Launch Mid Valley Summer Road Trip Series Kicks Off at Century Cafe

Jul 21, 2026

Entrepreneurship thrives through connections, shared experiences, and access to the right resources. That's the driving force behind Launch Mid Valley, the Mid-Willamette Valley's Regional Innovation Hub, which brings together entrepreneurs, business support organizations, higher education, investors, and industry partners to help startups launch, grow, and succeed throughout Marion, Polk, and Yamhill counties. Through monthly Coffee Clubs, educational programming, networking events, and startup resources, Launch Mid Valley is building a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem where innovators can learn from one another while turning ideas into thriving businesses. This summer, Coffee Club has taken that mission on the road, visiting local businesses to hear firsthand stories of entrepreneurship, innovation, and growth.

Our first stop took us to Century Cafe inside The Bohemian on 1st Street in downtown McMinnville, where attendees enjoyed great coffee, meaningful conversation, and an inspiring look at one entrepreneur's journey of continually building on new ideas.

Owner Eric Ladouceur shared how each of his ventures has naturally evolved into the next. Beginning with Tommy's Bicycle Shop & Repair, expanding into Mac Bike Rentals, and now opening Century Cafe, each business complements the others—what Eric described as "a handshake or pat on the back" to the next venture. Whether helping someone purchase their first bicycle, keeping cyclists on the road, welcoming visitors to explore McMinnville on two wheels, or creating a community gathering space over coffee, every business serves a unique purpose while strengthening the entire ecosystem.

One of the morning's most memorable moments was Eric's story about a father and daughter and the legacy first bicycle purchase for each at Tommy’s—a reminder that entrepreneurship isn't just about products or services, but about creating experiences and lasting community connections. He also shared that he is always "cycling" new ideas, continually looking for opportunities to build upon his business model and create something new.

Following Coffee Club, attendees enjoyed a behind-the-scenes tour of The Bohemian with Lesley of Cascade Movement Center and learned more about the collaborative vision for this growing downtown destination. It was a fitting reminder that entrepreneurship thrives in places where businesses support one another and where new opportunities are always around the corner.

Thank you to Eric and Alora for their generous hospitality and for sharing the story behind Century Cafe. We also appreciate Lesley for providing a tour of The Bohemian and Colt of Gold Hand Signs for stopping by to greet the group. All with a shared vision for growing the collaborative entrepreneurial community taking shape within the building. One space is available if you are looking for space!

The Summer Road Trip Series continues with two more opportunities to connect with McMinnville entrepreneurs. Join us August 18 at The Piquette Hotel, where owner Tim Wade will share the journey of bringing McMinnville's newest boutique hotel to life, followed by our September 15 stop at Flavor Kitchen, where entrepreneur Diana Perez will discuss growing a successful food business and the power of entrepreneurship through culture, community, and culinary innovation.

Whether you're launching your first idea, growing an existing business, or simply curious about the entrepreneurial journey, Coffee Club offers an opportunity to build relationships, discover resources, and be inspired by the stories of those creating the next chapter of McMinnville's economy.