Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in local food distribution, but not sure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Grace Mandarano, the founder of 100km Foods Inc. A local food distributor based in Canada.
Tell us all about your business...
We are an award-winning local food distributor allowing chefs and home cooks to know where their food comes from.
What's your background and motivation to grow as a business owner?
I decided to try and earn a living in a new type of capitalism; one that promotes partnership, sustainability, and benefit for all.
As an entrepreneur, what does success ultimately mean to you?
100km Foods is among the 3 largest and oldest local food hubs in North America. We are at the forefront of creating an alternative food system where eaters know who & where their food comes from, and all partners benefit from the value chain.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being an entrepreneur?
Everything. LOL. It takes a lot of drive, hard work, perseverance, and thick skin to keep at it every day and make your business thrive.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run or grow a small business today?
1) Know what you're good at, and more importantly, what you're not good at. Then find partners/staff/providers to do the stuff that isn't your strength. This is key.
2) Know your numbers. Find a great bookkeeper, reconcile your accounts monthly and review your financials on a monthly basis so you can make adjustments continually. Choose KPIs based on the type/size/age of the business and measure them regularly.
3) Know why you're running your business, and remain laser focused on that WHY. Make sure you continually use that lens for all decisions you make in your business.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Entrepreneurship is rewarding, but it is not to be entered into lightly. It is challenging, it requires daily, sustained effort, and it carries risk that being employed does not. I don't feel like I could go back to being an employee, but I would also caution anyone who thinks there is a magic formula to follow to create a successful business. Making your business successful happens day to day, moment to moment, decision to decision.
Where can people find you online?
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as an entrepreneur or business coach 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.