- Date published
We’re highlighting great local businesses as part of Springfield Small Business Week.
It’s Springfield Small Business Week! We’re celebrating all week long with free coworking and great events. We’re also shining a spotlight on some of our favorite small businesses.
Here at the efactory we’re honored to be home base for more than 40 great companies, including the hottest new snack trend, Hopapops. Read on for our Q&A with founder Jeff Brinkhoff.
The snacktime secret: Hopapops
What is Hopapops?
Hopapops is our brand of the lotus seed. The lotus seed originates in Northern India and Southeast Asia. It is packed with nutrients and has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties.
Hopapops are lotus seeds that have been popped, roasted, and seasoned. The product is similar in texture and appearance to popcorn, but without the hull. The popped seeds are gluten-free and have more nutritional value including vitamins, minerals, fiber, and protein than traditional popcorn.
We launched three flavors (White Cheddar, Mango Habanero, and Coconut) at the Natural Products Expo West show in March, and are currently working to get into retailers and distributors nationwide.
What are some of the struggles that come with being a business owner?
One of the hardest aspects of being a business owner is cash flow. Cash is king in start-ups. Disciplining yourself and separating the “needs” from the “wants” is a must when building a business.
What’s a lesson that you have learned the hard way in regards to business?
Making assumptions when there is data available to validate your ideas.
What’s the best part about being an entrepreneur in Springfield, MO?
There is a lot of support from the community, universities, and programs like the efactory. There are also a lot of seasoned business professionals in and around Springfield.
Springfield Small Business Week
Springfield Small Business Week is part of the National Small Business Week and is designed to recognize small business owners and entrepreneurs in Springfield, MO.
More than half of Americans either own or work for a small business, and they create almost two out of every three new jobs in the U.S. each year.
The efactory is proud to serve small business owners and prospective entrepreneurs through office space, coworking memberships, ongoing trainings, and business consultation in cooperation with the Small Business Development Center and Management Development Institute.
