Ideas aren’t everything, execution matters greatly, but starting often requires an idea and so we asked folks to think back and tell us the story of how they came up with the idea for their businesses. We’ve highlighted some of our favorite stories below.

Albert Hayes | CEO of OVERTURNED Apparel

I came up with the idea for the business when Roe V. Wade was overturned, and Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas was looking at other groups to remove human rights! With that we decided to use fashion as the way to promote positivity in a world full of negativity! So, we decided to give $4 of every order to organizations that support people. Read more>>

Shawanda Daniel | CEO, Vibrato

As someone who chooses to wear my natural roots and curls, I initially struggled to embrace my hair and take care of it. After trying several different products, exploring what worked best for me, I became intrigued/interested in understanding the effectiveness of products. Read more>>

Nandi Edouard | Chief Executive Officer and Lead School Founder

As I reflect on my own educational journey and my family’s experiences in entrepreneurship, I am reminded of the challenges and rewards that come with pursuing one’s passions. It is not an easy path, but it is one that requires creativity, critical thinking, effort, and discipline – qualities that are often overlooked in traditional schooling. Read more>>

Guy Bottoms | Chef

I have always wanted to be a chef since I was 6 years old. When I was 19 it was between going to the military or culinary arts school. I picked the army so I could get school money. Ended up doing 11 years and 3 months, got out to chase my dream to be a chef. Read more>>