The Build #3: Rolling Out, One Phase at a Time
Hey crew -
One of the core beliefs behind Participant is that it should grow with the community.
Since our permanent location won’t be move in ready until early next year, we’re launching Participant’s first phase with a coffee truck that will pop up around Bella Vista and at local events this summer.
This isn’t a side project or a soft launch. It’s a strategic first step in a phased rollout grounded in something I care deeply about: smart, intentional growth with real feedback at every stage.
We’re building with you, not just for you. The coffee truck gives us the space to test, listen, adapt, and refine what Participant becomes. If we’re going to create a place that truly feels like home, it has to be shaped by the people who’ll spend time there.
If you’ve been thinking about becoming a Founding Member, now’s the moment. We aren’t collecting money until we have a confirmed location. For now, your pledge is just a hand raised saying, “I want Participant to exist, and I’m willing to back it.”
The more support we show now, the more momentum we have with Blue Crane and future partners.
These numbers validate that Participant isn’t just a concept, it’s a movement, backed by real people.
And if you’re already in, thank you! Tell your people. Forward this email. Share the site. Talk it up. We’re building this together, and we need every hand raised.
Thanks for showing up.
– Corey
The Build #2: Location is everything!
First off - thank you! Watching more sign-ups, follows, and pledges roll in is incredible. Every share, every conversation, and every new name on the list helps us prove what we already know: Bella Vista is ready for this. The momentum is real, and it matters as we negotiate for a location. Because finding the right home base? That’s everything.
Last week, I walked a potential spot with the Blue Crane team. The location? Just about perfect. The space itself? Needs some love. But it’s got the bones to become something special—something that could truly anchor Participant’s growth. We want to be the hub of Bella Vista, and that starts with locking in the right home.
Here’s the reality: When one group owns most of the real estate, the game is different. Blue Crane is shaping what Bella Vista becomes—the trails, the bike park, the future of this place. When I laid out what we’re building and how we’re building it, I think they got it. Now it’s about making it real.
Full transparency - every win, every challenge. You’ll hear it all as we push forward.
Oh, and one more thing: Pencil in May 4th for a Bella Vista Block Party, Participant Style. You in?
Corey
The Build #1: You showed up!
Wow, 100 of you joined our email list or followed us on socials in the last week. That’s a crew. You’re the spark turning Participant Coffee & Beer from a crazy idea into something real. Thank you. Seriously. Every email, every follow, every “I’m in” is fuel for this thing.
This is “The Build”—our no-BS log of making this happen, out loud, with you.
People move to Bella Vista chasing a tight-knit, community vibe. Small-town charm with miles of trails, 7 golf courses, lakes, rivers, and all the things. But where’s the hub? There’s no place to hang out, catch up over a legit coffee, or savor a high-quality beer. We’re building that with Participant - a place where the drinks are worth it, the food is fresh, and you’re not just a customer, you’re the pulse of the place. Participant is ours. You’re not here to watch; you’re here to shape it. Welcome.
We want to get everyone together soon - we’re thinking a Participant take on a classic block party. Details coming.
Next Steps:
Scouting locations: Hunting down the perfect place in central Bella Vista -know a spot? Let us know.
Building the Team: We’re looking for a Creative Director with design skills to join our founding team.
Sourcing beer: We’re on the hunt for top-tier Arkansas beers that you don’t see everyday around here - got a favorite? Tell us!
Call-to-Action: We’d love for you to join us as a Founding Member or Support Crew - click here to learn more!
Questions / Ideas? Shoot us a note: corey@participantbellavista.com
Corey & Danielle