Meet Jennifer Morales.
President & CEO of Mixicles.
"The startup ecosystem in Cincinnati is something truly special."
Mixicles produces botanically infused ice designed to naturally flavor and chill any spirit, wine, beer, or other beverage.
Q: What makes Cincinnati a great place to start a business?
A: The startup ecosystem in Cincinnati is something truly special. I didn't quite appreciate this when we launched Mixicles; Jason and I just happened to live here. But from our earliest days, we have benefitted immensely from being rooted in this hub of entrepreneurship. People have gone out of their way to encourage and support us, including connecting us to others who can help with particular needs and challenges as they arise. Being affiliated with Findlay Kitchen, in particular, was an amazing catalyst for our business.
Q: How did a grant from Main Street Ventures impact you and your business?
A: The grant will allow us to semi-automate our manufacturing process, which will enable us to increase production speed and volume while ensuring consistency.
Q: What does a typical day in your life look like?
A: It usually starts with a cup of coffee and a review of/responses to comments on our social media. I then check on orders received since last evening, set those up to be filled/processed, and update our books and records. From there it's emailing and calling people about a myriad of things -- marketing, advertising, events, recipe, and product development, making sure we're keeping up our inventory to meet demand, etc. Later in the date, I typically meet up with Jason (who still has a day job) to fill local orders, prepare shipments, and produce more Mixicles at Findlay Kitchen.
Q: What is a lesson you've learned that has shaped your work?
A: So much of our growth and initial success is attributable to connections we've made in the community -- meeting just the right person at just the right time, and following up on serendipitous introductions.
Q: What's next for Mixicles?
A: We'd love to grow our presence in the hospitality space -- event venues, stadiums, theatres, etc. around Cincinnati.
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