In 2023, Jen Hart, the owner of Bubble’s Boba Tea, successfully used a loan from Kiva Iowa to expand her business into the Quad Cities. The expansion was a hit, and when a new opportunity arose this month, Hart knew where to seek support once again.
“Kiva’s enthusiasm, and their support of the people they work with, makes such a huge difference,” Hart said. “Kiva is like, ‘We see your vision, and we want to see you grow.’”
Bubble’s Boba Tea’s Growth
Bubble’s Boba Tea, based in Eldridge, Iowa, has already made strides, expanding into Scott Community College in Davenport and the Niabi Zoo in the Quad Cities. Hart aims to make Bubble’s Boba Tea a Midwest favorite known for its delicious bubble tea and good food.
“Bubble tea is really fun, and people love to hear about it and taste it because there’s so many different flavors and types,” Hart said. “So when we’re asking people to try it, we ask what their favorite flavor is and then find a bubble tea that matches. People either love it or hate it — and most people love it.”
Origins and Development
Bubble tea, originating from Taiwan, features jelly-like tapioca pearls that add a unique texture and flavor. Hart’s journey began when she moved from Arizona to Ohio four years ago, wanting to introduce small-town Midwestern residents to different cultures through food trucks. In August 2022, Hart and her family relocated to Eldridge and opened Bubble’s Boba Tea. The business quickly flourished, leading Hart to collaborate with Niabi Zoo officials to offer bubble tea at the zoo.
First Encounter with Kiva Iowa
To support her initial expansion, Hart reached out to Kiva Iowa, a microlending platform offering zero-interest, zero-fee loans with extended grace periods. Loans can be up to $15,000, and lenders can contribute as little as $25. Hart worked closely with Kaitlin Byers of Kiva Iowa, successfully funding her loan and receiving ongoing support. “Kaitlin was there for our ribbon cutting, and she’s been so supportive,” Hart said. “Every time I have a question, she’s gone above and beyond to be helpful.”
Recent Expansion Efforts
In March, Hart identified another expansion opportunity in Eastern Iowa, requiring an additional $8,000. She turned to Kiva again, launching a new campaign currently underway with two weeks remaining.
Hart expressed her excitement about introducing new customers to bubble tea. “We’re growing faster than we expected to at this point,” she said. “We are definitely still having to educate people about what bubble tea is and create the market. But people love our product and, once they try it, they keep coming back.”
With continued support from Kiva Iowa, Bubble’s Boba Tea is well on its way to achieving Hart’s vision of becoming a well-known name in the Midwest.
