Summary
Hello, I'm Shaletha Litt. I'm a graduate of Florida A&M University (FAMU) currently pursuing an MBA with a focus in Entrepreneurship at Georgia State University where I am set to graduate this December. I currently work in payroll & HR sales and thus work with several business owners. Previously, I was a bank branch manager and small business lender, so I have supported and built relationships with all types of small businesses over the years. I have always been passionate about entrepreneurship and have always had a desire to operate my own business. I feel that everything I've done education and career-wise has helped to prepare me for this endeavor.
Your contribution will help me achieve a life-long dream.
With the funds raised, I will be able to open the first Tropical Smoothie Cafe in Cobb county and other future locations throughout the Atlanta area.
Why Tropical Smoothie
I chose Tropical Smoothie because of the surge in interest in the health food & nutrition industry. Tropical Smoothie Cafe has delicious and nutritious offerings for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Options include fresh fruit smoothies, sandwiches, flatbreads, wraps, salads, and sides that include fruit, chips, granola, and trail mix.
Tropical Smoothie is a franchise that has already proven to have a successful concept and thrives in its current markets. (Google reviews and see for yourself!) Right now, they are looking to break into the Atlanta market and duplicate the success they have in other cities and I want the opportunity to be a part of this venture.
Why I Will Be Successful
I am both thankful and humbled to have a great support network composed of friends, family, and fellow alumnus from FAMU and Georgia State. Additionally, my father, a retired veteran of the US ARMY, has agreed to go in on this business venture with me. With his support and status, we can take advantage of several benefits awarded to veterans. For example, we plan to pursue catering contracts locally and on the nearby military base (Dobbins AFB) where they honor Veterans First. Veterans First is a program where businesses and government entities alike give consideration to military veterans first when bidding on service contracts which gives us a great advantage.
Additionally, I have lots of ideas for community involvement and programs such as health and wellness events, local sponsorships, scholarships, etc. We also have ideas to differentiate product offerings once we build more rapport with the franchise.
What I Need & What's in it for You
The Breakdown:
- In order to receive funding, I need to bring a minimum of $20,000 cash to the table. The $10,000 that I am hoping to raise with your support will help me make up for my current shortfall.
- In the event that I don't raise the full $10,000 within the 60-day period, I will continue to save until I do and then pursue an SBA loan to fund the build out, marketing and initial start-up costs; so no matter what, any and all contributions will go towards this project.
- Everyone who contributes in any way, shape or form will be invited to the Grand Opening and will receive their first smoothie or food item for FREE as a Thank You for your support.
Other Ways You Can Help
In the event that you can't contribute financially, that doesn't mean you can't help:
- Word of mouth is vital for this type of operation so spreading the word to friends, family, and others via social media and other outlets is a great way to show support.
- Please feel free to use the Indiegogo share tools!