Interested in starting your own journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Victoria Marinelli & Debbi Heger, Founders of Mona Pants Mintage, located in Raleigh, NC, USA.

What's your organization, and who are your members?

We are the Mona Pants Foundation, a 501c3 nonprofit. We raise money for underfunded animal rescues and our ongoing projects through our online and brick & mortar shops. Our customers are animal lovers with a taste for eclectic and vintage fashion, jewelry, and home decor. We sell a curated collection of donated jewelry, clothes, vintage homewares, art, and more.

Tell us about yourself

We have two owners! Debbi, our founder, is an artist and jewelry maker. She opened her first retail store in the 1990s and gained more than 20 years of experience. I (Victoria) joined Debbi when she decided to open our shop, Mona's Mintage, to help raise money for the foundation. I specialize in design, social media marketing, and business development.

What's your biggest accomplishment as an organization?

Our biggest accomplishment has been the expansion of our programs this year! Our projects include supplying first responders with pet-sized oxygen masks, a pet food pantry, shelter outreach to prevent the euthanization of dogs wrongfully labeled with behavioral issues, and supplying rural police departments with K9 protective vests and first aid kits. We couldn't do this without our supporters, who help us raise thousands of dollars every week.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being an organization?

The balancing act for sure. When only 2 of us are running the show, we don many hats. At least it's a great way to remain perpetual students, especially with how quickly social media changes.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow an organization today?

First, test out your idea. Let it grow naturally before you jump all in. You don't want to make a huge investment without results.

Second, get an accountant. That's all I'll say about that.

And third, give yourself some slack. Opening and growing a business is hard, and it takes a long time to work out the kinks. Don't assume you're failing when you keep hitting roadblocks. Those are actually helping you improve.

Where can people find you and your group?

Website: https://www.monapants.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/monapantsfoundation
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pantsgram/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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