Empowering Communities Through Entrepreneurship
The Vision of Isaac Collins & Yogurtini
Isaac Collins, Founder of Yogurtini KC
In the heart of Kansas City, a visionary entrepreneur has been weaving a tapestry of success, philanthropy, and social impact. Isaac Collins, the founder of Yogurtini KC, not only brought a delightful frozen yogurt experience to his community but also championed the cause of giving back and creating positive change. In a BeGreat Together interview, Collins shared his remarkable journey, his commitment to philanthropy, and his strategies for fostering economic growth within marginalized communities.
Collins' story is rooted in his upbringing, where his parents' entrepreneurial spirit in the face of socioeconomic struggles inspired him to forge his own path. His passion for business began in college when he penned a business plan that would become the foundation for his Yogurtini venture. At just 23 years old, he embarked on his entrepreneurial journey, owning and operating a successful Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory store in Iowa. The drive to build generational wealth and provide a better life for his family fueled Collins' determination. Growing up with financial constraints, he envisioned a future where his family could thrive. Today, Collins owns three Yogurtini locations, an entrepreneurial coaching business, and a nonprofit organization.
Collins' commitment to making a positive impact goes beyond the doors of Yogurtini. His collaboration with BeGreat Together to raise funds for school programs, as well as partnering with various nonprofits, showcases his belief in the power of collaboration between businesses and philanthropies.
“Helping nonprofits get financial relief for their organizations inspires Yogurtini employees to give back and have missional purpose behind the business,” said Collins. “Being generous and open-handed is infectious and it motivates people to be a part of something larger.”
Superhero Yoga Class
Collins’ co-founded nonprofit, Superhero Yoga, is another example of his belief in strengthening community bonds. Superhero Yoga provides consistent yoga instruction to students attending under-resourced schools in the Kansas City area. Instructors teach trauma-informed yoga to youth, providing practical tools for self-regulation and monitoring their “flight, fight, freeze” responses. They even provided at-home yoga through the pandemic, helping lower stress for kids. Through innovative programs like Superhero Yoga, and other initiatives that encourage reading and financial relief for nonprofits, Collins and his team demonstrate that businesses can be a force for good in society.
The link between entrepreneurship and social impact is woven into Collins' mindset. He firmly believes that small businesses play a pivotal role in advancing local economies and creating ripple effects that benefit society as a whole. He envisions a world where businesses not only thrive but also uplift those around them.
For example, Collins' involvement in enterprises like the SCORE Black Entrepreneurs Summit underscores his dedication to promoting economic opportunities and resources within Black communities.
“We have to recognize the historical inequities that persist,” said Collins. “I believe it’s important to provide free business knowledge to help bridge the gap and support Black and Brown businesses—not just during times of economic crisis, but as an ongoing commitment to fostering equality and growth.”
Despite his business acumen and personal mentors, Collins recognizes that society often fails small businesses and entrepreneurs by not providing the necessary resources early enough. He questions why doors and opportunities can't open sooner for those just starting out. So, he aims to create an entrepreneurial ecosystem that inspires employees to become their own employers.
Collins has a bright future ahead, both for himself and the communities he invests in. Yogurtini's expansion plans include three new locations within the next two years. Additionally, he is launching the "Elevate Biz KC" coaching program in February 2024, aimed at empowering entrepreneurs who have been in business for two or more years. This 20-week program seeks to equip participants with the tools they need to succeed in their professional endeavors. Collins' journey from a young entrepreneur to a seasoned strategist showcases the transformative power of business for social impact. Through Yogurtini and his various initiatives, he exemplifies how entrepreneurship can drive positive change, foster economic growth, and uplift local communities.