“Our plans include an expanded bakery, a small food menu including simple but delicious breakfast and lunch items, and small plates in the evening hours,” Strange Matter said on Instagram. They’re also getting into the beer game. “We intend to acquire a Tavern License, allowing us to stay open until 10 pm serving beer, wine, and hard cider, in addition to our regular coffee menu,” they said.
In addition, Strange Matter is opening a location in Old Town on the corner of Cesar E. Chavez Ave and Cedar Street, inside the Temple Building. “We’ve been working with the Temple Building folks on this spot since the Fall of 2019 and we are so pumped it’s nearing a stage where we can announce it!” they said on Instagram. That location will offer alcohol, too.
They hope to open their doors by late Summer 2022 at both locations but aren’t making any promises. Keep up with Strange Matter Coffee via their official Instagram page.
