Tag: Founder Story
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Meet NYU alum Levent Tuysuzoglu, Founder of Hazelicious
Tell us about your company: Hazelicious is on a mission to break the hazelnut out of its shell and show the world how delicious and versatile it can be—a natural choice for non-dairy alternatives, nut butters, and much more. What inspired you to start your business? Passing of my grandparents who owned a small hazelnut…
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Meet UCSB alum Daphne Subar, Founder of Subarzsweets
Tell us about your company: Subarzsweets specializes in making gifting meaningful and intentional again. We ship a beautifully curated box of delicious Subarz (a cross between a cookie and biscotti) anywhere in the United States accompanied by a handwritten note. What inspired you to start your business? My three daughters inspired and challenged me to…
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Meet Northwestern alum Lynette Kruk, Founder of LIXMIX
Tell us about your company: LIXMIX is a premium ready-to-drink espresso brand inspired by global travel, petite desserts, and the joy of small indulgences. We create bold, dessert-inspired coffee flavors like Strawberry Kiss and Dulce de Leche in sleek petite cans designed to feel playful, elevated, and effortlessly chic. Our mission is to bring café-level…
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Meet Michigan State alum: Jack Joseph, Co-Founder of RMBR
Tell us about your company: RMBR (pronounced “remember”) is a Chicago-based functional beverage company reimagining the role of kombucha in everyday life. We create crushable, sparkling probiotic teas designed for modern rituals – moments of daily unwind, social connection, and intentional living. While traditional kombucha can be overly acidic and polarizing, RMBR takes a flavor-first…
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Meet NYU alum: Tatyana Jones Founder of DEFI Snacks
Tell us about your company: DEFI Snacks is rewriting the rules of better-for-you snacking. Founded by NYU Stern MBA ’15 alumna Tatyana Jones, DEFI is a breakthrough snack brand built for people who refuse to compromise — bold flavor, clean ingredients, and a nutrition profile that actually delivers. We’re not another “healthy” snack hiding sugar…
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Meet USC alum: Ashley Whalen, Founder of Chara Greek Frozen Yogurt
Tell us about your company: Chara is a better-for-you Greek frozen yogurt brand reimagining indulgence with clean, high-protein, probiotic-rich pints made from real ingredients. What inspired you to start your business? During my senior year at USC, I noticed my roommates making Greek yogurt bowls for dessert and saw the frozen aisle wasn’t meeting the…
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Meet UCLA alum: Kian Nikzad, Founder Ancient Sun
Tell us about your company: Ancient Sun sells balanced beverages called date shakes at natural food retailers. They are made with simple ingredients: dates, nuts, and spices. Each of the three flavors is inspired from a different region of the world. What inspired you to start your business? I’ve always had an interest in ‘going…
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Meet USC alum Annie Wiener, Co-Founder Hyli Drops
Tell us about your company: Hyli is the first ever electrolyte and vitamin infused cocktail mixer drop, with 0 calories, 0 sugar, and all natural ingredients. Designed to replace sugary, hangover-inducing mixers, Hyli transforms any spirit into a clean, functional cocktail that supports your wellness goals – without sacrificing fun or flavor. Available in Margarita,…
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Meet USC alum Isabel Washington, Founder Laurel’s Coffee
Tell us about your company: Laurel’s is the first 100% A2 dairy ready-to-drink latte company. What inspired you to start your business? Looking at the canned coffee category and didn’t feel like anyone was speaking to the gen z female consumer, the largest consumer of coffee. What are your proudest achievements so far? We’re launching…
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Meet MSU alum: Lindsey Fredrick, Founder of Tart
Tell us about your company: Tart is an organic healthy lifestyle beverage focused around tart cherry and mineral water, prioritizing organic ingredients. Packed with vitamins & antioxidants, Tart may help reduce inflammation & support muscle recovery. Enjoy Tart daily for a refreshing boost on your overall health! What inspired you to start your business? Growing…
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