Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Stacey Bowles, founder of Smart Locavore, located in Drayton, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
SmartLocavore.com is a website that connects consumers directly with Farmers & Growers for local food and agriculture items in your area. Started in January 2021, It has been growing steadily, and listings are being added throughout North America. Oh, and it's free for everyone to use! All it takes is an email address to sign up. You can find everything from local produce, meat products, flowers, handmade items, and lots more!
Tell us about yourself
During the pandemic, when grocery store shelves were empty, I knew that you could find the essentials from local growers, but there just didn't seem to be a good source available. I was born and raised on a beef farm, so I understand how food is grown and the passion and hard work involved. Smartlocavore.com was created to bridge the gap between Farmers and Consumers. More people want quality products, and they want to understand how their food is grown.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I've had both Farmers and Consumers tell me what a great idea Smart Locavore is, especially now that social media platforms, such as Facebook, limit the sale of animal products like meat, dairy, and eggs. Just knowing that I'm working on something that benefits people is incredibly rewarding.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Smart Locavore is still very much in its infancy. It is incredibly difficult in the beginning stages to get the word out and gain awareness. But staying aligned to your goals and continuing working towards them, taking small steps each day, helps tremendously.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Clearly define your goals so that you can take steps each day to reach them.
- Align yourself with like-minded people to help you get through the tough days.
- Failures are lessons. Keep failing until it works!
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Support your local Famers & Growers. Buy local and eat healthily.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.smartlocavore.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SmartLocavore
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smartlocavore/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacey-bowles-0235571ba/
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.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.
