Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage, but not sure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Matt Kahn, president of Big Ditch Brewing Company, based in Buffalo, NY, USA.
Tell us all about your business...
Big Ditch Brewing Company is a craft beer brewery located in downtown Buffalo, NY. We are dedicated to providing quality, delicious, innovative, and drinkable craft beers to Western New York and beyond.
What's your background and motivation to grow as a solopreneur?
My background is in the biotech/pharmaceutical industry. I started working on a business plan in 2011 because I always wanted to own my own business. I like beer a lot, too, so that helps, haha. I'm motivated to make high-quality products and experiences for our customers. Nothing gets me more excited than imagining a new beer and then making it happen.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Winning best craft brewery in NYS in 2016 at the Tap NY festival and making the best selling craft beer in Western NY, Hayburner IPA.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a solopreneur?
The time spent, I've averaged over 70 hours a week of work since the business started, and that can be hard on my family and me. It's rewarding to work, but I crash pretty hard at the end of the day.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
There are three things you'll need to be successful: hard work, skill, and luck. Hard work is the most important - you can overcome mistakes you make with hard work, and if you spend the time to be prepared to be successful every day, you'll put yourself in situations where luck will be to your advantage.
Where can people find you?
Website: https://www.bigditchbrewing.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bigditchbrewing
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigditchbrewing
Twitter: https://twitter.com/bigditchbrewing
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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