Graduates: Their knowledge and network build the business

When Kim Knuth (MBA ’11) visited Cross Continent classmate and friend Courtney Perkins (MBA ’11) in northwest Montana right after graduation, she knew as soon as she stepped off the plane that there was something special happening there.

During their visit, the two discussed the next steps in their post-MBA careers and began exchanging ideas about a business model for the growth management firm that would eventually become Venture Forward.

“One thing led to another, and we realized the potential for something big,” Perkins said. “We wanted to create a company whose primary goal was to invest in ideas or small companies with big potential.”

Knuth’s prior experience at John Deere and Intuit included mentoring small business owners who sold Deere products or used Intuit software, helping them operate more efficiently and increase profitability.

“I was used to working with small business owners,” Knuth said, “and Courtney was adept at accelerating operational and financial growth in companies. We were friends, but we knew we could be incredible business partners with complementary skills and experiences.”

As they developed the idea, the two focused on more than just a business plan for Venture Forward. To make sure it was a fulfilling and sustainable partnership, they discussed their shared values ​​and personal and professional goals. Once they had a plan that aligned with their vision for the company, they began talking to mentors and reaching out to their professional networks.

Knuth and Perkins credit Fuqua with much of the network that built Venture Forward. Ben Golding MBA ’07 serves on Venture Forward’s Advisory Board, and Adam Wealand MBA ’11 is the company’s director of social media and marketing.

Referring to Fuqua’s network, Perkins said, “Everyone was eager to help us. They shared their knowledge and secrets of their trades. It was amazing.”

“We want to be very hands-on with our investments,” Knuth said, “so we’ve focused our attention in and around Montana so we can work locally with our partners and really add value to the company beyond financial capital.”

In August 2013, Perkins and Knuth secured their first investment in BijaBody, a Montana-based company that produces anti-aging body care products and beauty tea blends.

“One of the most important things we learned at Fuqua was the importance of team,” Knuth says. “BijaBody brings product and brand knowledge, we bring business strategy and execution, and our third partner, The ZaneRay Group, brings sophisticated e-commerce expertise. Since meeting three years ago in Shanghai, we feel our time at Fuqua has prepared us for the opportunities ahead. We couldn’t be more excited and grateful for our Fuqua experience, our classmates, and our expanded network.”