Forward Coffee & Craft

Ownership

Forward was founded by Madison residents Dan Podell, Chad Walhood, and Melissa Moss, who wanted to move forward with their own business and created an independent coffee and beer bar. No corporate or franchise involvement found.

Local Sourcing

The business sources coffee from Brewhaha in Spring Green and uses bakery items and fresh cream from Sun Prairie, with commitment to finding local vendors. Beer selection appears to include both local and national craft breweries.

Community Involvement

The bar hosts game nights, trivia nights, and a cribbage league, and a local poetry group uses Forward as a regular venue. The owners report the neighborhood has been supportive and they're proud to be part of that community.

Local Workforce

Staff know regulars' names and have drinks ready before they arrive. Management prioritizes hiring attitude over experience and believes in training and development. No negative labor practice reviews found.

Revenue Retention

As an independent, locally-owned business with no parent company or franchising structure, revenue stays within the community. The owners secured funding from Summit Credit Union, indicating local financial support and capital retention.

Local Presence

Strong local signals include specific Madison/Atwood Ave address, establishment year (Est. 2022), AAPI & LGBTQ+ ownership callout, neighborhood-focused messaging ('Madison's Neighborhood Taproom', 'Fueling the neighborhood'), and personality-driven inclusive mission statement. Minimal corporate signals present; only generic WordPress theme usage detected.