Gently Soap’s Success: How UGA Entrepreneurship Paved the Way for Kristen Dunning’s Pitching Mastery
In the competitive world of startups and entrepreneurship, the ability to pitch an idea with clarity and conviction can make all the difference. For Georgia Full-Time MBA student and founder of Gently Soap, Kristen Dunning, that critical skill was honed through the UGA Entrepreneurship program—a resource that she credits as a cornerstone of her success. “I honestly could not have done it without all of the pitching experience I gained from UGA Entrepreneurship,” Dunning stated, underscoring the profound impact the program has had on her journey.
Kristen Dunning’s entrepreneurial venture, Gently Soap, is more than just a business—it’s a testament to the power of innovative thinking combined with practical, real-world experience. As a student entrepreneur, Dunning faced many challenges common to early-stage startups: developing a unique product, identifying a target market, and, most importantly, convincing investors and customers that her idea was worth pursuing. The UGA Entrepreneurship program provided her with a platform to practice and refine her pitch through workshops, competitions, and one-on-one mentorship sessions.
At the heart of UGA Entrepreneurship is the belief that every great idea deserves a chance to shine, but only if it is communicated effectively. Through its rigorous training, the program emphasizes the art of storytelling—a critical element for any entrepreneur looking to secure funding or build a customer base. For Dunning, this meant learning how to articulate the vision behind Gently Soap in a way that resonated with her audience. The countless hours spent perfecting her presentation techniques, receiving constructive feedback from industry professionals, and engaging in simulated pitch scenarios allowed her to develop a level of confidence that now sets her apart from the competition.
The pitching experience Dunning gained was not limited to formal presentations. It was also about learning to listen—to understand the questions and concerns of potential investors and customers and then adjusting her approach accordingly. This iterative process of pitching, receiving feedback, and refining her message was instrumental in shaping the strategic direction of Gently Soap. The ability to pivot and improve her pitch under pressure has not only helped her secure early-stage investments but also built a robust network of supporters and mentors within the UGA community.
Moreover, the UGA Entrepreneurship program provided an environment where Dunning could interact with fellow aspiring entrepreneurs. The camaraderie and shared experiences among students fostered a supportive network that encouraged risk-taking and innovation. These interactions enriched her understanding of market dynamics and gave her insights into how to position Gently Soap for success in an increasingly competitive marketplace.
The skills Dunning acquired—ranging from the fundamentals of effective communication to the nuances of persuasive storytelling—are now at the core of her business strategy. Gently Soap, which focuses on sustainable and ethically produced personal care products, is poised to disrupt traditional markets. The clear, concise, and compelling pitches that Dunning delivers are a reflection of the rigorous training she received, and they continue to open doors for her business, from investor meetings to media interviews.
Kristen Dunning’s journey exemplifies how academic programs like UGA Entrepreneurship can serve as a launching pad for innovative ventures. Her heartfelt acknowledgment of the pitching experience gained through the program highlights the essential role that such initiatives play in transforming raw ideas into viable businesses. For Dunning and Gently Soap, the future is bright—a future built on a foundation of passion, perseverance, and the invaluable skills acquired at UGA Entrepreneurship.