Meet Kimo Olds. Actually, if you’ve spent any time at the Cabarrus Center or at local farmer’s markets, you likely already have.
His signature introduction of his business, Kimo’s ONO Grindz, is unforgettable. He’ll laugh and tell you that even at more formal events, like the recent Cabarrus Economic Development Annual Summit, his community expects him to yell out the “ONO” the way only Kimo can do.
Kimo’s memorable business intro is a prime example of the love and passion that goes into his product, Chili Pepper Water. It’s a hot sauce, but nothing like Texas Pete or Frank’s. Kimo’s Chili Pepper Water is all about the flavor from only 5 simple ingredients. It is versatile enough to be used as a marinade, salad dressing and even a beverage enhancer.
So, what fuels the passion behind Kimo’s ONO Grindz? After moving to the mainland from Hawaii in 2014, Kimo had a deep desire to bring the spirit of Aloha to his new home. Chili Pepper Water, a traditional Hawaiian condiment, was his vehicle to do just that.
“I want my customers to experience what Hawaii tastes like – our culture and our spirit of giving back.”
Manufacturing, packaging, selling and distributing a food product is no easy task. Kimo will be the first to tell you that he soaks in every resource that he can to help his business grow. He’s currently selling in 6 retail locations with a few more in the pipeline, but is on the precipice of having his products on shelves internationally, in 6 different countries.
He gives a lot of credit to overcoming hurdles and getting connected to the right resources to Meg Smit at the Rowan-Cabarrus Small Business Center (SBC). Through the SBC, Kimo received guidance in finding the right financing options for his current stage of business, graduated from the Retail Lab bootcamp, and engaged with professional services and other important resources.
“Meg is awesome. Sometimes I will come to her in search of more unique connections and she always helps me.”
After overcoming so many hurdles, certifications and red tape in the food product industry, Kimo is determined to give back in gratitude for all the support he has received. Passionate about giving back, Kimo serves as a mentor for the Cabarrus Center Venture Mentoring Services program, sharing lessons from his experience with other entrepreneurs within the food product industry.
If you want to learn more about his three flavors of Chili Pepper Water (all vegan and gluten free) you can find them at www.kimosonogrindz.com or connect on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok or YouTube.
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