Helping People Live More Sustainably

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jeffrey Delkin, CEO of Bambu, located in Portland, OR, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

We are a renewable ideas company built around our brand, Bambu. We design, produce, and market daily-use products for enjoying food - preparing, serving, and eating. Made from plant-based, renewable resources. Our primary resource is certified organic bamboo. Our customers are discerning people who appreciate natural materials, good design, and quality craftsmanship.

Tell us about yourself

We became enamored with bamboo living and working in Asia. The material is used in all facets of life, from structural to ceremonial, to daily life. We bring a Western design sensibility to an age-old material. My partner and I decided to leave our corporate jobs and start our own business shaped around our personal values and what we saw as a need to provide people with alternatives to plastic.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Longevity and integrity. We have maintained a healthy business for over 20 years. We employ a team in Portland, Oregon, and Shanghai, China, and support dozens of local craftspeople. We have stayed true to our mission of only working with renewables. Also recognized as a B Corp-certified business is a source of pride.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

Being comfortable working with uncertainty. Because our business expands continents and cultures, we have to navigate the waters of supply chain issues, geopolitical tensions, weather and climate (we're part farmers), currencies, and the complexity of working with natural materials.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

Find something you deeply care about, and make it your purpose. Because when problems arise, and they will, you will have the conviction to overcome the challenges. Treat people well, and be kind. Don't believe everything you think. Have an open mind to seeing and hearing differently.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.bambuhome.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bambuhome
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bambuliving/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/bambuhome
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bambuhome/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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