Jenny Lemons
“When I was working for someone else, I found myself drawn to pursuing my own art. When I decided to open the store, my business expanded beyond my dream and became a place to support other local artists, as well as myself.”
Inside-Out Bar
Seth created a new food product that was healthy and could serve as a meal supplement to give his peers and himself a better option than the meals available. Now Inside-Out Bar is a mission-driven nutrition bar company with a social impact that helps their customers fuel their bodies with a powerful food that supports good health from the inside out.
Threadz Culture + Fashion
Before they started their business, Christopher McMichael and Maurion Gaines came together over their shared passion for music. In 2012, Chris was working security and kept hitting ceilings as he tried to advance in his career, so he decided to pursue his clothing line full time. “My clothing line had already had some success. I…
Chef Ron’s Pastries
In 2004 Chef Ron’s Pastries started like many business: doing small orders here and there for family and friends. In 2015 brother and sister Ron and Rhonda Persons officially launched Chef Ron’s Pastries when an opportunity to work with the Golden State Warriors came to them. Since then, the business has been steadily growing, all…
IXIA
“Since I was a kid, I’ve always charted my own path, so I decided to create my own opportunities,” says Cheri. “There have been serious challenges, but I know I have to follow my passion and find people to help me achieve my goals.”
Freedom Makers
“My brother is in the Air Force, and my sister-in-law and I were having a familiar conversation about what she was going to do for work. I developed Freedom Makers to try and develop more opportunities within my community,” explains Laura.
Crooked City Cider
“My great uncles inspired me to own a business,” remembers Dana. Liquor was illegal in the early 1930, and the Bushouse brothers, John and Peter created a moonshine production that was successful back at the time. Eventually they were forced to end their business, but generations later, Dana decided to follow her great uncles’ footstep, using the family knowledge to create her unique cider recipes for everybody to enjoy.
The Hair Gym Academy & Salon
“The process takes time, but it is a good learning experience. It was pleasant to work with Main Street Launch, and they provided us with lots of support and help,” remembers Daniel.
Bardo (formerly Michel Bistro)
“Become an expert in knocking on the doors of those who are experts in everything business related. They will help you fill in the gaps of starting or growing your business so you can go forward with allies and develop relationships with people committed to your success.”
Serenity Skin Care
“I encourage all startup businesses in need to apply for loans. I was hesitant at the beginning because of the time-consuming application process and paper-work. After going through the process, the loan helped me feel ready, and it allowed me to make improvement to my business,” explains Kamilah.