Erin Belch: Serving coffee, connection, and community at The Belching Barista
Erin Belch, Founder of The Belching Barista and a proud member of Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation, is bringing people together over a shared love of coffee. Based in Waterford, Ontario, Erin and her husband Tim started their coffee journey seven years ago when they roasted beans in their basement as a gift for their wedding guests. What began as a small idea quickly transformed into online sales and now has become a full storefront with a Tasting Bar and larger roaster. Their vision is rooted in bringing good people and good coffee together, while supporting sustainable farming practices and using green energy through Bullfrog Power.
Being part of the Pow Wow Pitch journey marks an exciting new chapter for Erin. The Belching Barista plans to grow their business by purchasing a coffee trailer so they can attend events, festivals and pow wows, bringing freshly roasted coffee directly to community members. They also plan to host introductory roasting workshops for nearby First Nations communities, providing hands-on education and encouraging others to explore the world of ethical, high-quality coffee. For Erin, it is about more than selling a product; it is about educating and encouraging others to connect through intentional, meaningful experiences.
One of Erin’s biggest accomplishments has been opening the storefront and welcoming twins in the same year. Balancing motherhood with entrepreneurship has not been easy, but Erin credits her faith and the strong partnership she shares with Tim for getting through the long days and sleepless nights. Their dedication has been rewarded with overwhelming community support and a loyal customer base that returns for both the flavour and the feeling behind each cup.
Erin believes Pow Wow Pitch plays a vital role in supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs and creating pathways for long-term success and reconciliation. Working with her mentor, Stephen Nairne from Raven Indigenous Capital Partners, gave her the clarity and confidence to effectively tell her story in a way that reflects her purpose and values. “He was both encouraging and constructive,” Erin shares, “and I look forward to sharing a freshly roasted coffee with him as a thank you!”
For aspiring Indigenous entrepreneurs, Erin offers this advice: forging your own path comes with challenges, but staying true to your values and believing in your product makes every early morning worthwhile. Entrepreneurship, for her, is not only about building a business; it is about building community.
Watch Erin as she pitches her business in the Food & Drink category airing on September 8, 2025 at 6:00 PM ET. Click here to see all episodes: powwowpitch.org/episodes.