We’re thrilled to spotlight one of the dazzling victors from our 2023 Women of Color Incubator Pitch Competition. These rising Black women entrepreneurs are set to ignite a flame of inspiration and drive in other aspiring young Black women entrepreneurs—and indeed, in all of us—encouraging the pursuit of their own entrepreneurial dreams with newfound zeal and passion.
Meet Lina Suber, Founder and Owner of INVSTD LLC. and 1st Place Awardee from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.
What inspired you to start your business?
I am from Jonesboro, Georgia, a suburb 20 minutes south of Atlanta, and I remember how isolating it was living there. There were very few recreation centers, grocery stores, and I remember just feeling like our town was forgotten about. So I always kept the thought in the back of my mind, that when I had the chance, I would reinvest something back into my community. Another big influence would have to be my mom. She’s a nurse so healthy eating was always stressed in our household, and she did a great job of exposing me to healthy grocery shopping, understanding labels, and cooking so it was always something I cared about and wanted to share with others that I noticed did not have the same access.
What has the entrepreneurship journey looked like for you so far?
It’s honestly been the biggest learning curve ever. Even as a business major, I find that you learn something new everyday and whether it’s how to file paperwork, or how the supply chain works; it can be completely foreign to you. It has been very fun to learn so many new things, and it’s definitely ignited my passion even more, so I think the journey is what energizes me to grow my business.
What has been the most rewarding part of being a young female entrepreneur?
The most rewarding part is knowing the impact you can make in one person’s life and how it trickles down to so many people. The amount of support is also amazing, and I’ve been fortunate enough to come across a lot of people who are very supportive of my goals, and also just as enthusiastic, and passionate about their own ideas as well.
Where do you see yourself in one year? How about 5 years?
In one year, I see myself submerged in everything related to my business, growing my team, and partnering with local suppliers along the East Coast. In 5 years, I see an INVSTD truck in almost every state along the East Coast, and maybe a couple farms.
What advice would you give to other female founders just starting their business?
I think the best advice I could give to other female founders is that it is super important that you trust your vision, your efforts, and your goals with everything in you. You have to be passionate, and you have to be obsessed with what you do. Also, most importantly, you can’t do it alone. There is no business without people so find your team, care for your customers, and brush up on those social skills. You can do it!
How did you first learn about the WBENC WOC Incubator?
A friend recommended it to me. We would have these long talks about our dreams and goals and she found out about the program and encouraged me to participate.
How would you describe your experience in the WOC Incubator Program?
My experience has been very fulfilling. I genuinely feel like the program cares about its’ participants, and does a great job helping people get into the business mindset regardless of their major. Additionally, it puts you in the headspace of the amount of time, dedication, and commitment it takes to run a successful business. You are also provided with so many resources internally and externally to further your knowledge, and seek feedback and insight from those previously in your shoes all in one very safe space.
What did you learn during the WOC Incubator program that will help you grow your business?
I learned how important it is to structure your business, and messaging in a way that everyone can understand. I also learned how to not overcomplicate things, and how to get more comfortable with public speaking. I’m timid by nature, but this experience has definitely elevated my expression, my confidence, and my ability to present.
What’s next for you and your business?
We’re going to be entering the start-up/growth phase, so I’m preparing myself to become one of the hardest workers ever and build the INVSTD brand into a household name. I’m ready to shift gears into community building, and changing the landscape of access to healthy food so there’s a lot to be done.
