Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Mona Sharma, Founder of IQ Foods International Inc., located in Los Angeles, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Xicama™ is LA's next plant-based superfood brand. The first-to-market food and beverage company focuses on the immune-boosting, pre-biotic, and healing powers of the root vegetable Jicama. Offering a stronger sense of science and fun. Broadening understanding that gut health is a key driver to overall health and well-being.
Tell us about yourself
I work with high-profile clients all around the world, including Will Smith and his family, Julianne Hough, and Property Brothers star Jonathon Scott. They are among the celebrities that, through my guidance, have been able to attain a healthy lifestyle that suits their need and goals. I also have a recurring role on the Facebook series Red Table Talk, which profiles my work with Will Smith, as well as the entire Smith family's healing journey.
Growing up living in an Ashram, I have seen firsthand the power of food and mindfulness to heal. My approach is rooted in this philosophy and inspires my research into the gut microbiome and its impact on our health and happiness.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
We were the official beverage of Coachella 2019 and were meant to be for 2020 (COVID). We also were called one of the most innovative brands at Expo West and recently got picked up by Erewhon, one of the key retail destinations for the health and wellness community.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Capital raising is the hardest and daily challenge. Balancing running your business and family and the cash demands for the beverage industry are key challenges that we face every day. You are competing against companies with big budgets and lots of cash, so the strategy is key to staying alive and thriving.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Set a clear north star.
- Make sure you pay yourself something.
- Smart money: make sure the money you raise is smart and has some additional benefit. Quite money is fine, but make sure each investor brings something to the table.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://xicamalife.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MonaSharmaWellness
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/monasharma/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/monasharma___
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mona-sharma-26945818/
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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