Connect Who or what is your inspiration in business?

My biggest inspiration is everyday entrepreneurs who start with very little but build something meaningful for their community. I grew up believing that creativity and hard work can open doors. As a food scientist and culinary instructor, I’ve always loved experimenting with flavors and sharing that excitement with others. Building Trilo Coffee is my way of turning that passion into something people can experience and enjoy together.

How do you stay motivated?

I stay motivated by remembering why I started. I want to build something of my own that creates joy for people and opportunity for the future. Every event, every new recipe, and every customer interaction reminds me that progress happens step by step. Entrepreneurship isn’t always easy, but seeing people smile when they discover a new flavor or try something unexpected keeps me pushing forward.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Winning $25,000 would help me take Trilo Coffee to the next level. I would invest in equipment, expand production of our handcrafted syrup line, and improve our mobile coffee setup so we can serve more people at farmers markets and community events. It would also allow me to scale packaging so customers can take our flavors home. This funding would help turn a growing passion project into a sustainable business.