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Articles Tagged with: business branding

Gratitude, Growth, and Grit: A Look Back at the Oregon Startup Conference

On June 20, 2025, Sacred Fire Creative had the honor of facilitating the Oregon Startup Conference on behalf of Launch Mid-Valley, an initiative that supports entrepreneurial growth in the state’s Mid-Willamette Valley region.

Emceed by Launch Mid-Valley’s Venture Catalyst Mike White and Innovation Navigator Malee Ojua, this year’s Conference was more than a gathering. It was a vibrant showcase of innovation, resilience, and community. Entrepreneurs, thought leaders, investors, and local changemakers filled Canyon Commons in George Fox University, all united by one mission.

And that is to champion small business success across Mid-Willamette Valley and beyond.

At its core, the Conference is about building bridges. It’s about giving early-stage founders access to the tools, mentors, and resources they need to take the next steps.

It’s about telling the stories of entrepreneurs who are doing the work, making an impact, and reimagining what’s possible together.

Pitch Willamette: Spotlighting Tomorrow’s Leaders

One of the most anticipated moments of the day came during the Pitch Willamette competition, where ten bold startups took the stage to share their visions for the future.

These startups are: PourUp, Communal, Where to Eat Guide, Dayo Technologies, Pure Light Botanical Beauty, Pour Soul Systems, NerdNode, Rising Wine Collective, Accent Innovations, and Life2Launch Institute.

After an inspiring round of pitches, Dayo Technologies emerged as the grand prize winner, earning a $30,000 investment to accelerate their growth. Their app attempts to transform the way people utilize social media by rewarding them when they minimize the time they spend on these platforms.

The People’s Choice Award, a $1,000 prize voted on by attendees, went to Life2Launch Institute. Life2Launch is an app focused on educating and guiding young people as they prepare for college and transition into adulthood.

These two winners exemplify the entrepreneurial spirit that thrives in our region: resourceful, mission-driven, and deeply committed to solving real-world problems.

Last year’s winner, Revino, also returned to the stage to share updates on what they have accomplished since.

A Firestarter Keynote

Another highlight of the Oregon Startup Conference is a powerful keynote address by Bob Dalton, founder of Sackcloth & Ashes. Sackcloth & Ashes is a company that operates on a 1:1 model, where for every blanket sold, a blanket is donated to a homeless shelter. He also recently launched LOCL, an app that promotes intentional, hyper-localized, and community-centered social connections.

Bob’s story of social entrepreneurship, compassion, building a brand rooted in purpose, and empowering grassroots movements capped the tone of the Conference. His message reminded everyone in the room that business can be both a tool for innovation and a force for good. He also emphasized that the most impactful ventures often begin with one person choosing to care.

The Resource Fair: Where Innovation Meets Community

Throughout the day, attendees explored the Resource Fair, a cornerstone of the Oregon Startup Conference experience. Each section was designed to meet startups where they are and connect them with the people and tools they need to grow.

These sections are:

Hands-On Tech Lab, which showcased local tech innovation in action
Startup Lounge: Meet the Mentors, a welcoming space for one-on-one conversations with seasoned founders and business leaders
Startup Support Central, which provided direct access to incubators, business development organizations, and funding resources
Rest and Recharge, a space where attendees were able to take a break and just breathe
The Marketplace, where local entrepreneurs showcased their products and services, building visibility while creating meaningful connections

Three Panels, Countless Insights

The day was also filled with powerful storytelling through three thoughtfully curated panels.

The morning’s Success Panel, moderated by Yalda Moshiri of Oregon Entrepreneurs Network (OEN), focused on the challenges of launching a startup. The panel included:

Emily Cadiz of Finnegan the Dragon
Jamie Bianchini of Purpose in Expenses
Keiran Bailey of Saije Esthetics
Kristy Runge of HelloCare
Pallavi Pande of Dtocs
Tracy Camp of UpSight Security

This panel was shortly followed by the Access to Capital Panel. Led by moderator Catherine Summers of The Bella Casa Group, it offered a deep dive into funding strategies for startups. Joining this panel are:

Jeff Hilderbrand of Mid-Willamette Valley Council of Governments
Nicci Walker of Micro Enterprise Services of Oregon
Quinn Millegan of Woodworth Contrarian Fund
Ricardo Lopez of Business Oregon
Scott Bossom of WaFd
Steve Eichenlaub of Portland Seed Fund

The afternoon Success Panel, moderated by Sacred Fire Creative’s own Malee Ojua, brought a heart-centered perspective on entrepreneurship and the role of storytelling in its growth. The panel is made up of:

Callie Christensen and Kelly Oriard of Slumberkins
Joan Fleishman
John Mead of Solid Carbon
Patrick Crowley of Chapul Farms
Rachel Dreilinger of NeuraMedica
Rita Hansen

Each panelist brought their own story of grit, vision, and purpose, highlighting the diversity of paths to success and the common thread of mission-driven leadership.

Community-Fueled, Mission-Aligned

The Oregon Startup Conference is a project of Launch Mid-Valley (LMV), the Mid-Willamette Valley Regional Innovation Hub. Funded by Business Oregon and overseen by Strategic Economic Development Corporation (SEDCOR), LMV supports entrepreneurial innovation and growth in Oregon’s Polk, Marion, and Yamhill counties.

As a collaborative initiative, LMV works closely with partners such as the Chemeketa Small Business Development Center, Chemeketa Community College, McMinnville Economic Development Partnership (MEDP), Latino Business Alliance, Indy Idea Hub, George Fox University, Oregon Manufacturing Extension Partnership, and the Chehalem Valley Innovation Accelerator.

The Conference is also made possible by the generous support of WaFd Bank, National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) Oregon, Catherine Summers, and Dr. Nicole Villegas of Sensory Conscious Institute.

Sacred Fire Creative is grateful for the opportunity to serve the community through the Oregon Startup Conference on behalf of Launch Mid-Valley. It aligns with our mission to uplift small business owners, amplify their authentic voices, and use brand storytelling as a bridge to reach and inspire others. The Conference was a living expression of that mission.

To everyone who showed up – to pitch, to speak, to mentor, to learn, or to cheer from the sidelines, thank you. Your presence made this gathering transform into a movement.

If you’re a founder looking to find your authentic voice and use your stories to build powerful connections with your audience, contact us today. Let’s see how we can collaborate.

Slumberkins, Callie Christensen, Kelly Oriard

Slumberkins: How Two Moms Built a Global Brand for Early Learning and Emotional Wellness

In the heart of the Pacific Northwest, two lifelong friends transformed a shared passion for child development into a thriving business.

Kelly Oriard and Callie Christensen, co-founders of Slumberkins, have created a brand that not only comforts children but also empowers them with emotional intelligence.

Their journey from educators to entrepreneurs exemplifies the innovative spirit that defines the local startup ecosystem.

The Genesis of Slumberkins

Kelly and Callie are, first and foremost, friends. It was a friendship that began in childhood. Their paths eventually diverged: Kelly became a school counselor and family therapist in Portland, OR, while Callie built a career as a special education teacher in Vancouver, WA.

However, a mutual recognition of the lack of engaging emotional learning tools for children brought them back together. They began crafting stories and sewing plush creatures that embodied therapeutic concepts in 2015, thus laying the foundation for Slumberkins. Their initial creations, Bigfoot and Sloth, addressed self-esteem and relaxation. These characters resonated with parents and children alike.

In 2017, Kelly and Callie took their concept to Shark Tank. While they were not able to secure an investment, they pushed forward. That decision led to the development of a comprehensive product line that includes plushies, books, educational resources, and an Emmy-nominated television series produced by The Jim Henson Company. Slumberkins has since become a trusted resource for over 1.5 million families, offering tools that foster resilience and emotional growth in children.

In 2022, they brought in a CEO to focus on the business side of things at Slumberkins. Kelly transitioned into the Chief Therapeutic Officer, while Callie became the Chief Brand Officer.

Impact on the Oregon Startup Community

Beyond their business success, Kelly and Callie are active contributors to the local entrepreneurial landscape. They have shared their insights at events like the Bend Venture Conference, Portland Startup Week, and Starve Ups, providing guidance on fundraising and brand development.

Their efforts have not gone unnoticed. In 2022, they received the Entrepreneurial Achievement Award from the Oregon Entrepreneurs Network, recognizing their significant contributions to the state’s innovation economy. Their inclusion in Inc.’s 2023 Female Founders 200 List further underscores their influence and dedication to fostering a supportive environment for women in business.

Meet Kelly and Callie at the Oregon Startup Conference

Kelly and Callie’s journey embodies the essence of entrepreneurial success: identifying a need, creating a solution, and scaling it with authenticity and purpose. Their experience in building a mission-driven brand that prioritizes emotional wellness offers invaluable lessons for startups aiming to make a meaningful impact.

Their presence on the Success Panel at the Oregon Startup Conference will provide attendees with practical strategies and inspiration drawn from real-world experience.

Don’t miss the opportunity to engage with Kelly Oriard and Callie Christensen at the conference on June 20, 2025, at George Fox University. Their story is a testament to the power of combining passion with purpose, and their insights could be the catalyst for your own entrepreneurial journey.

The Power of “Done”: Why Speed Is Essential in Business

If you’re waiting until your product is perfect, you’re already too late.

In today’s fast-paced, innovation-hungry world, there is no place for hesitation. Founders and creators often don’t launch their product, service, or idea, not because they want it to be flawless….

It’s often because they think they need one more certification or one more course to validate their idea, or maybe one more polished feature to make it work better.

But by the time they’re ready, someone else has already launched and learned. And, more often than not, already taken a vast lead.

Paralysis Is the Real Barrier

Let’s be honest. Perfectionism is no longer the goal. Perfectionism has already left the chat.

What’s really stopping most entrepreneurs now is the false belief that they’re not ready yet.

They’re waiting to:

Learn a skill they were never meant to master
Hire a team they can’t yet afford
Build the “best” platform before proving demand

Meanwhile, the market is moving.

That lost time is the difference between being “first to market” and “forgotten.”

Your competitor isn’t better. They’re just braver than you.

The Power of “Done”: Launch Messy, then Listen to Feedback

In startup culture, the minimum viable product or MVP is your best friend.

It’s not about cutting corners. It’s about proving value now. The courage to launch something raw, get real user feedback, and then obsessively iterate is what separates stagnant ideas from scalable businesses.

Here’s what a messy launch gives you:

Real feedback, not assumptions
Early traction, even if it’s small
A seat at a table, while others are still Googling or ChatGPTing how to do it

Speed matters. Customers pay for solutions, not polish.

When you launch now, you learn:

What people will actually pay for
Where the friction points are
Which assumptions were wrong, and how to fix them fast
Whether there’s a true product market fit, or it’s all just a nice idea in your head

Every product you don’t ship is an opportunity you can’t grow from.

Oregon Companies that Chose Speed Over Safety

Let’s look at three local illustrations of “done.”

#1 – Twenty Ideas: From MVP to Market with Purpose

Based in Eugene, OR, Twenty Ideas is a digital product agency specializing in healthcare, education, and wellness solutions. Their approach emphasizes launching minimum viable products (MVPs) swiftly, allowing for rapid user feedback and iterative improvements. This strategy accelerates time-to-market and ensures the product evolves based on actual user experiences.

#2 – Concentric Sky: Innovating with Open Standards

Also located in Eugene, Concentric Sky is renowned for its swift development of digital credentialing platforms, notably Canvas Credentials, originally known as Badgr. By embracing open technology standards and focusing on rapid deployment, they enabled educational institutions to issue digital badges efficiently. Their agile methodology allowed for continuous enhancements based on user feedback, positioning them as leaders in the digital credentialing space.

#3 – Agility Robotics: Rapid Iteration in Robots

Salem, OR-based Agility Robotics is pioneering the field of humanoid robotics with their product “Digit.” Spun out of Oregon State University in 2015, they adopted an iterative development process, releasing early versions to gather feedback and refine their designs. This approach enabled them to quickly adapt to market needs and establish partnerships with major companies like Amazon for warehouse automation.

Again, it’s not about being ready. It’s about being willing.

Launch what you can now. Let customers teach you what you fix. Improve as you go.

Momentum is more valuable than mastery.

You don’t need to “know more” before you start.

You don’t need the right logo, funnel, or software to launch.

What you need is courage. Speed.

And you need to start so you can learn what actually works, while your competitors are still perfecting something no one asked for.

Launch now. Fix later. Learn faster. That’s how progress wins.

Take Action at the Oregon Startup Conference

Want to see “done” in action?

Attend the Oregon Startup Conference on June 20 at George Fox University. You’ll hear from real founders launching messy, bold, and beautiful things. And you’ll walk away with ideas you can act on now.

Sacred Fire Creative specializes in helping founders and entrepreneurs connect meaningfully with their audience through authentic brand storytelling. Contact us today and let’s see how we can collaborate.

Willamette Valley Vineyards: Leading the Future of Wine from Oregon’s Heartland

Tucked among Oregon’s rolling hills, Willamette Valley Vineyards is one of the Pacific Northwest’s most celebrated wineries. It’s recognized not just for its award-winning pinot noir, but also for the values it has brewed into every bottle.

Willamette Valley Vineyards is more than a collection of estates growing grapes for wine. It’s where environmental stewardship, community connection, and bold innovation come together to redefine what a modern winery can be.

From its grassroots beginnings to its industry-shaping leadership, the story of Willamette Valley Vineyards is one of vision, resilience, and deep respect for the land.

A Vision from the Land

The story begins with Jim Bernau, the Vineyards’ founder whose connection to Oregon’s rugged beauty inspired a life-changing dream.

The son of a Roseburg attorney, Jim grew up in Willamette Valley and began experimenting with wine from a very young age. In 1983, he cleared an old plum orchard to grow pinot noir vines. His early days were filled with long hours tending to the vines, even using lengths of garden hoses to water them by hand so they’d survive their first summer.

Jim envisioned a winery that would not only produce exceptional wines but do so in a way that honored the natural landscape and empowered the local community. That vision became a reality when he launched one of the nation’s first community-founded wineries, inviting thousands of wine lovers to become shareholders in Willamette Valley Vineyards.

This democratic approach to ownership helped lay the foundation for a company culture centered on transparency, shared success, and collaboration.

Telling Oregon’s Story Through Wine

Every bottle of Willamette Valley Vineyards wine tells a story of place, people, and possibility.

The Vineyards champions Oregon-grown grapes, highlighting the diversity of terroir across Willamette Valley and beyond. Their commitment to showcasing local flavors while minimizing environmental impact has helped establish Oregon as a world-class wine destination.

The wines themselves are crafted with intention and precision. But the vineyard’s true legacy lies in its values. The Vineyards has shown that it’s possible to grow a successful business while nurturing the land and the community that supports it. It’s a living case study of how sustainability and social responsibility can be powerful drivers of both purpose and profit.

Cultivating Community and Connection

Community has always been at the heart of Willamette Valley Vineyards.

Their innovative shareholder model has grown to include over 21,000 owners, many of whom serve as brand ambassadors. The Vineyards also supports Oregon-based charities and nonprofit groups, contributing more than $300,000 in goods and services in 2024 alone. Their locations regularly host public events, wine education experiences, and fundraisers, providing a space for connection and celebration.

In February 2025, the Vineyards joined the American Heart Association’s “Life Is Why” campaign across all ten of its locations. Its participation helps raise awareness and funds for heart health. It’s also part of an ongoing mission to give back to the people and places that helped the vineyard flourish.

Sustainability from Ground to Glass

From its earliest days, Willamette Valley Vineyards has prioritized sustainability. That commitment has grown into a sophisticated suite of green initiatives that touch every part of the business, from farming to packaging.

The Vineyards is certified Salmon-Safe, a designation that recognizes agricultural practices that protect local watersheds and aquatic life. It has adopted organic farming techniques, invested in renewable energy, and taken steps to minimize chemical inputs.

One of its most innovative tools is UV-C light technology used in the vineyard to prevent powdery mildew. By using autonomous, electric-powered robots that emit UV-C light at night, the Vineyards can reduce the use of chemical fungicides and limit disease without harming the environment.

In a groundbreaking move toward circular packaging, the Vineyards partnered with Revino in 2024 to offer reusable glass bottles. Their 2023 Whole Cluster Pinot Noir was among the first to be bottled in this sustainable format, allowing each bottle to be reused up to 50 times. This dramatically reduces carbon emissions associated with traditional wine packaging and sets a new standard for sustainability in the wine industry.

These efforts are complemented by renewable energy investments, waste reduction programs, and sustainable construction practices at their tasting rooms and production facilities.

A Legacy Still Growing

Looking to the future, Willamette Valley Vineyards remains focused on deepening its impact. Whether through new sustainability partnerships, expanded community outreach, or continued innovation in the vineyard, the team remains committed to its founding values.

It’s not just about what they produce. It’s about how they produce it – with care for the earth, investment in people, and a belief that wine can be a force for good. In every vintage, Willamette Valley Vineyards invites us to taste not just the fruit of the vine, but the spirit of a community working together to make something truly lasting.

Launch Mid-Valley, the Mid-Willamette Valley Innovation Hub, offers tools, resources, and support designed to help startups and entrepreneurs scale up their businesses.

On April 22, 2025, Domaine Willamette, one of Willamette Valley Vineyards’ ten locations, will be the scene of the Mid-Valley Angel Investors Workshop. This private event is set as an evening of wine, connection, and opportunity, where guests will get exclusive updates from SEDCOR, a peek inside the Mid-Valley Angel Investors Group portfolio, and insights on how to become a better angel investor. Sign up and grab your chance to be in the room where the future happens.

On June 20, 2025, Launch Mid-Valley is hosting the Oregon Startup Conference at George Fox University. It brings together ambitious founders, innovators, community leaders, and investors for a high-energy day of live pitching, networking, and resource sharing.

Be part of the conversation around the future of Mid-Willamette Valley innovation. Register here.

Transforming the Workforce: How Agility Robotics Is Shaping the Future of Labor

In the heart of Oregon, a technological revolution is quietly unfolding, poised to redefine the landscape of labor across industries.

Agility Robotics, a company born from academic innovation, has introduced Digit, a humanoid robot designed to work alongside humans.

Digit, and other similar robots, are on the verge of transforming workplaces and addressing critical labor shortages.

A Visionary Beginning

Agility Robotics was established by co-founders Jonathan Hurst, Damion Shelton, and Mikhail Jones in 2015 as an offshoot of Oregon State University’s Dynamic Robotics Laboratory.

Their mission is to create robots that can operate seamlessly in human environments, performing tasks that are repetitive, physically demanding, or hazardous. This vision led to the development of Digit, a bipedal robot that embodies agility, efficiency, and adaptability.

Introducing Digit: The Humanoid Workforce Partner

Standing at 5’9” and weighing 143 pounds, Digit is engineered to navigate complex environments with human-like dexterity. Equipped with advanced sensors and artificial intelligence, Digit can handle tasks such as picking up and carrying totes, stacking boxes on shelves, and loading or unloading semi-trailers.

Digit’s design allows it to work alongside human colleagues without the need for significant modifications to existing workplaces.

The manufacturing and logistics sectors are experiencing significant labor shortages, with over a million unfilled positions in the US alone. Digit offers a solution by taking on monotonous and physically taxing tasks, thus allowing human workers to focus on more strategic and value-added activities.

This development enhances operational efficiency, as well as improves job satisfaction and safety for human employees.

The Leadership Behind the Innovation

Agility Robotics’ leadership team is a powerhouse of expertise and vision.

Co-founder and Chief Robot Officer Jonathan Hurst has been instrumental in advancing legged locomotion research, laying the groundwork for robots like Digit.

CEO Peggy Johnson, who joined the company in 2024, brings a wealth of experience from her tenure at Microsoft and Qualcomm, steering Agility Robotics toward strategic partnerships and market expansion.

Under their guidance, the company is developing cutting-edge technology and setting new robotics industry standards, all from its RoboFab facility in Salem, OR.

Real-World Applications and Industry Recognition

Digit’s integration into real-world scenarios marks a significant milestone in robotics.

In October 2023, Agility Robotics partnered with Amazon to test Digit in warehouse operations, such as assisting with tote recycling – a repetitive task involving the movement of empty totes.

Similarly, a collaboration with GXO Logistics saw Digit deployed in a Spanx facility in Georgia. There, Digit efficiently moved product-filled totes from autonomous mobile robots to conveyors.

These deployments demonstrate Digit’s versatility and its potential to revolutionize material handling processes.

The innovative strides made by Agility Robotics have not gone unnoticed. In 2024, Digit was honored with the inaugural RBR50 Robot of the Year award, recognizing its groundbreaking contributions to the field.

Digit’s significance was also highlighted when it graced the cover of TIME magazine as one of the top inventions of 2024.

Commitment to Ethical Integration

As Agility Robotics continues to refine Digit’s capabilities, the future of humanoid robots in the workforce looks promising.

The company’s approach to integrating robots into existing human-centric environments, rather than designing entirely new infrastructures, sets it apart from competitors. This strategy makes automation more accessible and ensures a smoother transition for human workers adapting to robotic colleagues.

Agility Robotics is acutely aware of the ethical considerations surrounding automation and employment. The company’s goal is not to replace human workers but to augment their capabilities, taking over tasks that are undesirable or unsafe.

By doing so, they aim to create a more human work environment where employees can engage in more meaningful and less hazardous activities.

A Glimpse into the Future

Agility Robotics stands at the forefront of a technical revolution, bringing humanoid robots like Digit into the workforce to address pressing labor challenges and enhance operational efficiency.

Through visionary leadership, innovative technology, and strategic partnerships, the company is not only transforming industries but also redefining the future of work. As Digit continues to learn and adapt, the possibilities for its application are boundless. It promises a future where humans and robots work hand in hand to achieve greater heights.

Got a big idea for your business? Launch Mid-Valley can connect you to the resources and support you need to make your innovation come to life. Get started by joining a Coffee Club for Startups and Entrepreneurs near you >>> https://www.launchmidvalley.org/upcoming-events.

At Sacred Fire Creative, we help founders and entrepreneurs connect meaningfully with their audience through authentic brand storytelling. Let’s talk and see how we can collaborate.

Revino: Pioneering Sustainability in the Wine Industry

In the rolling hills of Oregon’s wine country, a quiet revolution is underway. At its forefront is Revino, a company dedicated to transforming the wine industry’s approach to packaging through the revival of reusable glass bottles.

This initiative addresses environmental concerns. More importantly, it’s setting a new standard for sustainability in winemaking.

Reducing the Wine Industry’s Carbon Footprint One Bottle at a Time

The traditional wine industry relies heavily on single-use glass bottles, which contribute significantly to carbon emissions. Revino was established to address this.

The company aims at reintroducing the reusable glass bottle ecosystem for beverage producers and consumers. By adopting reusable bottles, Revino offers a solution that reduces carbon emissions by up to 85% compared to single-use vessels.

This substantial reduction is achieved by minimizing the need for new glass production and lowering transportation emissions associated with bottle manufacturing.

Revino is a reflection of its co-founders’ passion and personal experience with the challenges of sustainability. CEO Keenan O’Hern was inspired by his time in the Peace Corps, where he witnessed firsthand the environmental issues faced by global communities. COO Adam Rack developed an appreciation for environmental conservation from growing up on a Kansas farm.

An Innovative Approach

At the heart of Revino’s innovation is their standardized 705-ml reusable glass bottle. Developed with input from over 75 wineries, these bottles are designed to be reused up to 50 times.

This design not only maintains the traditional aesthetics valued by wineries. It also significantly reduces environmental impact.

The company’s closed-loop system ensures that bottles remain in circulation. Once emptied, consumers can return them to participating wineries, retailers, or restaurants. Revino then collects, sanitizes, and redistributes the bottles. This creates a sustainable cycle that minimizes waste.

Industry Collaboration and Recognition

Revino’s success is deeply rooted in its collaborative approach. The company has partnered with over 60 wineries, ranging from boutique labels to larger producers. These partnerships are instrumental in building a circular system for reusable wine bottles.

The company’s innovative approach has not gone unnoticed. The company has been featured in various publications, highlighting its impact on environmentally responsible endeavors in the wine industry.

Additionally, Revino won $20,000 at the Shark Tank competition held by the Strategic Development Corporation (SEDCOR) in 2024. The SEDCOR funding will be instrumental in expanding their bottle-washing facility and push further their mission to create an earth-conscious glass reuse system.

SEDCOR also named them Entrepreneur of the Year in the 2024 SEDCOR Awards.

Revino in the Future

Looking ahead, Revino plans to expand its offerings by introducing Bordeaux-style bottles and screw-top closures by 2025. This expansion aims to accommodate an even broader range of wineries and further promote the adoption of reusable packaging solutions.

Revino’s commitment to sustainability is reshaping the wine industry’s approach to packaging. Through innovative design, strategic partnerships, and a steadfast dedication to environmental stewardship, Revino is leading the charge towards a greener future – one reusable bottle at a time.

Got a big idea but not a tech background?

LaunchPad for Non-Techies is a hands-on virtual bootcamp happening April 11–12 that’ll show you how to turn your vision into a working solution using today’s most accessible tech tools.

Learn how to prototype an app, build with AI, and get your idea launch-ready—no tech degree needed. Register here.

Sacred Fire Creative specializes in helping founders and entrepreneurs build meaningful bonds with their audience through authentic brand storytelling. Get in touch with us today and let’s see how we can collaborate.

Doris Towery and Culinary Collective: Stirring Community Spirit through Shared Passion for Food

When Doris Towery stepped into the Launch Mid-Valley Startup Bootcamp Weekend, she brought more than a business idea. She brought a vision rooted in community, connection, and the power of food.

Out of 21 startups, her team, Culinary Collective LLC, rose to the top ten, winning over judges with its objective to blend a high-end kitchen retail experience with a welcoming teaching space.

For Doris, this isn’t just about selling saucepans. It’s about creating a place where people come together, learn from one another, and give back to the communities they love.

A Vision Beyond Retail

Doris is a seasoned nonprofit executive and community advocate. She has always been driven by the desire to make a positive impact.

It’s a desire instilled in her early in life. After experiencing the loss of her mother at a young age, Doris witnessed how the community rallied around her family and supported her father in raising their family. It inspired her to form a deep commitment to service.

This commitment has been evident throughout her career, from raising over $60 million for community causes to leading organizations recognized among Oregon’s top nonprofits to work for.

With Culinary Collective, Doris aims to create more than just a retail space offering top-of-the-line kitchen products. The store will feature a teaching kitchen designed to foster a community gathering space for food enthusiasts. Here, individuals can come together to learn new cooking techniques, share recipes, and celebrate their love for food.

But the mission goes deeper. Culinary Collective is committed to giving back, with a strong focus on supporting important organizations and causes within the community.

Why Culinary Collective Matters

In an age where digital interactions often overshadow personal connections, Culinary Collective seeks to reignite the communal aspect of cooking and dining.

By providing a physical place for people to gather, the venture addresses a growing need for community engagement and personal interaction. Workshops and classes will not only teach culinary skills but also promote healthy eating habits and cultural appreciation through diverse cuisines.

The Launch Mid-Valley Experience

The Launch Mid-Valley Startup Bootcamp Weekend last February 2025 provided Doris and Culinary Collective with invaluable resources and mentorship. The event, which brought together 21 startup teams, offered participants hands-on learning, networking opportunities, and the chance to refine their business models.

Emerging as one of the top ten winners among such a competitive field is a testament to the strength of Doris’ vision and the potential impact of Culinary Collective.

An Invitation to Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Doris’ journey with Culinary Collective underscores the importance of community-focused entrepreneurship and the impact of supportive systems like Launch Mid-Valley.

If you’re a non-tech founder looking to leverage technology for your venture, opportunities abound. One such opportunity is the upcoming LaunchPad for Non-Techies, a virtual bootcamp scheduled for April 11-12, 2025.

This bootcamp is designed to empower entrepreneurs without a tech background to build AI-powered apps and integrate technology into their businesses effectively.

Participating in programs like LaunchPad can provide the tools, knowledge, and network necessary to bring innovative ideas to fruition. Whether you’re looking to start a new venture or enhance an existing one, embracing technology can be a game-changer.

Don’t miss this chance to take your entrepreneurial journey to the next level. Register here.

At Sacred Fire Creative, we help founders and entrepreneurs connect meaningfully with their audience through authentic brand storytelling. Let’s talk and see how we can collaborate.

Why Small Businesses Must Embrace Hyper-Personalization (and How to Do It Ethically)

Imagine walking into your favorite local coffee shop. The barista greets you by name, already preparing your usual order before you even ask.

Feels great, right?

That’s the power of personalization.

Now, imagine offering that same experience – but at scale, across digital platforms, emails, and customer interactions.

That’s hyper-personalization.

And for small businesses, it’s no longer a luxury. It’s the key to survival in an increasingly competitive market.

Why hyper-personalization matters for small businesses

Unlike big corporations, small businesses thrive on relationships. Your ability to connect with customers personally is what sets you apart.

But in a world where consumers are bombarded with generic ads and mass marketing, a personal touch isn’t enough.

You need hyper-personalization to truly stand out.

Hyper-personalization leverages data and technology to tailor experiences to individual customers in real time. Instead of sending the same marketing message to everyone, you can craft content, offers, and interactions that feel uniquely designed for each person.

This isn’t about using a customer’s first name in an email. It’s about knowing what they need before they even realize it.

This is something that small businesses have an advantage over larger competitors. That’s because small businesses naturally build strong, personal relationships. When combined with the right digital tools, they can turn occasional customers into loyal brand advocates.

How small businesses can use hyper-personalization

You don’t need a massive marketing budget or advanced AI tools to personalize customer experiences. Here are simple yet effective ways to implement hyper-personalization in your small business:

Use customer data wisely.

Leverage the information you already have. Your website analytics, email engagement metrics, and purchase history can provide insights into customer preferences.

You can track what products or services your customers and website visitors frequently browse. You can identify repeat customers and send them exclusive offers. And to better understand their needs, you can ask them to fill up surveys and feedback forms.

Personalize emails and offers.

Ditch the one-size-fits-all email blasts. Instead, segment your audience based on interests and behaviors.

You can send birthday discounts or personalized thank-you messages and offer product recommendations based on past purchases. You can also use abandoned cart emails with a friendly and helpful nudge.

Customize website and social media interactions.

Your website and social media should feel like a conversation, not a broadcast. Keep your audience focused on why they like and follow you in the first place.

To do this, you can use retargeting ads that remind customers about the products they showed interest in. You can also display personalized product suggestions on your website. More importantly, reply to comments and messages with thoughtful responses. Avoid generic replies.

Leverage automation tools.

You don’t need to manage personalization manually. Tools like email marketing software, AI chatbots, and CRM systems can automate the process while keeping interactions personal.

For example, platforms like Mailchimp and HubSpot allow for dynamic email personalization. AI-powered chatbots can answer FAQs and recommend products based on customer behavior. Loyalty programs can reward repeat customers with tailored perks.

How to make hyper-personalization ethical

As powerful as personalization is, there’s a fine line between making customers feel valued and making them feel watched.

Trust is everything, especially for small businesses. Here’s how you can make hyper-personalization ethical and customer-friendly.

Be transparent about data collection.

Your customers should know what data you’re collecting and why. Make it easy for them to opt in (or out) of personalized experiences.

You can do this by clearly stating your privacy policies on your website and offering a preference center where customers can control what cookies and data they share and receive. Above all, never sell or misuse your customer data.

Avoid over-personalization.

There’s a fine line between hyper-personalization and over-personalization. Over-personalization is just creepy. Just because you have the data, it doesn’t mean you should use all of it. Nobody likes receiving an email that says, “We noticed you looked at this item three times at 2:14 AM.”

So, keep your recommendations helpful but not invasive. Use personalization naturally, like suggesting relevant products instead of tracking every movement. Moreover, allow customers to set their personalization preferences.

Secure customer data like a fortress.

Cybersecurity matters. If customers trust you with their information, it’s your responsibility to protect it.

This means using secure payment processors and encrypted databases, as well as limiting data access to only those who need it. You should also regularly update your security measures to prevent breaches.

Personal, not pushy, is the future of small business marketing

Customers today don’t just want good products or services. They want brands that understand them. You can show your customers that you’re a brand that understands them by embracing hyper-personalization. It won’t just drive sales but will also build lasting customer relationships.

You don’t need a corporate-sized budget to create personalized experiences. By using the right data responsibly, focusing on customer needs, and respecting privacy, you can make every interaction meaningful and authentic.

Marketing to the masses is a thing of the past. It’s time to start connecting with individual customers. They will thank you for it with their loyalty and their business.

Build a stronger, more authentic brand that resonates with your audience. Contact Sacred Fire Creative today, and let’s see how we can collaborate.

Jamie Akers of Local Flow Health Bar in McMinnville, OR

Blending Passion and Purpose: How Jamie Akers and Local Flow Health Bar Are Nourishing McMinnville

In the heart of McMinnville, OR, where community and wellness intersect, Local Flow Health Bar stands as a beacon of nourishment and connection.

At the center of it all is Jamie Akers, a passionate entrepreneur whose journey is as vibrant as the smoothies she serves. Jamie and her team recently made waves by winning first place at the Launch Mid-Valley Startup Bootcamp Weekend, held from January 31 to February 2, 2025, at Linfield University’s W.M. Keck Science Complex.

But her impact extends far beyond the competition stage. She’s helping to redefine what it means to run a community-driven business.

A passion for health and community

When Jamie and her family acquired Local Flow Health Bar in December 2022, they didn’t just take over a business. They embraced a mission.

Local Flow had already established itself as a go-to destination for fresh-pressed juices, vitality shots, and nutritious smoothies. Jamie saw an opportunity to expand on that vision, adding her own creative touch with a menu that now features savory and sweet crepes, alongside wholesome lunch bowls.

Her philosophy is simple yet powerful: food should fuel not just the body but also the spirit. Every item served at Local Flow is carefully crafted to nourish and energize, whether it’s an antioxidant-packed acai bowl or a protein-rich smoothie designed to keep locals going through their busy days.

But Jamie’s vision extends beyond what’s on the plate. She wants Local Flow to be a place where people come together, where conversations flow as freely as the freshly squeezed juice.

Jamie’s Launch Mid-Valley journey

Jamie’s entrepreneurial drive recently earned her and her team the top spot at the Launch Mid-Valley Startup Bootcamp Weekend. The event brought together local business owners, innovators, and mentors for an intensive weekend of learning, pitching, and collaboration.

Competing against a field of ambitious startups, Jamie’s pitch stood out. The first-place win not only validated her vision but also provided her with valuable resources and mentorship to continue growing Local Flow in new and exciting ways.

A health bar and a community hub

For Jamie, Local Flow Health Bar is more than just a business. It’s a hub for the McMinnville community.

She has worked hard to cultivate an inviting space where people can relax, connect, and prioritize their well-being. Whether it’s supporting other small businesses or simply providing a friendly smile along with a nutritious meal, Jamie aims to make her impact felt throughout the community.

Her approach to business is a refreshing reminder that success isn’t just about profit. It’s about people.

It’s about making sure that every customer walks away not only satisfied but also inspired to embrace a healthier, more connected lifestyle.

As Local Flow Health Bar continues to thrive under Jamie’s leadership, one thing is clear. She’s not just serving smoothies; she’s serving up a vision for a stronger, healthier, and more vibrant McMinnville.

Want to be part of the Launch Mid-Valley vibe? We’ve got tools and resources to help you grow and scale up your business. Just fill out this form to get started >>> https://tinyurl.com/mid-valley-innovation.

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