The words “boon” and “boona” both translate to coffee in different languages of East Africa, the birthplace of the drink. So when Efrem Fesaha opened a roastery and café in Renton, Boon Boona Coffee seemed like the perfect name for it. Launched with the aim of providing the highest quality coffee, Boon Boona Coffee sources only African coffee, working with African farmers directly. Efrem sees Boon Boona Coffee as the bridge between African specialty coffee and the Northwest, celebrating the East African coffee ceremony and the sense of togetherness coffee fosters.
Since opening Boon Boona Coffee in 2018, Efrem has been a big supporter of the Renton community, particularly minority-owned businesses and the LGBTQIA community. The work of local artists is also showcased in the café, with 100% of the art sales going to the artists themselves.
Knowing the challenges small business owners face, Efrem is especially interested in helping others like him. Home to many minority-owned businesses, downtown Renton has been hit especially hard by the pandemic. Boon Boona has been no exception. Business at the café dropped 70% immediately, and staff hours had to be reduced. But Efrem and his team are working hard to adjust, enhancing their online presence, creating a monthly subscription service and offering shipping discounts.
Eager to show his appreciation of his community, Efrem is excited to give back. As part of the Pass It On Project, Boon Boona Coffee is giving free coffee to the doctors and nurses of Valley Medical, the local hospital in Renton. Columbia Bank is picking up the tab. It’s a good way to express gratitude and provide a little pick-me-up to those healthcare workers on the front lines.
Columbia Bank has the expertise to help your business grow.
We understand running your business is your top priority. We offer tools, solutions and expertise to help keep your business running:
- Digital Banking
- Merchant Services
- Remote Deposit
- Commercial Real Estate Loans
- Payroll Management
- Capital Financing
- ACH and Tax Payment Services
Speak with a Columbia Bank Business Banker
Fill out the information below and a Business Banker will be in touch.

J.D. Power Award Highest in Customer Satisfaction with Retail Banking in the Northwest
The 2020 US. Retail Banking Study is now in it’s 15th year. For J.D. Power award information, visit jdpower.com/awards

Columbia Bank ranked #1 among Northwest banks on the 2020 Forbes List of Best Banks

Top SBA Lender
Nationally Small Business Administration

#1 SBA Lender
Portland District Small Business Administration

#2 SBA Lender
Seattle District Small Business Administration
External link notice
Click cancel or continue to proceed.