I’m Prince Awhaitey, the founder and CEO of Healthy Kingdom and a graduate of the JumpStart 2024 business incubator program.
I first heard about JumpStart when I was selling coconuts at the Burlington Farmers Market and met Meg Hammond, Generator’s executive director, who encouraged me to apply. Healthy Kingdom is my nutrition wellness business that provides nutrition retreats, corporate wellness, and branded coconuts for events. Over the past 3 months in JumpStart I’ve refined my business plan, constructed a coconut bike cart prototype, and optimized my laser engraving process for my coconuts.
I grew up in Ghana where fresh coconuts were a big part of our culture. Then when I was pursuing my Masters in nutrition I learned that coconuts have a wide variety of documented health benefits; including macronutrients and antioxidants that help with insulin sensitivity, high blood pressure, kidney function, and digestive health. As a community nutritionist, I was thrilled to discover that coconuts are a superfood that can make a positive impact for so many people.
Now I put a fresh spin on serving coconuts by customizing them for events. I use a laser cutter to engrave logos or words on the shell of the coconut, which have become very popular as event refreshments or promotional giveaways.
JumpStart has been hugely beneficial to my business development. It’s been so helpful to have the structure of a class and cohort of peers to provide accountability and motivation to keep moving forward. I’ve taken other business courses, but JumpStart is the only one that’s had such relevant information that I can immediately put to use for my business.
I think a lot of that is thanks to our instructor Emily Eley. Her advice is like food with good seasoning – it has spice to it! It’s never the obvious or generic response, she’s giving us well-researched, grounded, and innovative guidance.
The engineering consultation I received through JumpStart helped me to finesse my process for laser cutting my coconuts, and put me in touch with skilled metalworkers that constructed the prototype of my new coconut bike cart – complete with a freezer, sink, and awning!
Looking ahead, I want to grow my business to offer more corporate retreats and nutrition workshops. And I am especially passionate about connecting low-income communities with better nutritional options. I am hoping to become part of the USDA funded Summer Food Service Program to provide eligible families with free coconuts.
I am so grateful to Generator and the JumpStart program for providing me with the guidance and support to push my business forward and provide healthy food options to more people.
Prince… Thank you so much for the kind and thoughtful words!
As a nonprofit, community support from people like you is what enables Generator to continue to offer our impactful programs for entrepreneurs such as Prince.
Supporting Generator is never a bad idea, but right now it’s an especially good one!
We are currently fundraising to support programs like JumpStart, and if we raise $20,000 in community donations by June 16th we will unlock a $20,000 match from some generous sponsors. So please consider making a donation today… We won’t make it without you!
Jon Roberts has been a Generator member for over 3 years now, and is a multimedia artist using the laser cutter, plasma cutter, and woodshop for some interesting applications in sculpture. We first talked to Jon about his art installation for the total eclipse event in Lake Champlain this April.
We’re excited to bring you his full Generator story in his own words.
I found my way to Generator when I was looking for space to make art and a community to fend off the isolation that one can feel as an artist. But I had no idea the ways my 2D artwork would be transformed into large public sculptures over the next few years at Generator.
When I first came to Generator I was mostly making paintings and works on paper. The woodshop allowed me to make panels for paintings and the laser cutter offered interesting possibilities for cut paper works. As I watched people bring ambitious dreams into reality it helped me to think bigger.
As the 2024 eclipse was approaching this past year, I had an idea for a sculpture that was unlike anything I had previously done. I used the laser cutter and woodshop at Generator to fabricate a temporary 10 ft. x 40 ft. installation of floating faces. The sculpture was placed offshore in Lake Champlain and glowed during the eclipse and at night with phosphorescence.
My eclipse installation has received positive attention and helped inspire new works. I was recently accepted as the Generator Artist-In-Residence for the fall and I plan on using the CNC driven plasma cutter to cut large scale sculptures out of sheet steel, and the computer lab to help design my sculptures. It’s not just the tools that help enable projects like this, it’s the community and the other members.
I often describe Generator as feeling like an MFA program at a major university for a tiny fraction of the cost. Being a studio member and the work I make here has also helped me to secure a competitive residency at The Vermont Studio Center, and I am currently writing a proposal for the BCA Community Art Fund for a large public art project in Burlington. I am very grateful to what Generator has done for me, and what it does for creative culture and business in Vermont.
As a nonprofit Generator relies on community support to continue to offer our impactful programs and resources to artists like Jon. Will you give today to support Generator?
We currently have a fundraising goal to raise $20,000 in community donations to unlock an additional $20,000 match from our generous sponsors – which means if you give today your gift will have twice the impact!
Barbara Sauer-Davis first came to Generator as a fledgling woodworker looking to make use of the full suite of tools in our woodshop. Since then her skills and her small business have grown, and we’re thrilled to have her in this year’s cohort of our JumpStart entrepreneurship program. Barbara has a unique focus on using traditional craftsmanship techniques to make furniture that connects history, sustainability, and quality.
We hope you enjoy reading about Barbara’s woodworking journey in her own words.
Woodworking for me isn’t just about crafting furniture – it’s about weaving together history, craftsmanship, and community. I’m Barbara Sauer-Davis, the maker behind Wolf and Wood Thrush. Being a member at Generator, and now as an entrepreneur in their JumpStart business incubator, has allowed me to elevate my business to new heights.
At the heart of my practice is an appreciation for history and sustainability. Using traditional centuries-old techniques, I aim to forge connections between the past and the present. My commitment to sustainability drives me to challenge the disposable culture of mass-produced furniture and to craft pieces that transcend trends and are made to last.
My woodworking journey began at the Yestermorrow Design/Build School, where I took an 11- week certificate course that sparked my interest in historic craftsmanship. During the course I constructed a chair using only hand tools and fell in love with the process of crafting furniture by hand. After selling my final project, an old fashioned wooden coffee grinder, I launched an Etsy store and ventured into entrepreneurship.
Joining Generator Makerspace in 2018 was transformative for my business. I was able to expand from the hand-carved spoons I was making at home to larger cutting boards and pieces of furniture that I could make in the woodshop. Being a member opened up so many opportunities, like accessing a full suite of tools and selling at the Art Hop and Holiday Humbug markets.
I’m now enrolled in Generator’s JumpStart program and I’m gaining guidance on all the logistics of running a small business. Before this class I was flying by the seat of my pants. Now I’m learning all the specific steps and skills I need to move my business forward – from taxes to marketing strategy. JumpStart has given me clarity on my business goals and a concrete roadmap for the future, empowering me to navigate entrepreneurship with purpose and direction.
As I work towards turning Wolf and Wood Thrush into a full-time career, Generator remains a vital resource for me. Generator members have given me advice, support and creative inspiration in what would otherwise be a very solitary pursuit. Its community, tools, and supportive environment have been instrumental in my growth as a woodworker and entrepreneur.
JumpStart and Generator have given me the confidence to grow my business in ways I never thought possible. I hope they can continue to help other makers like me in the future.
Right now Generator is trying to raise $20,000 in community donations to unlock a $20,000 matching donation. These funds would provide vitally needed support for Generator’s educational programs.
We’re 25% of the way towards our goal. Will you join me in giving back to Generator?
Sincerely, Barbara Sauer-Davis
Thank you so much for sharing Barbara!
As a nonprofit Generator relies on community support to continue to offer our impactful programs and resources to makers like Parker. Will you give today to support Generator?
We currently have a fundraising goal to raise $20,000 in community donations to unlock an additional $20,000 match from our generous sponsors – which means if you give today your gift will have twice the impact!
Parker Silver is a talented multimedia artist and performer who strives to use art to bring people together and create joy and healing. Since becoming a member two years ago, they’ve been creating gothic artwork for their small business on the laser cutter, and also actively building community at Generator. Now they’re launching their own community arts nonprofit that also incorporates creativity, experimentation, and connection.
We hope you enjoy reading Parker’s story about building “Third Spaces” that foster creativity and inclusivity.
My name is Parker Silver, and I wear many hats – business owner, artist, performer – and a member of Generator. This makerspace community has supported my creative exploration, and has also played an important role in my growth as an artist and entrepreneur.
As a multidisciplinary artist, I work with acrylic paint, digital design, resin, and wood cutting to make pieces inspired by gothic and art nouveau aesthetics, and anatomy and nature. Access to Generator’s tools and space has been instrumental in developing my artistic practice. The rapid prototyping tools at Generator have allowed me to make pieces more quickly and with a wider variety of materials.
I made use of these tools when I was previously operating Hi Ho Silver, my small business selling art, apparel, and stickers – many of which were made using Generator’s laser and vinyl cutters. I am also a contemporary performance artist, working in spoken word, burlesque, and as an emcee since 2018.
Recently, my focus has shifted to Grimm’s Domain, a community arts event nonprofit that I lead. Our mission is to create spaces and events where people can connect, express themselves authentically, and celebrate diverse voices from the QTPOC and Disabled community.
Grimm’s Domain offers free and paid programming that spans vaudeville, drag, and pole dance performances; and community events focused on somatic wellness, self-expression, and intergenerational connections. In the next year we are hoping to launch free movie and karaoke nights, tabletop role-playing game meetups, and an inclusive DIY fashion show event. We aim to provide inclusive environments, epitomizing the concept of a “third space” where people can connect beyond work or home.
I see Generator as another example of a thriving third space in Vermont. My favorite thing about this community is that the professional equipment and expertise is paired with a sense of play. People aren’t limiting themselves to projects for a specific goal or job – they are experimenting because they love to learn and create.
The greatest benefit Generator offers, in my opinion, is the access to a network of support. The community’s unwavering support means that even if there’s a glitch with a machine, there are always people to help you troubleshoot or find alternate solutions, ensuring that you are still able to create.
As a nonprofit Generator relies on community support to continue to offer our impactful programs and resources to makers like Parker. Will you give today to support Generator?
We currently have a fundraising goal to raise $20,000 in community donations to unlock an additional $20,000 match from our generous sponsors – which means your gift can go twice as far!
Rob Rock was one of Generator’s first members and a pivotal part of launching our makerspace back in 2014. Rob is a talented maker, artist and inventor, but also has the unique experience of applying his skills to his other passion – farming. As the co-owner of Pitchfork Farm he’s customized, built, and invented many agricultural machines to assist with farm work. We’ve been wanting to share his maker story for years, and Rob was kind enough to take time out of the busy spring planting season recently to write up his history of making at Generator.
We hope you enjoy reading Rob’s story in his own words.
I’m Rob Rock, the co-owner of Pitchfork Farm and a Generator member. Pitchfork Farm is a diverse 22 acre vegetable farm located in Burlington’s Intervale, and Generator has been integral to the operation of our farm and to my exploration of designing and building agricultural machinery.
I’ve been a part of the Generator community since its founding days, and as soon as I became familiar with the tools I began applying them to farming. I quickly started customizing farm equipment and prototyping new agricultural tools. I used 3D-printed parts to create a high-density seeding tool for small-scale farming. I then began building tractor-drawn implements in the metal shop, as well as an electric motor driven prone weeding platform that allows farmers to comfortably lie flat for hand weeding or transplanting while increasing efficiency.
Rob transplanting onions using his prone weeding platform.
At this point I was itching to start a company after seeing so many early Generator members launch businesses. I started Upstream Ag and began building next generation machinery for small farms. The tool that really took off was our FlameWeeder, which was a tractor-mounted propane torch that quickly killed weeds without the use of pesticides. I sold about 50-60 FlameWeeders (before it became a little too hectic running a farm and a manufacturing business), and fabricated most of them at Generator. I relied on the plasma cutter to make custom parts, and hired Generator members to help with production since they were the most highly skilled workers in town.
Rob testing out a prototype of the FlameWeeder.
Most recently I have been making use of the Generator tools to design, adapt, and repair equipment for Pitchfork Farm. Recently I repaired a vintage carrot harvesting machine built sometime in the 80s for which parts are no longer readily available. When the lift arm mechanism broke I was able to fabricate a new mount using the milling machine at Generator. For a small farm, this is a big win that allows us to save money and extend the life of unique equipment that fits our scale of production.
The laser cutter and 3D printers have helped me to develop a ‘speed seeder’ which allows us to manually seed a 144 plug greenhouse flat with lettuce seed in a little under one second – it’s a pretty good result for now but I’m thinking maybe I can automate it!
The carrot harvester in action on the farm.
Generator is a treasure trove for anyone working in a physical medium – whether that’s the arts, trades, or agriculture. The tools and community at Generator were vital in helping me through the early years at Pitchfork Farm and in realizing projects that would otherwise have been impossible to make, and I remain excited to keep the projects flowing as I look to the future.
Generator has made a huge impact for me, and I want to make sure other makers continue to have access to their resources.
– Rob
Thank you Rob!
As a nonprofit makerspace, support from our community is what allows Generator to offer a wide variety of programs and provide access to resources that makers like Rob find valuable. Might you be willing to contribute today?
We are currently in the middle of our spring fundraiser. Thanks to some generous sponsors we have the opportunity to unlock a $20,000 matching gift if we can raise $20,000 in community donations by Sunday, June 16th, 2024. If you contribute today, you gift will go twice as far!
Ahead of our upcoming JumpStart Expo & Pitch Night, we are excited to introduce our next cohort of Generator entrepreneurs!
These ten talented makers were specially selected to participate in 2024 JumpStart Business Bootcamp, a 12-week startup development program facilitated by business coach Emily Eley. This amazing crew has been meeting weekly since early March, setting goals, crafting prototypes, and fine tuning their business models.
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1713459000501{margin-top: 20px !important;}”]Healthy Kingdom offers personalized coconuts to be used as souvenirs or as a healthy snack for experiential marketing at events. From weddings to corporate summer parties, coconuts are the perfect product to create a memorable event experience.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” bottom_padding=”30″ overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”padding-3-percent” column_padding_position=”right” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/2″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”13628″ alignment=”” animation=”None” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/2″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]
Hannah Fleming Cherry Pickingss
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1713459031566{margin-top: 20px !important;}”]Cherry Pickingss offers fashion-forward up-cycled garments made from secondhand textiles. Our products are wearable art that make people feel beautiful while promoting sustainable fashion.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” bottom_padding=”30″ overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”padding-3-percent” column_padding_position=”right” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/2″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”13626″ alignment=”” animation=”None” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/2″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]
Julia Footh Ski Table
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1713459158826{margin-top: 20px !important;}”]Ski Table is a portable table that attaches to the side of your vehicle to support skis/snowboards (preventing scratches) and organize small items and water bottles/cans.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” bottom_padding=”30″ overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”padding-3-percent” column_padding_position=”right” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/2″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”13621″ alignment=”” animation=”None” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/2″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]
Rob Galloway Business Name TBD
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1713459423569{margin-top: 20px !important;}”]Rob’s business hopes to offer bespoke full suspension mountain bike frames by utilizing metal 3d printing, cnc machining and traditional frame building techniques. The frames will be manufactured locally using recyclable materials.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” bottom_padding=”30″ overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”padding-3-percent” column_padding_position=”right” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/2″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”13622″ alignment=”” animation=”None” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/2″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1713459660613{margin-top: 20px !important;}”]Sleeping Phoenix Apothecary sells hand-blended, small-batch, botanical perfume using only natural ingredients diluted in organic cane alcohol. We proudly offer 100% ingredient transparency because we believe you have a right to know what you’re putting on your body.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” bottom_padding=”30″ overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”padding-3-percent” column_padding_position=”right” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/2″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”13627″ alignment=”” animation=”None” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/2″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1713463014155{margin-top: 20px !important;}”]
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1713462076560{margin-top: 20px !important;}”]Compliment Coins are (literal) tokens of appreciation designed to help connect people with each other. Always meaningful and sometimes ridiculous, they are a lasting and unexpected way to show someone you care.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” bottom_padding=”30″ overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”padding-3-percent” column_padding_position=”right” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/2″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”13620″ alignment=”” animation=”None” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/2″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1714139126979{margin-top: 20px !important;}”]I design banana-print and banana-shaped handbags. My handbag designs actively contribute to the fight against social and racial injustice by drawing inspiration from the vibrant cultural heritage of communities living in, and migrating from, regions where bananas flourish. My designs pay tribute to the diverse traditions, customs, and art forms that have shaped these communities. By incorporating elements of this rich cultural tapestry into my handbag designs, I not only create stunning handbag designs but also raise awareness to foster a sense of unity and appreciation for cultural diversity.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” bottom_padding=”30″ overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”padding-3-percent” column_padding_position=”right” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/2″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”13667″ alignment=”” animation=”None” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/2″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]
Thomas Moore
EZ AIRFLOW
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1716571210906{margin-top: 20px !important;}”]The EZ AIRFLOW is a multi-purpose tool that efficiently addresses pain points associated with manually inflating and deflating inflatable toys featuring the ubiquitous one-way air valve (inflatable toys include pool floats, ring floats, ride-on floats, beach balls, and more).[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” bottom_padding=”30″ overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”padding-3-percent” column_padding_position=”right” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/2″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”13624″ alignment=”” animation=”None” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/2″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1713462807865{margin-top: 20px !important;}”]Wolf and Wood Thrush makes slow-crafted wooden furniture, housewares, and decorative pieces inspired by the past and using (mostly) historic/traditional hand tool methods that incorporate the values of sustainability, accessibility, and empowerment into the processes and products of quality woodworking.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][divider line_type=”Full Width Line” line_thickness=”1″ divider_color=”default” custom_height=”40″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1713464737218{margin-bottom: 40px !important;}”]
Don’t forget to RSVP!
The JumpStart Expo & Pitch Night will feature a public showcase of our JumpStart participants’ products, and over the course of the event every entrepreneur will get up and pitch their company/product to the public and their peers! You’ll get to hear each business plan straight from the founders themselves – with plenty of time for questions and feedback.
This event is FREE and will take place on Wednesday, May 29th from 5-8pm.[/vc_column_text][image_with_animation image_url=”13508″ alignment=”center” animation=”None” img_link_target=”_blank” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%” img_link=”https://app.glueup.com/event/jumpstart-expo-pitch-night-104284/”][/vc_column][/vc_row]
A month or so ago I reached out to our membership through the forum asking if anyone had a project or story they’d be willing to share. One of the people that replied was Dan Rabinovitch. Dan had recently taken our MIG welding and CNC Plasma trainings, and wanted to share a short video documenting a cool mini-firepit he had made as a way to practice his new skills. Dan appeared to be having a great time learning and experimenting, and a couple of weeks later we were able to connect in person so I could chase Dan around our metal and wood shops with my camera. After spending time with Dan I was even more curious, so I sent Dan a selection of questions about where he’s from, what he does outside of Generator, asking about his history as a maker, and his experience here at Generator. Below is the result.
So please enjoy this short piece of writing courtesy of Dan himself!
Name: Dan Rabinovitch Current Location: Stowe, VT Birthplace: IsraelBusiness: Aromatic Designs Website: www.aromaticdesigns.org
I was born and raised in Israel. At age 13, my family relocated to New Jersey.
I spent the majority of my life living in urban settings, mostly New York City. Around my mid-thirties, I started undergoing an existential process that, only in hindsight, I can recognize as a mid-life crisis. There is of course, far too much depth to this history than can be summed up in a few sentences, but suffice it to say that this was the point I realized that to preserve my sanity, I needed to live in a place where there is more earth than pavement, and make more art.
It took several more years of plotting, exploring, and untethering, but I finally managed to make the (timely) move from NYC to the greater Stowe area in 2019. Around this time I had started working on some ideas for interactive large scale installations, the manifestation of which would require dusting off and expanding my scope and skills. To that end I began to seek out a makerspace/community in the area, and it wasn’t very long before I discovered Generator!
I have not been very disciplined about coming to generator regularly at a specific time, but since joining I’ve taken quite a few tool trainings and tried my hand at several small projects, from home projects like a simple plywood dolly for my stereo system, to custom speaker shelves, to signs and award plaques, to a portable mini-firepit. In almost every case, I’ve benefited from the advice and guidance of generator members and staff, both in person and on the online forum. Thanks generator community!
With a background in graphic design, I naturally gravitate towards using the ever-satisfying CNC tools like the laguna router, the cnc plasma cutter, and the laser cutters. I feel most comfortable in the metal shop at this point, but I’m getting more confident in the wood shop as well. It feels very rewarding to complete small projects, but they are really stepping stones towards a bigger plan for an interactive, kinetic art installation – a human powered, life size music sequencer. As I’ve been honing my fabrication chops and developing a tabletop scale model, I’ve also been refining the simplicity and practical feasibility of the design, and I hope to enlist the considerable knowledge and skill of some of generator’s finest to scale up from a tabletop model to human size, starting this spring.
I feel art is very important, perhaps more so in our time than ever before. Art holds the influential potential, not only to connect hearts and minds to fresh moods and perspectives, but in addition, to ignite a sense of curiosity and wonder. Such an attitude is too often hushed or brushed aside by social influences towards increasing reliance on digital technology, hyper-specialization, and an education system rooted deeply in “the authority of the already established,” at the expense of experimentation and creativity.
Curiosity is a skeleton key to the doors of intuition and imagination.
Here at Generator we host Green Mountain Robotics, a regional robotics team comprised of Chittenden County high school students that competes in the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC). But did you know that you don’t have to wait until high school to get involved in robotics?
FIRST Lego League is another option for students interested in science, technology, engineering, and math, and they offer multiple programs for students ages 4-16. A growing number of communities are coming together to form teams, and we had the chance to check in with Green Mountain Homeschool Robotics (GMHR), a team located in Williston that represents families in Chittenden County. GMHR has seen a lot of success in the two years they have been around, recently winning the State Championships. Now, they are preparing to head to the World Championships in Houston, TX in April. Continue reading to learn more about GMHR and how you can help support their world championship dreams!
Team Name: Green MTN Homeschool Robotics What: FIRST Lego League Team Facebook: LINK Fundraising Page: LINK WCAX Story: LINK
How did Green Mountain Homeschool Robotics (GMHR) come to exist… How long has it been around?
The Green Mountain Homeschool robotics team launched two years ago when we became aware of the need for a robotics team that could serve homeschoolers. When researching FIRST Lego League, we watched the video “FIRST Global – Not A Robot”, and we were inspired to tackle the challenge of creating a team so that we could provide this tremendous opportunity for our students.
What is FIRST Lego League and what kinds of activities or challenges are the students engaging with?
FIRST Lego League is an organization that structures teams to compete in four areas— core values, robot design, robotics runs (solving a set of missions within a specific time frame by coding a custom robot), and innovation projects. Each year, an innovation challenge is released asking teams to solve a problem using innovative and inclusive technology.
Why does FIRST Lego League include a service/innovation project? How does it connects to the rest of the program, and what is GMHR’s service project?
FLL includes a service project/innovation project to help students understand how they can connect with their community and use technology to solve the world’s problems. One of the FLL founders has invented so many solutions to benefit others that his goal is to inspire this sort of thinking early on in our students. The Green Mountain Homeschool robotics team has chosen stone carving to answer this year’s challenge of using technology to introduce a favorite hobby to more people. They are creating an app called “See the Stone” for the blind and visually impaired to stone carve as easily as a sighted person. They are partnering with Vermont’s Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired to design this app for blind children to use as part of their upcoming summer camp.
Can you tell us a bit about winning the State Championship, and the upcoming world championships in Houston? What challenges will the students face?
The team was happy about what they accomplished together to win the State Championship. Unlike many teams that have schools behind them, each student on our team represents their own homeschool and small town. They come from four different towns to meet and solve problems together. At the World Championship, the robotics challenges will stay the same, but the challenge of just getting there and raising the necessary funds will be this team’s biggest hurdle. In Texas, there will be thousands of participants and attendees from countries worldwide, and our team is excited to compete at the highest level while also presenting the design for our app “See the Stone” to a much wider audience.
This next set of questions were asked of the four students that currently comprise the Green Mountain Homeschool Robotics Team: Arielle, Emilyn, Ted, and JJ.
How, and when, did you get involved with Green Mountain Homeschool Robotics?
Arielle: I found out about GMHR from a friend who does it, and it sounded interesting. I just joined in 2023.
Emilyn: I was friends with one of the team members before the team started, so when they got the idea to start a robotics team, I joined right away.
Ted: I started in August of 2022 when I was looking for activities to do during the school year.
JJ: I started as a way to refocus just after my grandfather, who had been living with us, passed away.
What are your favorite parts about participating on this team?
Arielle: I loved working with the team to create an innovation project. We have to work together to figure stuff out. I also liked working on the robot and helping code with the team. It is great to celebrate when we break through a tough part.
Emilyn: My favorite parts are everything! I love the challenge of the innovation project each year and the super intense excitement of competing on the robot runs. When the referee calls “Teams, are you ready? 3,2,1, LEGO!” we start the robot runs that we’ve worked so hard to code, and for the next 2 ½ minutes we are so focused, that despite all the crowd cheers, our eyes are only busy following the robot.
Ted: It is super fun, and you make new friends. It is probably the most fun form of learning out there. We also get to learn about and use cool software.
JJ: It combines all my favorite things: good friends, playing with LEGO, and coding simultaneously.
What are some of the things you’ve learned through FIRST Lego League?
Arielle: I learned how to code better and how to program a robot.
Emilyn: I’ve learned how to code and that it can sometimes be fun to be nervous on competition day as we make sure we are where we need to be with all the components of our robot. I’ve also learned that I love giving presentations! It feels just like performing on stage, and theater is another favorite hobby of mine.
Ted: I’ve learned how to code a robot, as well as how to design and build it.
JJ: How to be a good friend and be supportive; I’ve also learned about coding, and with the innovation project, I learned about different aspects of the community in Vermont.
Why is challenging yourself so important?
Arielle: It is important to challenge yourself. If no one ever did there wouldn’t have been anyone to invent things like iPhones and rocket ships or even the U.S.A.
Emilyn: Challenging myself is important because when things are hard to do, I learn more. It is mega fun to challenge myself.
Ted: Challenging yourself helps you build up confidence to try new things. It helps you get better at things that used to seem impossible.
JJ: My brain works so fast that I need a challenge to keep myself engaged. When I challenge myself, I realize that I can do things that are hard.
Next, we asked the parents to share their perspective about how getting involved with FIRST Lego League has impacted their families.
How has participating in FIRST Lego League benefitted these young students?
FLL has given each team member a new view of themselves, both as individuals capable of new challenges and as part of a cohesive and supportive team. It has allowed them so many new and valuable experiences, and they have gained many new life skills along the way. They have learned how to be part of a team, how to overcome challenges, and how to problem solve. I’ve seen my son’s confidence grow since joining this team, as I’ve watched him tackle new things that are out of his comfort zone, with his team supporting him. My daughter has excelled at staying calm and focused in the midst of high-stress competition; she has become much more confident in her ability to do hard things and to solve challenging open-ended problems together with her team. Participating in robotics has opened doors of possibility for her, and I’m certain that the skills she is learning will be greatly beneficial for her future career and life goals, no matter what she chooses to pursue.
What is something that you learned, or surprised you, as a coach/parent about First Lego League that other parents/teachers should know about?
We just had no idea how big of a movement the FIRST Lego League is! We’re continually impressed at the skills these kids have and know these experiences will serve them well in life. We didn’t realize how important FIRST Lego League would be to these kids at such a young age and what an impact it would make on their interests and development. The FLL Challenge provides integrated learning across so many areas – engineering, math, art, design, writing, communication, teamwork, innovation, science, coding, presentation skills, networking, community building – the possibilities are endless.
How has participating affected you as a coach/parent? Have you grown or changed in any way?
Learning to work with group dynamics in our own home basement has been valuable for us as a family. It’s a wonderful platform to be able to support kids and families in such a fun yet meaningful outlet. It’s been fun to learn a bit more about coding and technology and to have the kids teach us new things!
Is FIRST Lego League something other parents and teachers should consider getting involved with? Why?
This has been a great experience for my son, and I would definitely recommend it for other families who are on the fence about it. As a homeschooling family, it has been great to be able to participate in a group project, where my son can make friends and develop important teamwork skills. There are so many different facets of the FLL Challenge, from coding to technology development, community relations, and details such as shirts, team support material, and even snacks! There is room for involvement at any level, especially for our small team. Participating in FLL gives our kids valuable skills that will serve them well in throughout their lives and future careers. It shows them a world of possibility and the challenging and the integrated nature of the competition teaches them so much more than we ever anticipated.
Green Mountain Homeschool Robotics recently won the State Championship for FIRST Lego League for the second year in a row, and have been invited to represent Vermont in the World Championships in Houston, TX in April! They are currently fundraising to help make this trip possible. Money raised will be used to cover event registration costs, travel, lodging, and meals. Any extra funds would be used to support the upcoming summer camp for blind students hosted by the Vermont Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired.
You can Contribute Here, and if you’d like to follow along during the World Championships the team plans to post periodic updates on the team’s Facebook Page.
[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]Richard Gliech is a Burlington based engineer & entrepreneur who spends his days providing English-to-French translation services for companies operating in technical and industrial fields. In the evening’s Richard likes to entertain and cook, inviting family and friends to gather around an old steel drum he turned into an oven over 15 years ago. That oven was inspired by similar ones he had seen used to cook tarte flambée while growing up in Wissembourg in the Alsace region of France.
During the pandemic, after many years of requests to purchase ovens, Richard decided to try and build a smaller version that would be more appropriate for backyard entertaining. He signed up for metalworking classes here at Generator, participated in the JumpStart Business Development Program, launched WoodFyred, and has been slowly growing the business ever since with the enthusiastic support of his wife Sandra.
Below we check in with Richard to see how things are going, and to learn a little bit about his experience participating in the JumpStart Program.[/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”Full Width Line” line_thickness=”2″ divider_color=”default”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/2″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”13397″ alignment=”center” animation=”None” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/2″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1704746904232{margin-left: 20px !important;}”]Name: Richard Gliech Business: WoodFyred Website: www.woodfyred.com Instagram: @woodfyredovens[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1704747129654{margin-top: 30px !important;margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]Tell us a little bit about your business… What do you sell… Why is it unique?
I’m selling a compact, affordable, easy-to-use wood-burning outdoor oven made with an upcycled 20-gallon steel drum.
Where did the idea for your business come from, and when did you know it was more than just an idea and worth pursuing as a business?
Years ago, I designed and made a similar oven out of a larger drum. It worked beautifully and I was told many times that I should sell it. For Christmas 2020, my wife and I took a metal-working class at the Generator and made our first smaller oven to give as a present.
[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner text_align=”left”][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/2″][image_with_animation image_url=”13393″ alignment=”center” animation=”None” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/2″][image_with_animation image_url=”13401″ alignment=”center” animation=”None” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1704748810295{margin-top: 30px !important;margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]Do you remember how you heard about Generator’s JumpStart program?
During the class, Alex Hahl mentioned JumpStart, saying that the oven would fit the bill nicely.
What was it about the JumpStart program that made it worth applying to… What were you hoping JumpStart would help you accomplish?
JumpStart was very helpful in clarifying in my mind what I was trying to achieve, as well as defining the identity and mission of my business.
After being accepted, how would you describe your JumpStart program experience… Was there anything particular that stood out, or surprised you?
Overall, it was a lot of fun. There was a nice focus on group dynamics, with real positive energy. It felt like a very safe environment to present our products and ideas to the rest of the group before going public.
How did JumpStart help you grow as a business owner or affect the development of your business? Were there any particular challenges that the JumpStart program helped you to overcome?
JumpStart really got my business on track. In addition to all the practical training I received in the various areas, the assignments we received helped me stay focused on its development. I strongly feel that I achieved results that would otherwise have taken me months or years. One area that I had absolutely no experience with is social media and JumpStart was very helpful in that area. Also, comparing notes and sharing knowledge with other participants was very useful, for example in the choice of an e-commerce platform.
[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner text_align=”left”][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/2″][image_with_animation image_url=”13394″ alignment=”center” animation=”None” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/2″][image_with_animation image_url=”13389″ alignment=”center” animation=”None” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1704748798614{margin-top: 30px !important;margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]Were there things about the Generator community, or the tools available to you, that allowed you to grow your business in ways that might not have been possible otherwise?
The metal shop is central to my business, more specifically the CNC plasma cutter and welding equipment. I also started using the wood shop recently, as well as the laser machine.
Do you have any advice for future JumpStart applicants and/or recipients? Any advice/tips/tricks that you wish someone would have shared with you?
Make sure you take time between classes to complete assignments and make the most of JumpStart. Also, take advantage of the additional training offered on the various shops and equipment.
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1704811765921{margin-top: 30px !important;margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]How are things going with the business today? What’s on the horizon, and where do you hope to be in 5 years?
My business has been growing at a slow and steady pace (it’s still a side gig for me). I’m still doing a lot of initial work (product development, business development, etc.) and hope to be able to scale it up within a year or two.
What’s the most beneficial piece of advice you’ve received during your entrepreneurial journey?
Have fun!
[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner text_align=”left”][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/2″][image_with_animation image_url=”13387″ alignment=”center” animation=”None” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/2″][image_with_animation image_url=”13402″ alignment=”center” animation=”None” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1704812021196{margin-top: 30px !important;margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]Thank you to Richard for sharing his time and thoughts with us! If you’d like to learn more about WoodFyred, you can read more about Richard’s entrepreneurial journey in this Seven Days Story.[/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”Full Width Line” line_thickness=”2″ divider_color=”default”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1704748878228{margin-top: 50px !important;margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]
Are you a maker or entrepreneur with an awesome product or idea? Are you ready to turn that product or idea into a business?
Every year Generator’s JumpStart Program selects up to 10 emerging entrepreneurs to participate in a FREE 12-week business bootcamp. In addition to the 12-week business development program, participants also receive free tool trainings and full-time access to Generator’s shops & community of engineers, developers, crafts professionals, and entrepreneurs.
If you’re looking to take your business to the next level… JumpStart might be what you’re looking for!
[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]Krista Jones is a person of many talents. A veterinarian and ecologist by trade, Krista first discovered Generator while planning her own wedding. She was looking to provide a unique and personalized experience for her guests and was happy to make items herself. So, when she found Generator it was game on!
Krista ended up really enjoying the process and, recognizing that this was a service not currently available in the market, decided to start her business Whimsically You to try and fill the gap.
Though her existing connection with Generator Krista learned about our JumpStart Business Bootcamp. She applied and was accepted, and now we are here, ~ 1 year later, checking in to see how things are going. Continue reading below to learn more about Krista and her business, and whether or not the JumpStart juice is worth the squeeze![/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”Full Width Line” line_thickness=”2″ divider_color=”default”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/2″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”13369″ alignment=”center” animation=”None” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/2″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1704311667191{margin-left: 20px !important;}”]Name: Krista Jones Current Location: Essex, VT Birthplace: Massachusetts Business: Whimsically You Website: www.whimsicallyyou.com Facebook: @whimsicallyyouvt Instagram: @whimsically.you[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1704312051771{margin-top: 30px !important;margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]
Tell us a little bit more about your business… What do you sell… Why is it unique?
My company, Whimsically You, focuses primarily on helping couples to create one-of-a kind weddings that reflect their stories, their passions, and their values. We do this by helping with general event conceptualization and starting with a couple’s unique vision and priorities (rather than automatically following preconceived notions). We can then assist by crafting custom decor elements (e.g., placecards, signage), designing interactive enigmas to bond and entertain their loved ones (think escape-room-like games and challenges), and providing a bespoke rustic photo booth to delight the guests and provide fabulous & candid keepsakes. While our primary focus is on weddings, we do other events as well. To our knowledge, we are the only U.S. company to focus on providing custom wedding puzzle games. More broadly, our focus on bespoke and meaningfully personalized creations means that every event really reflects the individuals behind it.
Where did the idea for your business come from, and when did you know it was more than just an idea and worth pursuing as a business?
I got married in 2022. We saw a gap in the market where there were services we would have hired someone for (like creating a reception table game for us) but couldn’t find anyone that was offering it. I also gained a lot of new skills and discovered just how much I loved embracing my creative and crafty side when preparing for our celebration. However, it was seeing the reaction and response to all of these elements from diverse guests at our wedding that made me realize it might actually be a viable venture!
What was it about the JumpStart program that made it worth applying to… What were you hoping JumpStart would help you accomplish?
I was hoping for a few things – a big one was knowledge about actually starting and running a business, which was totally foreign to me! I expected both new info and reassurance on what I’d already done. I also wanted the accountability of a structured program to help drive progress in a busy time, and the perks of feedback, membership, and training funds!
[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner text_align=”left”][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″][image_with_animation image_url=”13360″ alignment=”center” animation=”None” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1704311745314{margin-top: 30px !important;margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]After being accepted, how would you describe your JumpStart program experience… Was there anything particular that stood out, or surprised you?
JumpStart was a fantastic and somewhat frenzied experience! It definitely felt a bit overwhelming to be tackling so much with the business while trying to balance all of my other obligations. However, Emily and our guest experts provided lots of great foundational knowledge in a wide range of areas and in a supportive way. The community component was a fantastic element that I hadn’t thought about as much in advance. Just having other folks in a similar stage to bounce ideas off of, commiserate with, and rely on for accountability was huge.
How did JumpStart help you grow as a business owner or affect the development of your business? Were there any particular challenges the JumpStart program helped you to overcome?
Participating in JumpStart provided a lot of initial structure and momentum to get the business off of the ground and gave me the confidence that it could really be a thing (along with normalizing the fact that none of us 100% knew what we were doing). I actually found my first paid client through the public Pitch Night event at the end of JumpStart! And it was awesome to feel supported by Generator and also part of the bigger community by having our photo booth at Art Hop this year!
Were there things about the Generator community, or the tools available to you, that allowed you to grow your business in ways that might not have been possible otherwise?
I don’t think the business would be at all possible without Generator! I rely heavily on your tools in a number of the shops, and the ability to use a variety of modalities really increases our flexibility and ability to design to specific needs for the event. Yet, even if I only used the laser (which I use the most), it would be extremely challenging to create a setup of similar caliber at home – between cost, space, and safety components! In addition, the community is super supportive and inspiring! It’s a great environment to promote creativity and to get trouble-shooting help.
Do you have any advice for future JumpStart applicants and/or recipients? Any advice/tips/tricks that you wish someone would have shared with you?
As much as possible, really try to carve out the space to devote as much time as possible to working on your biz during this time! Be prepared that you may find it hard to work ON the biz while also working creatively IN the biz. Give yourself some grace and know that you probably won’t be able to do everything you’d like during this time.
How are things going with the business today, what’s on the horizon, and where do you hope to be in 5 years?
I’m pretty excited about the future of Whimsically You! We’ve had some great events this year and have some bookings for 2024 that we’re really excited about. I’m leaving my current position in May and plan to focus on the business full-time at that point. In 5 years, we would love to be in a position where my husband can also join the biz full-time, as well as expanding the kinds of puzzling experiences that we create.
What’s the most beneficial piece of advice you’ve received during your entrepreneurial journey?
I think, as someone with perfectionist tendencies, the mantra of “Progress over perfection!” has been super useful. It’s scary to put things out there, often before we think they’re fully ready or perfect. We could spend another year making them 3% better…but we need to keep making forward progress and know that we will improve as we go!
Are you a maker or entrepreneur with an awesome product? Are you ready to turn that product or idea into a business?
Every year Generator’s JumpStart Program selects up to 10 emerging entrepreneurs to participate in a FREE 12-week business bootcamp. In addition to the 12-week business development program, participants also receive free tool trainings and full-time access to Generator’s shops & community of engineers, developers, crafts professionals, and entrepreneurs.
If you’re looking to take your business to the next level… JumpStart might be what you’re looking for!
