IFundWomen • Caress Dreams Fund 2024

Founder of Con Todo Press

Multi-Emmy award-winning journalist Naibe Reynoso recognized a representation gap in the publishing industry. To fill that gap, she founded Con Todo Press, a publishing company creating children’s books that amplify the voices and stories of underrepresented communities, ensuring they are told from authentic perspectives. Con Todo Press’ first book, “Be Bold, Be Brave: 11 Latinas Who Made U.S. History,” highlights Latina women who excelled in various sectors.

Reynoso became a member of IFW and received the Caress Dreams Fund grant in 2022, granting her the support and validation needed to expand. The grant enabled her to bring talent crucial for the company’s growth and facilitated a meaningful step towards diversity and inclusion in business practices. Con Todo Press’ product offerings grew and were enriched by the hiring and collaboration of diverse creatives, including BIPOC illustrators.

Reynoso also hired a creative director, enhancing Con Todo Press’ operational efficiency. This has allowed the publishing company to reach its goal of launching ten new book titles annually and developing educational products, like bilingual flashcards.

Con Todo Press launched to effectively change the publishing industry by disrupting traditional norms and providing a platform for BIPOC authors, illustrators, and graphic designers. Con Todo Press’ commitment to social change and community engagement continues to be reflected in its culturally authentic learning resources and partnerships with organizations to distribute books in underserved communities.

Founder of Love Cork Screw 

Love Cork Screw was built out of Chrishon Lampley’s desire to build something both successful and impactful to the world as well as support underrepresented communities and promote sustainable practices. Entrepreneur Chrishon Lampley notes pivoting during challenging times as one of her greatest strengths and did just that when she founded Love Cork Screw after a flood destroyed her Chicago art and wine bar. A lifestyle brand focused on wine, entertainment, and relationships, Love Cork Screw’s mission is to reinvent the wine industry and create a more inclusive, sustainable experience for all. 

In 2023, Lampley became a member of IFW and received the Caress Dreams Fund Grant. This provided Love Cork Screw the support needed to achieve growth and success, including partnerships with H.E.B and Hyatt, and will be the official wine for the Chicago Urban League Gala in November 2024. 

Love Cork Screw has sold over 1 million bottles of wine nationally and also offers a line of ethically sourced wine-scented candles and self-care products. Chrishon and Love Cork Screw are dedicated to making a positive impact in the world and fostering a welcoming and inclusive community.

“Love Cork Screw is more than just wine, it’s a whole mood.”

Founder of femly^TM 

Founder and Chief Estrogen Officer (CEO) Arion Long started Femly^TM after being diagnosed with a tumor linked directly to the chemicals in the pads and tampons she used.  After having difficulty finding organic, high-quality, and sustainable products, Long launched Femly^TM to increase access and provide healthier period care products and education. With products developed with organic ingredients sourced in Houston, TX, Femly’s mission is to meet the needs of menstruators wherever they are by removing barriers to access.

Arion Long became a member of IFW and received a Caress Dreams Fund grant in 2020. During this time, the pandemic halted FemlyTM’s global supply chain. The Dreams Fund grant allowed Long to increase awareness about her brand’s mission, rebrand, and pivot to supporting organizations. Thereafter, Femly launched its first corporate restroom offering, and for its impact, Femly received a spotlight and a $10,000 grant from Beyonce’s BEYGOOD.

In 2021, Arion Long designed a first-of-its-kind smart dispenser that can be placed on a wall in any space to provide free period care. With sensors that work for all skin tones, this inclusive offering supports the brand’s mission to combat period poverty. With strategic partners, Femly dispensers and products can be found in restrooms at universities, NFL stadiums, schools, and offices all over the US.

Femly and Arion Long lead the charge toward a more equitable and compassionate world for all menstruators by championing access, dignity, and choice in restroom facilities.

“Because high-quality menstrual products should be accessible for all.”

READ THE BLOG

You’ve told your friends and family, you’ve bought a domain, you’ve designed the website, and even changed your LinkedIn job description to that coveted “Founder” title. You’re ready to launch this business and see your idea revolutionize the world. Yet, the night before your launch, you’re tossing and turning in bed with one dreaded question circling your brain, attacking your will to sleep: “What if no one even wants this product?” Here’s the truth. You won’t ever completely get rid of this feeling as a founder. But, you can put your mind a bit at ease by spending some time on this important step: Customer Discovery.

WATCH THE WORKSHOP

The key to your success is in the power of your network. The best CEOs, founders and creatives attained their positions not just because of what they knew but the friends, colleagues, relationships that supported them along the way. If you're building a new business, especially if you're endeavoring into a new industry, networking is essential to the success of your business. Watch this workshop to learn how to define your network, how to find people that are a part of your industry vertical, and how to expand your network whether you're an industry newbie or veteran.

WATCH THE WORKSHOP

Whether your business is on the Fortune 500 or just starting out, strategic partnerships can make a huge difference in driving growth for your business. Strategic partnerships allow businesses the opportunity to reach new customers, deepen relationships with their current audience, increase brand presence, and expand the product set.  Watch this workshop to learn the strategy behind identifying, pitching, and closing deals with companies that can take your business to the next level.