This Is My Hartford is a new series from the MetroHartford Alliance. We connect with local
business owners, community drivers, residents, and employees to find out how the Hartford Region has
shaped them throughout their career, and what they have done to shape our city and region.
By Nan Price, Content Manager, MetroHartford Alliance
First in our series, Michael Acosta, co-owner of Hartford-based Story and Soil Coffee.
WHY HARTFORD? WHAT BROUGHT YOU HERE?
MICHAEL ACOSTA: Trinity College brought me to Hartford, but it was the network of passionate,
entrepreneurial, and proud Hartfordites that kept me around.
HOW HAVE YOU BECOME A PART OF HARTFORD?
MICHAEL: I believe Hartford was in need of a quality third-space and an all-around great coffeeshop.
Along with my business partners, I’ve made an investment in Hartford to provide a space where people
find themselves surrounded by good people, art, and music. Story and Soil embodies this effort to
celebrate those who make Hartford vibrant, diverse, and exciting.
HOW HAS HARTFORD BECOME A PART OF WHO YOU ARE?
MICHAEL: I am part of a supportive and growing community and hope I’m eventually able to provide as
much value as I get from Hartford.
WHAT MAKES HARTFORD UNIQUE?
MICHAEL: My Hartford is made of people and institutions who will support radical and simple ideas alike and the individuals trying to make their city better and stronger.
WHERE DO YOU SEE HARTFORD IN THE NEXT FEW YEARS?
MICHAEL: We can count on a higher population, better bicycle and public transport infrastructure, and
stronger tech, entertainment, food/beverage, and art industries.