#89 Secret Weapon Behind Small Businesses Success | Hello Alice Co-founder Elizabeth Gore

Ever wondered what it takes to build a thriving small business and secure funding in today's competitive landscape? This episode of Startup Project dives deep into the world of Hello Alice, a platform revolutionizing how small businesses access resources and capital. Join host Nataraj as he sits down with Elizabeth Gore, co-founder and president of Hello Alice, a company recently valued at $130 million!

In this insightful conversation, Elizabeth shares her incredible journey, from her background in agriculture and humanitarian work to co-founding Hello Alice. Learn how she transitioned from supporting the UN to empowering 1.5 million small business owners across the US. We explore Hello Alice's innovative approach to financial technology, providing access to grants, loans, and crucial business planning services. Discover how Hello Alice itself generates revenue, beyond its mission-driven approach. Plus, we uncover the fascinating story behind their recent legal battle and how they navigated this challenge.

Nataraj: Host of the popular Startup Project podcast, Nataraj brings his expertise and engaging interview style to this episode.

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Elizabeth Gore: Co-founder and President of Hello Alice, Elizabeth is a powerhouse in the small business ecosystem. Her experience and insights make this conversation invaluable for aspiring and established entrepreneurs.

**Timestamps:**

00:01 - Introduction and Guest Introduction

01:07 - Elizabeth's Early Career and Background

03:13 - Hello Alice's Products and Services

04:47 - Hello Alice's Business Model and Revenue Streams

05:42 - Acquiring Early Customers and Growth Strategies

07:55 - The Main Needs of Hello Alice's SMB Customers

08:27 - Grants vs. Loans: Hello Alice's Funding Approach

09:24 - The Value of Grant Applications for Startups

10:02 - Post-COVID Trends in Small Business

12:36 - Popular Software Used by Small Businesses

14:01 - Customer Acquisition Strategies for Small Businesses

15:03 - Hello Alice's Future Plans and Growth Targets

16:26 - The Hello Alice Lawsuit and Its Impact

17:42 - AI's Role in Hello Alice and Small Businesses

19:15 - The Regulatory Environment for Small Businesses

22:14 - DEI Initiatives and Their Impact on Small Businesses

23:49 - Unique and Thriving Small Businesses

25:07 - Elizabeth's Information Consumption Habits

25:49 - Elizabeth's Mentors and Influences

26:17 - Lessons Learned as a Founder

26:51 - Advice for Aspiring Small Business Owners

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