Join host Jen Blandos on Women on the Rise as she sits down with Aya Assaf, co-founder of Koala Picks, a thriving healthy snack brand. Aya shares her inspiring journey from humble beginnings to rapid growth and success in just three years. In this episode, they explore the challenges of entrepreneurship, the transformative impact of the pandemic, and the intricacies of funding a food tech startup. Discover valuable insights into marketing strategies for a nutrition-focused business and Aya's vision for the future of Koala Picks.
Episode Highlights:
- Navigating Diverse Backgrounds: Learn how Aya Assaf and her team, including three founders from Qualtrics with varied backgrounds, overcame challenges in the food business to create healthier breakfast options for children.
- Pandemic-Driven Transformation: Explore how the pandemic not only impacted Koala Picks but also opened doors to new categories, inspiring Aya to reflect on her business goals and creativity.
- Funding Challenges and Lessons: Gain insights into the hurdles of securing funding for a food tech startup, including dealing with investor hesitations. Discover the importance of understanding when to stop and how much control to relinquish during investment rounds.
- Smart Funding Strategies: Delve into different funding options for startups, including insights on loans versus equity. Hear advice from venture capitalists and learn how to make the right financial decisions for your business's long-term growth.
- Effective Marketing for Nutrition-Focused Businesses: Understand the significance of aligning messaging and communication within your team for business growth. Explore Koala Picks' expansion into schools in Dubai, focusing on providing healthier options and meeting municipal food standards.
- Inspiring Growth: Discover how Koala Picks has made a positive impact by providing healthier school lunches, now serving eight schools and inspiring others to follow suit.
Tune in to this episode for a dose of inspiration and valuable entrepreneurial wisdom from Aya Assaf, a trailblazing female founder in the healthy snack industry.
