Alumni Graduate Spotlight
Nicole Meggerson de Martinez - Cohort 2
How has your business developed since LHS?
We started the program with a dream to open a construction business. Since completing Launch, we have grown significantly in terms of profitability and capacity to handle large projects. We have become much more visible as a local contractor and have delivered dozens of successful projects.
How did LHS help your business?
Our graduation from Launch Holly Springs has given us not only a sound business foundation, but also access to a ready-made support community. We regularly connect with our Launch family to network, get feedback and ideas on business concerns, and tap into business development programs and opportunities. Lastly, the Launch community continues to support us through word-of-mouth referrals.
What are the lessons/key things you learned and would be valuable to Cohort members?
We learned that regular networking is the most powerful form of marketing - and has been the most cost-effective way to grow our business locally. Jon Harol, one of the first guest speakers, emphasized the importance of managing debt. That very important lesson has been an essential key to weathering the leaner times during our 4.5 years in business.
Jim & Amy Bishop - Cohort 6
How has your business developed since LHS?
Launch has provided us with a wonderful community of entrepreneurs at all stages of their business across many industries. Launch has also provided us with tools and resources to plan, prepare and execute the vision for our business. The Launch program is an equalizer for small business owners as it gives them the tools and resources to optimize their ability to succeed.
How did LHS help your business?
Launch helped us accelerate our growth and gave us the confidence to move forward with our vision and make it a reality!
What are the lessons/key things you learned and would be valuable to Cohort members?
The quickest way to grow your business is to grow your revenue, Launch can help you work through how to grow your current revenue and how to add new revenue to your business model.
Kat Hourani - Cohort 5
How has your business developed since LHS?
My Business went from being operated by a solo cleaner (myself) to a full staffed company. The company contains 13 employees operating on daily basis.
How did LHS help your business?
LHS helped expose my business by providing opportunities to meet and network with different Cohort graduates as well as the providence of a mentor that helped guide me and my business to the right direction.
What are the lessons/key things you learned and would be valuable to Cohort members?
1. I learned the value of networking. In today's business world, it`s more about your network than your net worth.
2. I learned that if you provide overwhelming value - honest value to your customers, they`ll have no other choice but to stay with you and refer you.
Tasha Jones - Cohort 4
How has your business developed since LHS?
LHS gave me the practical knowledge of running a business. Creating an actual business plan and financial plan and going through it with feedback were essential tools in the foundation.
How did LHS help your business?
Launch helped us accelerate our growth and gave us the confidence to move forward with our vision and make it a reality!
What are the lessons/key things you learned and would be valuable to Cohort members?
The homework assignments are filled with so much valuable information. Listen, take notes, and ask questions, and ask for feedback- these are key tools to help you with your business. The more time you put into learning and applying the knowledge in building your business, you'll definitely reap the benefits.
Ariana Nester - Cohort 5
How has your business developed since LHS?
When I started LHS Remedy Cocktail Company was just an idea, but before the program was complete I was ready to launch my products. Since I launched my brand and products in January 2022 we have grown to serve over 80 bars, restaurants, distilleries, and retail spaces and have shipped to almost all of the contiguous United States. I continue to see excellent growth in our second year of business and I am started to plan for having our own production and fulfillment space.
How did LHS help your business?
LHS gave me the confidence in my business plan to get started and the tools to help me make important decisions along the way for a healthy growing business.
What are the lessons/key things you learned and would be valuable to Cohort members?
Learning the importance of setting aside time to work on my business and not just in my business was a key lesson. The value of networking, collaborating, and giving back to my community as I grow has also been integral to my success.