Many books on startups and business talk about how there are right and wrong reasons for starting a business. So, we asked a handful of successful founders about their reasons and the thought-process behind starting their business.

Augustine Turner

My thought process behind starting Mentors4Minorities was deeply rooted in my own journey. Having aged out of the foster care system and faced the challenges of being a single mother, I knew firsthand the obstacles that many underrepresented youth encounter. I wanted to create something that not only provided guidance and resources but also empowered young people to break through barriers and build a future beyond their circumstances. Read More>>

Maribeth Graham

Starting Sole Inspiration was a very personal and purposeful journey for me. I had been volunteering in the community for years and was just starting to get more involved in nonprofit leadership, including serving on local boards. I’ve always believed in the power of service and community, but I hadn’t yet found the right outlet to make a broader impact—until I met the Wise family. Read More>>

Allie Cline

Of course one of the most typical answers, I wanted to be my own boss. With photography too I knew I could make something of it. My art along the way was going to be a way for me to lay the groundwork for my kids to have something to show that their mother accomplished. While I am a photographer my goal is to be so much more within the industry that I can build my own little empire. Read More>>

Dylan Carter

I work a full-time day job, as well as gig delivery a few nights on weekdays as an additional revenue generator. The time I have leftover is spent with the intentions of practice and trying new ideas, that develops into more concrete ideas when I am satisfied with what is being created. I leave my weekend days open for rest and family time, weekend nights for local shows. The balance has been easier since making a plan for my intentions, and leaving room to adapt that schedule for more work or more relaxation. Read More>>