When you think of coffee that represents more than just flavor, Spirit Bear Coffee Company stands out as a remarkable blend of culture, sustainability, and community. Founded in 2006 in Port Coquitlam, British Columbia, this proud Indigenous‑owned coffee brand has become one of Canada’s most meaningful and ethically driven coffee companies. What began as a dream rooted in Indigenous values has grown into a nationally recognized brand, offering organic, fair‑trade coffee across the country.
Spirit Bear Coffee Company is not just about roasting beans — it’s about bringing people together through shared values, supporting sustainable agriculture, and celebrating Indigenous heritage. From cozy cafés to resort coffee bars, you’ll find their products in over 600 locations in Canada today.
A Cultural Beginning: The Spirit Bear Legacy
The company’s name comes from the Spirit Bear, known in Indigenous tradition as “Moksgm’ol,” a white or cream‑colored subspecies of the North American black bear revered for its symbolic meaning of peace and harmony. This spiritual story is foundational to the brand — weaving tradition and respect for the land into every cup.
According to Indigenous lore shared by co‑founder Bill Helin, Raven was sent by the Creator to redesign the earth after a cleansing ice age. After shaping animals of all kinds, Raven gifted the Spirit Bear to represent unity and peace among all creatures. This powerful legend shaped the values of the company, and remains part of its identity today.
Founders With Vision and Heart
Spirit Bear Coffee Company was launched by four passionate leaders whose diverse backgrounds helped shape the company’s direction.
Bill Helin is a Tsimshian/Norwegian artist and cultural storyteller who brings deep ancestral wisdom to the brand. Helin is not just a co‑founder — he’s an accomplished designer, jeweler, wood carver, children’s book author, and creator of iconic works like the totem pole for the Commonwealth Games in Victoria. His cultural insight cemented the company’s values of tradition and respect.
Sean Harding grew up in the Cree culture of Alberta and brought extensive business and logistics experience to the table. With a background overseeing commodity logistics and management roles within Canadian companies, Harding helped launch Spirit Bear Coffee at a time when the marketplace was dominated by large multinational brands — a bold move for an Indigenous company.
Robin Louie, from the Lower Kootenay Territory, is a community leader and advocate for land stewardship and Indigenous culture. His commitment to youth education and environmental protection deeply influences the company’s mission.
In loving memory is Paul Biglin, a co‑founder with broad experience in food and beverage, marketing, and culinary arts. Biglin was instrumental in shaping the company’s strategic direction and marketing philosophy, helping bridge Indigenous values with business growth.
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Company Name | Spirit Bear Coffee Company |
| Founded | 2006 |
| Company Type | Indigenous-owned coffee company |
| Headquarters | Port Coquitlam, British Columbia, Canada |
| Founders | Bill Helin, Sean Harding, Robin Louie, Paul Biglin |
| Main Products | Organic coffee, fair-trade coffee blends |
| Specialty | Ethical sourcing, sustainability, Indigenous values |
| Certifications | Organic Certified, Fair Trade Certified |
| Market Presence | 600+ locations across Canada |
| Official Website | spiritbearcoffeecompany.com |
Organic, Fair Trade, and Ethically Sourced
One of the most defining features of Spirit Bear’s coffee is its focus on organic and fair trade certification. This means every bean they roast is grown without harmful pesticides and harvested under conditions that ensure farmers receive fair compensation — a key part of fostering long‑term economic sustainability for coffee‑growing communities around the world.
These certifications help support more than just farmers — they help protect the environment by promoting responsible land use and support communities by ensuring fair wages and healthy working conditions. It’s a model that reflects the company’s Indigenous principles of care, reciprocity, and respect for nature
Coffee Blends With Meaning and Flavor
Spirit Bear Coffee Company’s lineup is more than a menu — it’s a storytelling journey. Each blend is named after animals and symbols with cultural significance, and each has its own flavor personality:
- Raven Espresso — bold, rich, and full‑bodied, a coffee that awakens the senses.
- Eagle Medium Roast — a well‑balanced coffee with a smooth, soaring profile.
- Frog Breakfast Blend — a lighter roast perfect for a morning jump‑start.
- Orca Dark Roast — deep and nutty with strength to match its namesake.
- Thunderbird Dark French Roast — bold complexity for those who love full‑flavored coffee.
- Dolphin Decaf (Swiss Water Process) — smooth flavor with caffeine removed naturally.
Their products come in whole bean, ground, and compostable coffee pod options, making them versatile for home brewers and commercial use alike.
Social and Environmental Impact
Beyond great coffee, Spirit Bear Coffee Company is committed to giving back. A portion of their profits supports wildlife shelters and rehabilitation programs including the Northern Lights Wildlife Shelter and the Orphaned Wildlife Rehabilitation Society. These initiatives help rescue, rehabilitate, and release animals back into nature — a cause that aligns strongly with the company’s environmental mission.
They also partner with organizations focused on community strength and well‑being, such as Bear Clan Patrol and Life Sport Canada, amplifying their positive impact beyond the coffee world.
Challenges and Growth
In the early years, Spirit Bear Coffee Company faced skepticism. Competing with giants like Starbucks and Tim Hortons was no small feat for a new Indigenous‑owned business. But instead of retreating, the founders leaned into their unique identity and values — and found loyal customers who appreciated authenticity and purpose as much as they appreciated a good cup of coffee.
Today, Spirit Bear supplies coffee to over 50 resorts and multiple universities across Canada — a testament to persistence and strategic focus.
Why This Coffee Matters
People love Spirit Bear Coffee not just for the taste, but for what it represents. Many customers feel a sense of connection to its mission — supporting fair trade and Indigenous entrepreneurship while enjoying quality coffee. Social media and customer reviews often highlight not just the flavor, but the story and values behind the cup, elevating Spirit Bear beyond a product to a meaningful choice.
Where to Buy and Enjoy
Spirit Bear Coffee is available online through its official website and featured in cafés, boutiques, hotels, and stores across Canada. Their presence in hospitality venues gives people a chance to experience the coffee during travel or everyday routines.
They also offer gift packages and seasonal bundles, making their products a thoughtful choice for holidays and special occasions.
Final Thoughts
Spirit Bear Coffee Company is more than a coffee brand — it’s a story of culture, resilience, sustainability, and community. By combining high‑quality organic coffee with a mission that honors Indigenous traditions and supports global growers, this Canadian company stands out in the world of ethical coffee. Whether you’re sipping a morning brew at home or serving it at your business, Spirit Bear’s coffee carries a deeper meaning in every cup.
FAQs
Q: What is Spirit Bear Coffee Company?
A: Spirit Bear Coffee Company is a Canadian, Indigenous-owned coffee brand known for organic, fair-trade, and ethically sourced coffee.
Q: When was Spirit Bear Coffee Company founded?
A: Spirit Bear Coffee Company was founded in 2006 in Port Coquitlam, British Columbia, Canada.
Q: What makes Spirit Bear Coffee different from other brands?
A: The company combines Indigenous cultural values with organic farming, fair-trade practices, and sustainability.
Q: Where can I buy Spirit Bear Coffee Company products?
A: Their coffee is available online and in cafés, hotels, universities, and retail stores across Canada.
Q: Does Spirit Bear Coffee Company support social or environmental causes?
A: Yes, the company supports wildlife conservation, Indigenous communities, and ethical farming initiatives.
