Katelyn Williams is the Founder & Recipe Creator of Kate’s Ice Cream. Read our interview with Katelyn about her experiences with Xcelerate business advising (Finance, Sales & Marketing) and peer mentor groups.

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What inspired you to start your own business? 

I was inspired by my sister who couldn't have dairy. I wanted to make an ice cream everyone could enjoy. As a big ice cream fan myself growing up in South Louisiana, it opened my eyes to how many people haven't been included in the classic childhood ice cream experience due to allergies, intolerances, or preferences. I wanted to create a joyful experience for everyone to have really great ice cream, not just great for dairy-free. 

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What are some of your key goals that you worked with Xcelerate on this year? 

I've been in Xcelerate Peer Groups for 3 semesters, and I've been able to focus on my annual marketing plan, new product launches, and received overall support from amazing business owners in town. The One-on-One Coaching I've received has also been crucial! 

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How has your identity as a woman and any and all other intersectional identities impacted your business? 

"The most dangerous creature on this earth is a woman who knows how to think." I feel so deeply empowered by women in business, forging their own path, and always picking themselves up again after a failure. We truly are amazing and I feel so supported.

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What were some of the challenges you faced this year and how did working with Xcelerate help you to overcome these challenges? 

This year the focus was on managing the financials of my S-Corp, and working with one of Xcelerate's coaches, Carla Titus, I was able to hone in on what's important, as well as how spending money on one thing may affect the other. I am currently working on public speaking as well and am going to receive coaching so I can be more prepared for panels and speaking events. 

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Are there any wins or achievements you have celebrated this year while working with Xcelerate? 

This year we were able to cross $1M for the first time and I attribute that success to having a supportive community I can lean on. I was able to be held accountable for the big goals I have set for myself. The peer-to-peer mentorship groups and coaching programs were integral to my organization in achieving these goals.

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Is there anything else you'd like to share about your Xcelerate experience? 

I love women focused organizations!! 

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Follow Kate’s Ice Cream on Instagram: @katesicecream