CIE’s Community Enterprise is coming up on its first anniversary of helping emerging grassroots entrepreneurs in Clallam and Jefferson Counties start and grow microenterprises. Since March, we’ve been focusing on the urgent needs of existing businesses fighting to survive the pandemic – helping them access nearly $300,000 in emergency funding to retain over 70 jobs. At the same time, we look for every opportunity to help get new businesses launched so they can contribute to the region’s recovery. One that we’re especially excited about is Two Hooligans Cider.

Two Hooligans refers to co-founders Mackenzie Grinnell and Jaiden Dokken, childhood friends who grew up on the OP and who are returning home to put down roots. It has been a busy few months working with Finnriver Cider, who is helping the business supply cider to the new 7 Cedars Hotel when it opens this summer. With prize money from CIE’s Coast Works business competition, and ongoing support from CIE’s Community Enterprise program, Mackenzie and Jaiden are putting together their own facility and getting ready for the apple pressing season to bring Two Hooligans Cider to other locations as early as this winter. “Launching during this period of powerful increase in awareness of the need for resiliency and social justice on the Peninsula feels right,” says Mackenzie. “We are excited to find ways that Two Hooligans Cider can contribute to this essential work.”

“Entrepreneurship is leadership,” says Mike Skinner, CIE’s executive director. “Mackenzie and Jaiden exemplify this, and we very much look forward to supporting their efforts to lead the region’s transition to a new and better normal through Two Hooligans Cider.”