US-based Firebrand Artisan Breads was founded in Oakland, CA in 2008 by Matt Kreutz. Since its foundation, the firewood bakery has turned into a successful business with an inspiring mission. When presented with an opportunity to employ formerly incarcerated and homeless community members in 2013, Matt Kreutz seized the moment to do things differently: Firebrand became an inclusive, equitable workplace, providing good jobs for those with barriers to employment through the craft of artisanal baking. Centering its employment on the formerly incarcerated and the formerly houseless, Matt Kreutz seeks to break the cycle of recidivism.
To guard its mission and secure aligned investors, Matt transitioned Firebrand to steward-ownership in 2020. Implementing the new ownership structure went hand-in-hand with securing mission-aligned growth capital that will enable the business to grow sustainably, drive social impact, and maintain its independence. Purpose US supported Firebrand in developing its new Purpose Trust structure and in crafting a unique, inclusive growth capital raise.
By transitioning to steward-ownership and creating the Firebrand Perpetual Purpose Trust, Matt Kreutz has not only protected Firebrand’s mission, but also created an inclusive and sustainable workplace that solidifies community engagement and has the potential to create long-term social impact. Check out the case study to read more on Firebrand and steward-ownership.
Steward-ownership tied all the things together for us. We could lock-up the mission, align the ownership structure, and then tie that to the fundraising in a very clear path.