Glaciers Italian Ice is an Atlanta-based company dedicated to providing a delicious and refreshing frozen dessert while supporting local youth through its Youth Entrepreneurship Program (YEP). Through character and leadership development and business management, YEP aims to provide a safe, educational, and employment-focused alternative for young men in the community. Glaciers Italian Ice recently participated in the BeltLine Business Ventures (BBV). Launched by the BeltLine Business Solutions Office in partnership with The Center by Lendistry and CVM Worldwide, BBV is helping small businesses grow and secure permanent locations on the Atlanta BeltLine. The Center spoke with Glaciers Ice Founder & Program Director, Ian Elmore-Moore, and Jalani Traxler, Program Administrator.

The Center by Lendistry (TCbL): What led you to start your business?
Ian Elmore-Moore: I grew up with Italian ice being a staple of summer in New Jersey, but it wasn’t really available here in Atlanta. During the pandemic, when I saw young men selling water on the corner here, it made me realize the need for safe employment opportunities for them. That’s when I decided to combine my love for Italian ice with a mission to mentor and employ young men in our community.

TCbL: What was the most valuable lesson you learned during the BBV program?
Jalani Traxler: The most important lesson I learned was how powerful marketing is and how using social media effectively can spread our story and show people who we are. The skills we gained in marketing and social media will be essential for our growth and for advancing our mission.

TCbL: How has connecting with other participants and facilitators during the program influenced your perspective or plans?
Jalani Traxler: Connecting with other participants and facilitators has shown me that we all share a common mission. Building these relationships has been invaluable, allowing us to exchange experiences and strategies, which has enriched our plans and broadened our perspective.

If you or someone you know is interested in participating in the Beltline Business Ventures Accelerator, applications are now open through June 28th. Apply here.

Learn more about Glaciers Italian on their website or follow them on social media:
Website | Instagram

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