Small Business and Startup Stories DSM

Eric Engelmann discusses the start of ISA Ventures and raising capital to help Iowa-based companies grow.

Velorosa Cycling is Greater Des Moines’ (DSM’s) local shop for women’s cycling wear. From jerseys, tanks and shorts to face masks, rubber jewelry and other accessories, Velorosa has it all. Owners Kim Hopkins and Lisa Carponelli join Startup Stories DSM to discuss the business with the podcast’s host, Mike Colwell.

Chad Williams’ passion is faith-based nonprofits. From his time as a webmaster with a ministry nonprofit to his jump to startup owner bringing marketing services to faith-based nonprofits, Williams keeps his mission front and center. Five Q provides solutions that lead to higher website engagement, improved donations and an overall greater digital impact. 

Pernell Cezar Jr. is co-founder and CEO of BLK & Bold Specialty Beverages, known for coffee and tea manufacturing that pledges 5% of its profits to programs for youth to develop professionally and fight youth homelessness. The company works with 14 youth pledge partners across the country in its effort to prioritize purpose.

BLK & Bold Specialty Beverages is the first black-owned, nationally distributed coffee brand, and it’s headquartered in Greater Des Moines (DSM). The BLK & Bold story has been featured in Fortune, GQ, People, ChowHound, Afrotechand more, while the company became a best-selling coffee brand for Amazon and continues to highlight social issues for at-risk youth as it grows. 

Matt Ostanik, Greater Des Moines (DSM) entrepreneur, speaks with Greater Des Moines Partnership Executive Director of Entrepreneurial Initiatives Mike Colwell about connecting people and businesses who are willing to give with nonprofits that need additional help. This is the mission of his latest startup, Given. Previously, Ostanik founded three other companies: FunnelWise, a sales and marketing software company that assists in improving marketing ROI; Submittal Exchange, an SaaS company that serves the commercial construction industry; and Charette Venture Group, a consulting and investment company for architecture and design firms.

Nick Eltjes and Noah Loffredo share their experience starting TradeLabs in Greater Des Moines (DSM).

Sul Huq describes his journey as an entrepreneur and the growth of DSM-startup One World Supplies.

Greg Bailey discusses Denim Social, how he transitioned his startup team and his forecast for the future.