These Women Speed-Pitched Their Businesses and Won $5K Grants from McDonald's

Last month, we gathered in CHI-town for our Create & Cultivate conference. Apart from hearing inspiring panel discussions, networking with fellow boss ladies, and getting career advice from new mentors, our guests had the ability to pitch their entrepreneurial business ventures to McDonald’s. The McDonald’s mini conference room activation at C&C Chicago was a huge hit amongst our guests, especially the ones who had a pitch ready to take their business to the next level. But why did they pitch their big idea to McDonald’s?

With 90% of McDonald’s restaurants being owned and operated by franchisees, McDonald's runs on entrepreneurial spirit and understands what it takes to build a business. McDonald's brought this spirit to C&C Chicago offering conference guests a $5,000 grant to the business with the strongest pitch providing a clear vision on how these funds would help them achieve the next phase for their dream.

Well, there was a major plot twist at the event when McDonald’s ended up choosing two grant winners—Curve Shop, a seasonal plus-size pop-up consignment sale, and We Are Boss Moms, a platform for working moms to thrive—both amazing business ideas with a strong vision for the future of their companies. We caught up with the winners to learn the ins and outs of what went into their McDonald’s pitch and learned some key advice that any entrepreneurial business woman can use. Ahead, the founders of both businesses tell all.

Curve Shop

Tell us a little about your business…
Curve Shop is a seasonal plus-size pop-up consignment sale that was created out of a need to provide a larger range of sizes at an IRL shopping experience. So many of our plus friends struggled to find their size in stores and usually would end up having to buy multiple sizes online before they’d find something that fit perfectly. What’s left are items they can’t return, a cluttered closet and the shopping process starts all over again as soon as a new outfit is needed. We wanted to put all this hard work to good use, by creating a place where women could shop in a body positive space, where everything is a size 12 and up and items are curated to be flattering because another plus-size stylish babe took the time to find and love each item.

Each of our sales usually has over 50 consigners who tag and price their own items, get to shop the sale before it’s open to the public and make a percentage of every item they sell. We also always partner with a local non-profit and to date have donated over 1,500 pounds of clothing to help women in need.  It’s a huge win-win for everyone! We’ve received feedback that many women not only find a whole new wardrobe at 85% less than what they would buy retail, they also make new friends and feel better about their bodies after they leave our sale. One of our favorite comments was from a shopper who said she had never had seen so many items that actually fit her size 16 body in one place before!

What went in to your pitch to McDonald's?

We talked about our vision for Curve Shop ahead of time and decided who would be doing the majority of the talking and who would be answering follow up questions. We made sure to have clear answers on how a sale operates, data we have gathered about our target audience, research on our competitors and personal stories on why we thought a body-positive shopping event is so needed.

What do you plan to do with your $5K grant from McDonald's?

Currently, Curve Shop is only popping up in Madison, WI but we have been wanting to expand for a while. With the grant from McDonald’s we’ll be able to grow to Chicago and Milwaukee in 2019 and then hopefully both the east and west coasts soon after that!

What are the challenges you face as a small business owner?

The biggest challenge we’ve faced owning a small business is that we’re doing something new that we haven’t seen done before. There isn’t a mentor in our field to help us navigate growth and business decisions. So far, running Curve Shop has required a lot of trial and error, learning as we go and pivoting when necessary.  

What did you learn from pitching your business in this timed experience?

It’s important to deeply care about and know your business inside and out. It’s stressful to pitch in a time crunch, especially when tricky questions can be asked about your business on the fly. If you’re passionate about what you’re doing, it’s so much easier to reply honestly and without stumbling for an answer because you can speak from the heart. In a scenario like the McDonald’s speed pitch that we did, we only had 3 minutes to speak and then 4 minutes for questions. We found it worked best to stick with the “big picture” to get the judges to see our vision. We knew if we came with too many statistics or facts to share we wouldn’t have enough time to say everything and would have left feeling defeated. Instead we did our best to paint a picture of what the Curve Shop experience is and let the judges ask about the specifics. We kept calm and focused on something other than the time ticking away by making eye contact, reading our audience and making a genuine connection.

Where can women go to support your business?  

We are on Instagram and Facebook at curveshopconsignment and our website is www.curveshopconsignment.com. We are looking for awesome plus babes to partner with so please reach out if you are interested in a Curve Shop popping up in your city!

We Are Boss Mom

Tell us a little about your non-for-profit…

Modern mothers - who work at home, stay at home, own their own businesses, work in corporate America, etc. - aren’t equipped with resources, support, direction and community after becoming a mom, leading to not knowing or pursuing their purpose, increased guilt and pressure to “do it all.”  Moreover, many corporations aren’t offering environments, flexible schedules, benefits or resources to support working moms and thus, women are leaving the workforce. This is a clear problem. Thankfully, some companies have made progress but not fast enough and not significant enough.

This matters because the more women that are supported, specific to their needs and their familiar needs, we see a positive growth to the global economy.

According to Forbes:

• 28% of the decline was attributed to lack of family-friendly workplace policies

• Half of the earnings gap women experience can be made up for with parental leave and childcare policies

• In the United States childcare accounts for the single largest household expense in many regions, which leads to decline in workforce participation

• The United States is the only developed country without a universal paid parental leave policy

There are thousands of data points pointing to the positive impact every aspect of the world has when women work.  When they work well. Not for a paycheck, but for a purpose. We believe that if we can create an ecosystem of tangible programs - on and offline -  that directly support mothers, we can make a dent in furthering the global economy. We can keep women in the workplace. We can keep families together. We can redefine what it means to be a working mom, offering purpose that becomes the foundation of furthering growth where it matters most.

WE ARE BOSS MOM (WABM) is a 501c3 non-for-profit platform for working moms to thrive. We are a creative incubator for mothers who work, entrepreneurs, work -at-home-moms, business owners and corporate employees all coming together for a common purpose—workforce development for mothers.

Our focus is to create an open and inspirational place to gather, experiment, and foster connections from a wide-range of disciplines. We share a common desire to drive innovation and support working families by providing opportunities for both organizations to thrive and mothers to contribute to the overall vision of how we rewrite the modern workplace. We’re a movement for a new generation of mothers who are redefining the meaning of work-life balance, parenting and purpose.

WABM’s main objective is to support and actively help 5,000 working moms by 2020 to achieve their potential by defining and living out their purpose.  #purposedevelopment

What went in to your pitch to McDonald's?

As an entrepreneur I strive everyday to promote We Are Boss Mom with conviction and excitement towards everyone I meet because it’s my passion. For the past year, I have made it a point to connect with three new people a week with the goal of building genuine connections and learning from individuals who I might not just “run into” within my daily routine. After countless blind conversations and lots of weekly conversations you become good at reading people and clearly identifying your objective and goals in a short amount of time. You really only have about 2 minutes to make an impression.   

Even though I knew I had 7 minutes to “pitch”, I made sure that I did not speak more than about half my allotted time to give an opportunity for their questions and feedback. It’s key to always make sure you have time to learn about the person/org you’re “pitching” to and see how you can intertwine their objectives into your own.

Oh, and one more thing. Make sure you’re passionate about your cause! People may not remember everything you say, but they will remember your passion.

What do you plan to do with your $5K grant from McDonald's?

We focus on #purposedevelopment for mothers; leveraging resources from our B2B partners to provide accessibility, education and resources for scaling mother-owned businesses. Boss Mom Mercado focuses on moms who run their own business (side hustles) and we wanted to create a hands-on experience tacking multiple aspects of scaling or growing their online business. The goal is to give local mother-owned businesses the opportunity to experience a brick and mortar location while inspiring the community and encouraging the Shop Small movement supported by progressive retail outlets such as Simon Malls. The top mother-owned retailer that makes the best number of sales combined with bringing the most fans wins a POP UP SHOP location within a Simon Mall.  

We just successfully launched the first Boss Mom Mercado in Miami and we are looking to expand this competition nationally. The professional development component of the Boss Mom Mercado is the mandatory Boss Mom Bootcamp that the competing vendors must go through to compete. In this Bootcamp they learn merchandising, retail leasing and marketing techniques; but we wanted to take it a step further and provide hands-on practice with tools and methods available to solve problems using data science. By teaching these mompreneurs the benefits of computer science and data analytics we are providing equal opportunity to learn an important skill which is the largest and fastest growing field and job listing in the U.S. This field, which will reach 2.7 million, is also among the highest paid professionals, with salaries averaging over 113% more than average salaries for all job postings.

To ensure full support among the mothers on this journey, we will provide on-site childcare and tutors to assist during boot camp hours—so that moms can feel supported and assisted during the course. We are excited to announce the expansion for Boss Mom Mercado/ Bootcamp in select cities starting in 2019 thanks to the McDonalds grant.

What did you learn from pitching your business in this timed experience?

I learned to never underestimate yourself, and always show up early! I had a noon time slot for the pitch and when I walked by early to ask a question they had an opening immediately at 10am, so I jumped on the opportunity to get the pitch completed in the morning. I really think it was one of my advantages, I felt fresh and still had energy. I think if I would have waited till my allotted time “during lunch” I might not have had the right amount of energy and spontaneity.

Where can women go to support your business?  

So, we made something cool. We made a We Are Boss Mom kinda bag. This limited edition handbag is on pre-order and 100% of proceeds will be going towards taking Boss Mom Mercado nationwide and empowering our Mompreneur community of small business owners. it was never meant to be just a clear bag.

For $45 100% proceeds go to bringing opportunities for working mothers. At WABM we want to make sure that all mothers have a voice and  benefit from the programs, data research and relationships we develop. We aim to empower and ignite your Boss Mom spirit. You are a Boss Mom. But together, WE ARE BOSS MOM.

Contact Info:

• Website: wearebossmom.com

• Email: hello@wearebossmom.com

• Instagram: @wearebossmom

MORE FROM OUR BLOG

We Asked Entrepreneurs Their Best West Coast Vacation Reccomendations to Unplug

We took a pit stop from our WorkParty tour to continue enjoying San Francisco. WorkParty and Alaska Airlines threw a dinner party for some of our favorite Bay Area entrepreneurs at The Progress in SF. The Hawaii-themed soiree was everyone’s Instagram dream, and gave guests the perfect island vibes for unwinding and enjoying a night out in the city. As we all know, entrepreneurs are some of the hardest working people in the game, and there’s not always room to unwind and unplug. So, we had to ask the ladies in attendance what their favorite West Coast spot is to get out of the office and unplug.

“If you come to California, you have to go to Big Sur. You get the best of everything, including the ocean, mountains, hikes, rustic feels.”

“You need to go to Seattle in September or October. The light becomes golden and beautiful, and it’s the most beautiful time, it’s not too cold, and it doesn’t rain.”

“You can’t go to LA, without going to Venice Beach. You’ve got to hit up the boardwalk, and not only for sightseeing.”

“Ojai is so charming and beautiful.”

“If you need relaxation, you need to go to Palm Springs.”

“LA all day!”

“Go glamping in Mendocino. There’s no signal out there so you’re forced to unplug.”

Alaska Air was also kind enough to provide guests with roundtrip travel vouchers for anywhere they’d like to go. As if they already didn't get to feel like they were on vacation for one night, they’re now able to enjoy the real deal.

Have you already snagged a copy of WorkParty the book? If not, what are you waiting for? Purchase the book here.

MORE FROM OUR BLOG

How This SoCal Mom & Influencer Stays Healthy from the Inside Out

We all know how important it is to have a consistent beauty routine, while also practicing self-care. While the two can mean very different things for all of us, it’s important to take care of ourselves from the inside out. We all love massages (yes, please), baths, and some overall “me” time, but what we’re putting into our body matters too. We’ve partnered with HUM Nutrition and some of our favorite influencers in the wellness space, to chat a little bit about self-care and the importance of getting those proper nutrients. Gotta live long and strong, ladies!

Finding the right balance for anything is tough and especially so with supplements - it can take trial and error or hours of tunneling through research and reviews to figure out exactly which ones will best support you.

Luckily, HUM Nutrition, the all-natural line of mind, body and beauty supplements, takes all the time and guess work out of finding the perfect vitamin match. Just take their 3-minute online evaluation and their team of RD Nutritionists will provide you a foolproof plan of personalized recommendations with exactly what you need to deliver results now and help protect against future concerns. Their targeted and innovative formulas support everything from clear glowing skin to reduced under-eye circles, boosted energy, improved digestion, and an overall healthy body.

Below, we caught up with Andee Layne of The Honeybee to discuss how she unplugs, stays healthy, and everything in between.

---

Create & Cultivate: The digital world never sleeps. How do you unplug?

Andee Lane: It's really hard given that it is a crucial part of my business, but I take a mandatory day out of the week to completely unplug and focus on self-care. Whether it's a workout or pampering myself with a mask that "me time" is imperative.

C&C: While we love a good face mask, it’s important that we focus on prevention + long-term self-care vs. damage control + quick fixes. What are some ways you invest in your inner-health?

AL: Investing in your inner health is a MUST and the earlier you start, the better! I invest in my inner health by being super mindful of what I put into my body, exercising consistently and also taking vitamins religiously.  HUM gummy vitamins are so tasty and effective its been easy to stay consistent– and I love the convenience of their money-saving monthly plan options. 

C&C: How do you find the time to make “me” time? 

AL: It's extremely difficult at this stage in life chasing after two little ones, running a business and building a new house but my motto is "do what you can when you can." It's hard but... make it happen! Carve out that hour a day to detox and take for yourself.

C&C: Walk us through your ideal self-care Sunday.

AL: My ideal self-care Sunday would start off being technology free. I'm glued to my phone and computer so shutting everything off is the first step! Spending one on one quality time with my kiddos followed by doing something active for myself (usually a workout or yoga class that I like) and ending the day with a healthy meal and some sort of beauty/pampering treatment would be the perfect self-care Sunday for me.

C&C: If you could only pick one self-care hack, what would it be and why?

AL: Honestly taking vitamins and supplements would be my top self-care hack. It's quick, easy, convenient, beneficial and takes two mins! I’m all for a good sheet mask but find vitamins go beyond the surface and provide longer-lasting results with less effort. 

C&C: When you don’t have time for your normal self-care routine, what do you do to keep stress and anxiety at bay?

AL: For me exercise is key! Whenever I am feeling stressed or overwhelmed If I sneak in a quick 30-minute workout (even if it's just at home) that always helps tremendously!

C&C: Is there anyone you look to for self-care inspiration? 

AL: My kids actually! I see these little guys watching everything I do so I definitely want to set a good example for them so that they know the importance of self-care!

Curious to try HUM Nutrition? Well you’re in luck! Once you’ve taken the quiz and received your recommendations C&C readers get 20% off their purchase with the promo code ‘CULTIVATE’. Get your health on with HUM, today!

This is a paid partnership with HUM Nutrition.

MORE FROM OUR BLOG

How This Fitness Star & Activewear Designer Practices Self-Care

We all know how important it is to have a consistent beauty routine, while also practicing self-care. While the two can mean very different things for all of us, it’s important to take care of ourselves from the inside out. We all love massages (yes, please), baths, and some overall “me” time, but what we’re putting into our body matters too. We’ve partnered with HUM Nutrition and some of our favorite influencers in the wellness space, to chat a little bit about self-care and the importance of getting those proper nutrients. Gotta live long and strong, ladies!

Finding the right balance for anything is tough and especially so with supplements - it can take trial and error or hours of tunneling through research and reviews to figure out exactly which ones will best support you.

Luckily, HUM Nutrition, the all-natural line of mind, body and beauty supplements, takes all the time and guess work out of finding the perfect vitamin match. Just take their 3-minute online evaluation and their team of RD Nutritionists will provide you a foolproof plan of personalized recommendations with exactly what you need to deliver results now and help protect against future concerns. Their targeted and innovative formulas support everything from clear glowing skin to reduced under-eye circles, boosted energy, improved digestion, and an overall healthy body.

Below, we caught up with Katie Austin, founder of Austin Active and fitness influencer, to discuss how she unplugs, stays healthy, and everything in between.

---

Create & Cultivate: The digital world never sleeps. How do you unplug?

Katie Austin: In the world of social media, it’s hard to realize when is a good time to disconnect. There’s new content to be made every hour, new things to see, post, engage with, and 100 more things on top of that. First, to unplug you must do the obvious- get off social media and your emails for a bit. Yet, for me, I know even when I’m not on my phone or computer I still am thinking about everythingggg I need to do. So I’m physically “unplugged” but not mentally unplugged. For me, my unplugging comes mostly from working out. A good workout makes me not think about the outside world, or all my stress going on. It lets be at peace with my anxiety. Also, engage in REAL life conversation (not just comments), listen to your friends' situations (not just seeing their posts), asking your loved ones how they are (not just thinking they’re doing amazing bc of social media). Being present in whatever you’re doing will help you mentally unplug. 

C&C: While we love a good face mask, it’s important that we focus on prevention + long-term self-care vs. damage control + quick fixes. What are some ways you invest in your inner-health?

KA: I’ve learned this recently actually because my career has always been something I LOVE so I have never seen it as a job. But lately, I’ve been overworking like crazy, and my love has not really been there. My inner health is usually damaged by my stress levels and anxiousness. The past few weeks, I realized that I am taking away the side that I love- helping and motivating others because I’ve been burning myself to the ground with work. I have come back to my priorities and realized patience is everything to growing a business. Self-talk always helps me stay positive. And realizing the quote “Rome wasn’t built in a day” may be lame but it’s SO TRUE. Quality work over quantity work. Meaning, don’t spread yourself too thin, because it will take a toll on your inner health. You CAN say no to some things, and you don’t owe anyone an explanation for it. 

C&C: How do you find the time to make me-time? 

KA: Actually, my “me” time isn’t what you think it would be! It's not spent alone in my room, or meditating, etc. In my me-time, I love doing anything that takes away my stress, and that would mostly be spending time with my friends, family, and doing things I love with them. Especially because I work at home and alone, I have a lotttt of that time alone haha. So to take away time from my business, and worries, my friends always make me feel so content. Find a group of girls that support you through everything, that care, and that lift you up. My loved ones help me block out all outer voices that could be tearing me down. 

C&C: Walk us through your ideal self-care Sunday.

KA: I’m usually SO lazy every Sunday, and I absolutely LOVE it. I don’t put any pressure on myself to workout hard, eat that clean, or do anything productive. And this helps me unwind from a hard week, and to re-group for the hard work I’m about to do all week. For me, I need these days because I tend to overwork. To make a day for myself with no high expectations is so needed. 

C&C: If you could only pick one self-care hack, what would it be and why?

KA: Definitely a workout!! Makes me feel more confident, healthy, productive, and stress- free! Another hack I love is to wake up, and for the first 20 minutes to start your day, don’t look at your phone or emails. Enjoy a cup of coffee, write down with a pen and paper what you need to accomplish that day. You won’t be bombarded with all your emails yet, and it’s a great way to prioritize. 

C&C: When you don’t have time for your normal self-care routine, what do you do to keep stress and anxiety at bay?

KA: Go for a walk, and listen to great music. Music, a podcast, talking on the phone to a friend. All of those things help ease my mind. 

C&C: Is there anyone you look to for self-care inspiration? 

KA: My boyfriend. He is so good about taking the time out of every day to put yourself first. When he first met me, I was all over the place (I still am but have gotten a lot better!!). I’d wake up at 7 am and work until 1 a.m. Granted, I still do that sometimes, but now I have more of the mentality of, if I don’t get it done today, there’s always tomorrow! Not the end of the world! Always set aside a bit of time for yourself each day.

Curious to try HUM Nutrition? Well you’re in luck! C&C readers can receive 20% off their next purchase with the promo code ‘CULTIVATE’. Get your health on with HUM, today!

This is a paid partnership with HUM Nutrition.

MORE FROM OUR BLOG