A $25 Shirt and a Pound of Beans: Sycamore Student Builds a Brand

In the hallways of Sycamore High School, a specific design has become common attire among students. Three years ago, junior Jordan Friend turned a personal catchphrase into a clothing company. The venture, known as Cool Beanz, sells graphic tees featuring original characters. Friend launched the business driven by a desire to apply his interest in entrepreneurship to a tangible product.

The company currently offers approximately 30 different character designs for sale. These include variations themed around cameras, football, and music. Each shirt is sold online for $25. Friend handles the creative direction, starting with hand-drawn characters before placing them on apparel. The designs are now visible in the school environment, with classmates wearing the merchandise daily.

Establishing the business presented legal hurdles specific to Friend's age. As a minor in Ohio, he could not independently hold a Limited Liability Company or a standard Shopify account. His first attempt at launching the shop resulted in a shutdown due to these legal gaps. Friend described the initial process as difficult, noting that few people his age had attempted a similar structure. He spent time learning the logistics of sourcing manufacturers and building websites to correct these errors.

The business has gained local traction beyond the online store. The Sycamore school store now carries a special edition bean design. Friend described this recognition as a notable achievement, citing the visibility of the product in a central location where students shop. The partnership extends the reach of the brand within the immediate community.

A portion of every sale is directed toward a local cause. For each shirt purchased, the company donates one pound of beans to the FreeStore Food Bank. Friend views this donation as a way to give back to the community while operating the business. The charitable component is a fixed part of the transaction process for every customer.

Friend intends to continue managing Cool Beanz through his college years. He plans to maintain the company as a passion project rather than a full-time career. The business will remain active as he transitions to higher education.