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Arron Mansika is the founder of Boulder’s Best Organics, offering gift collections of the finest organic products exclusively from Boulder companies. From wine and chocolate, to lotion and candles, to coffee and cookies, people may Create their Own Collection, or Select a Standard. Collections, arriving in reusable and attractive Presentation Boxes with earth-friendly cushioning, are available at their web site, Peppercorn, Boulder Co-op, Aspen Grove Market, and gift shops and hotels throughout the Boulder/Denver area.
How did Boulder’s Best Organics come about?
I helped run a nonprofit organization in Boulder for eight years and saw that it’s mutually beneficial when local companies and local nonprofits work together. I created a fundraiser by offering locally made organic products to our members. The companies loved the publicity, the nonprofit loved the income, and our members loved the convenience and fun of supporting Boulder businesses while receiving products that are better for the planet and for themselves.
As I left that job I had also just completed my Masters in Environmental Leadership. Realizing the power of the business world to promote positive environmental change, I nearly went into Green Marketing. Instead, I decided to market my own idea. With a little loan, and a little spare room, Boulder’s Best Organics began.
Has Boulder been receptive to you as an entrepreneur?
Absolutely! Boulder is one of the few places in the US where a business like this could succeed – not only because of the wealth of organic products here, but the people are unique. The entrepreneurial spirit is strong here. We’re all proud of the many tremendously successful companies that started here. It excites us because it’s so close to us. Local shop owners have grown accustomed to helping small companies grow all the way into the national spotlight. And the people at Naturally Boulder have helped greatly: from moral support, to introductions to potential suppliers, to enabling meetings with the giants in the industry. Where else but Boulder could a person who’s been in the organics business for only a few months sit in a meeting with some of the industry’s pioneers?
What has helped you grow?
Naturally Boulder has been a main contributor to our success. By keeping costs low to sponsor events, they’ve enabled us to display our logo right beside the logos of some of the most well recognized and reputable businesses. They’ve put us in very good company.
What does the future look like for for Boulder’s Best Organics?
There’s great potential. We’re increasing our variety as more organic companies ask to get involved. Demand for our products is growing, especially from the large corporations headquartered here. And we may soon be working with a national grocery chain, so that even well beyond Boulder people can purchase Boulder’s Best Organics.
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