Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Cynthia Duran, Founder of Xinca Foods, located in Arlington, WA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I'm in the business of making frozen Salvadorian food. My customers are anyone who is open to trying new foods.
Tell us about yourself
I've had this idea for a long time that I wanted to bring to life. I just never thought I could make it happen, but one day I told my family and partner about my idea, and they thought I should pursue that dream. So I left my job and focused on my business 100%. What motivates me every day is the support of my loved ones. Sometimes I want to give up, but seeing their love and support gets me through the tough times. I've also invested all my life savings, so I don't have a choice.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment has been that I, a Salvadorian girl who grew up in south central LA, have been able to represent her culture at the biggest food shows in the United States. In addition, I learned last year that I'm the first Salvadorian frozen food line in the American market. Little accomplishments like that help me keep going.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
That's a funny question since many hardships come with being a business owner. The business takes priority over everything and everyone, and if you want to go on holiday but a fire comes along before departing, you need to cancel that holiday and deal with your fires. Your romantic relationships are also affected and your everyday life.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Self-fund, save as much money as possible to keep funding your business. Starting a business is a costly undertaking.
- Be prepared for hardship.
- Make sure you want to pursue this dream because it will be hard and turbulent.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://xincafoods.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xincafoods/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xinca-foods-llc/
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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