Bean and Pie launches Kickstarter campaign

A North Idaho pie company has launched a Kickstarter campaign in the hope of raising $20,000 toward securing a storefront in Coeur d’Alene.

The 30-day campaign kicked off Wednesday.

Proprietors Katy and Ethan Bean specialize in farm-to-table pie.

The couple are working on obtaining bank financing, but need helping coming up with a down payment for the loan as well as money to buy commercial kitchen equipment.

The Beans started Bean and Pie in summer 2017 out of their home kitchen. In 2018, they sold pies at the Kootenai County Farmers Market and Kendall Yards Night Market.

Now, they are hoping to open a neighborhood pie shop, or – according to their Kickstarter page, a “gathering place, where you can enjoy good company over a slice of pie and a cup of coffee, or pick-up a pie to enjoy with family and friends.”

They would like to open in 2019.

They strive to use as many local and organic ingredients as they can in their fruit, cream and savory pies, which include gluten-free and vegan options. Flavors change seasonally.

The Beans don’t use fillers or preservatives; they thicken pies with flour or cornstarch.

Pies are made in small batches. Production capabilities are limited.

“Having our own pie-bakery, with more space and commercial baking equipment, will allow us to expand our business and continue serving our community delicious pies that can be enjoyed with family and friends,” according to the Bean and Pie Kickstarter page.

The all-or-nothing campaign ends Dec. 28. The Beans need to be fully funded by then in order to receive any money. Pledges can be made in increments of $5 or more.

At the $20 level, givers get a sticker and an apple pie-scented candle. Those who pledge $30 also receive a Bean and Pie T-shirt. And those who give $50 get a whole 10-inch pie, plus a slice of pie or a handpie, and a sticker.

For $250, supporters are invited to the launch party and take home a pie, sticker, candle and T-shirt. And for a pledge of $1,500 or more, supporters get a pie-making party for six and a 10-inch pie every month for a year, plus a slice of pie with coffee, a T-shirt and a sticker.

For more information, contact the Beans via their website at beanandpie.com or send an email to info@beanandpie.com.