News Summary
In Austin, two University of Texas sophomores, Vance Mark and Leor Goldstein, are launching Zizical Botanicals, a brand dedicated to all-natural hair care products. Their entrepreneurial journey began in high school, driven by a desire for better hair care options. Balancing college studies and business development, they handcraft products from their apartment and receive mentorship from the Forty Acres Founders’ program to grow their venture. With strategic planning and hard work, they are set to inspire others as they embark on their path to success.
AUSTIN, Texas – University of Texas sophomores Vance Mark and Leor Goldstein are navigating the challenges of full-time studies while successfully managing their own business, Zizical Botanicals. Launched in 2022, the duo’s company specializes in creating all-natural hair products, a venture inspired by their personal experiences with conventional hair care solutions.
The pair initiated Zizical Botanicals during their high school years, driven by their dissatisfactory encounters with existing hair products on the market. This personal motivation led Vance to develop a specialized formula in order to meet their own hair care needs, setting the foundation for their entrepreneurial journey.
Mark and Goldstein faced significant obstacles during their freshman year, struggling to balance the demands of college academics with their budding business responsibilities. To carve out dedicated time for Zizical Botanicals, they commit their Fridays to focus entirely on their company, as they do not have academic classes scheduled for that day. This strategic scheduling allows them to experiment with product improvements and refine their business strategies during the week.
Currently, the products offered by Zizical Botanicals are handcrafted in their college apartment where they utilize bulk ingredients and an industrial mixer to streamline production. Despite their passion and dedication, they have encountered overwhelming challenges in balancing their dual commitments. Recognizing the need for additional support, they joined the Forty Acres Founders’ program at the University of Texas.
The Forty Acres Founders’ program is designed to support young entrepreneurs by providing mentorship, funding, and access to valuable resources. Through this accelerator program, students like Mark and Goldstein gain important insights into researching potential markets, enhancing their product offerings, and striving to achieve a suitable product-market fit. Participants benefit from weekly mentorship sessions and training opportunities that empower them to pursue their entrepreneurial ambitions effectively.
As part of their efforts to streamline operations, they have also hired an assistant, supported through the mentorship program, to help with various tasks at a rate of $20 an hour. This assistance plays a crucial role in allowing Mark and Goldstein to maintain their focus on both academics and their growing business. Interestingly, students participating in the Forty Acres Founders program can earn credit hours upon completion, integrating their entrepreneurial experience into their academic journey.
As they continue to grow Zizical Botanicals, the partnership between Mark and Goldstein underscores the increasing trend of entrepreneurial spirit among college students. Their innovative approach and commitment to producing all-natural products reflect a larger market demand for healthier, eco-friendly alternatives in personal care. As they forge ahead, both entrepreneurs aim to find a balance between their studies and business responsibilities, while cultivating a brand that aligns with their vision and the needs of their customers.
The story of Vance Mark and Leor Goldstein exemplifies not only the ambition prevalent among University of Texas students but also the challenges that accompany entrepreneurship. Working toward their goals, they invite others to witness their journey as they strive to bring Zizical Botanicals to the forefront of the natural hair care industry.
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