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Community Case Study

A Gluten Free Experience, LLC Empowered Growth through Intersect Coworking and Incubator 

Table of Contents

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WHAT IS A PILLAR PAGE?
WHAT IS A PILLAR PAGE? Read More
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WHY SHOULD I USE PILLAR PAGES?
WHY SHOULD I USE PILLAR PAGES? Read More
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PILLAR PAGES FOR SEO
PILLAR PAGES FOR SEO Read More
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DECIDE ON THE TOPIC
DECIDE ON THE TOPIC Read More
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WHICH KEYWORDS ARE TARGETED
WHICH KEYWORDS ARE TARGETED Read More
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SET INTERNAL LINKS
SET INTERNAL LINKS Read More
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KEEP UPDATING PILLAR PAGE
KEEP UPDATING PILLAR PAGE Read More
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CONCLUSION
CONCLUSION Read More

INTRODUCTION

Kim Gradberg, founder of A Gluten Free Experience, LLC, didn’t just bake products—she baked a solution for the unmet needs of gluten- and dairy-free individuals in Norfolk, NE. Born from personal necessity and community demand, Kim’s journey from passionate hobbyist to thriving entrepreneur is one of resilience, community support, and the transformative role of Intersect Coworking and Incubator. 

“I have been gluten-free and lactose intolerant for over 14 years,” Kim shares. When she moved to Norfolk in 2020, she noticed a glaring absence of fresh, high-quality gluten-free options. Initially baking for herself and her church community, Kim soon discovered a broader appetite for her creations. A single social media post offering leftover baked goods turned into dozens of inquiries, sparking the idea for her business. 

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INTRODUCTION

WHY SHOULD I USE PILLAR PAGES?

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"INTERSECT HAS BECOME MY ENTREPRENEURIAL FAMILY'

The Challenge

Starting a business unexpectedly, Kim faced significant hurdles. “I had no concept of feasibility or growth,” she explains. Lacking formal business training and feeling isolated, Kim struggled with doubts and a lack of direction. While her products met an underserved demand, the path to turning passion into profit was far from clear. 

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“I wasn’t confident in myself or my ability to run a business,” Kim admits. The challenges threatened to stifle her progress, leaving her in need of guidance, community, and resources to transform her vision into reality. 

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The Intersect Connection

Intersect Coworking and Incubator became the pivotal answer to Kim’s struggles. Initially curious, Kim was encouraged by a friend to explore the coworking space. “We’ve both been regular attendees at 1 Million Cups ever since,” she says, describing the warm, resourceful environment she found at Intersect. 
Key programs and events like 1 Million Cups, small business workshops, and Norfolk’s Big Idea pitch competition became invaluable. “1 Million Cups exceeded all my expectations,” Kim states. These gatherings provided her with practical advice, networking opportunities, and a support system that celebrated each small win, from giving her two-minute pitch to transitioning full-time into her business. 

The Transformation

Through Intersect’s ecosystem, Kim’s business began to flourish. The coworking community connected her with mentors, bankers, and small business coaches, all of whom helped her navigate growth while avoiding unnecessary risks. Kim recalls a presentation by Midwest Bank representatives, which prepared her for opening a business account. These connections evolved into a supportive network of cheerleaders, celebrating her milestones and guiding her strategy. 

Another transformative moment came from a session led by Benjamin Benton with Nebraska Business Development Center, who introduced her to AI-driven business planning tools. These resources are now helping Kim prepare grant applications for 2025. 

Intersect also played a crucial role in Kim’s confidence. “When I announced at 1MC that I had finally given notice at my day job, there was much celebrating!” she remembers fondly. The encouragement she received turned her initial doubts into bold action. 

 

Lessons Learned

Kim’s entrepreneurial journey has been marked by valuable insights. “I have a lot of ideas—not all of them good,” she laughs, emphasizing how Intersect’s collaborative environment helps her evaluate ideas critically. The feedback she receives at Intersect provides clarity and direction, keeping her on track. 

Another lesson is scaling her business at a sustainable pace. “I didn’t want to risk taking loans before my business was ready,” Kim explains. Instead, she pursued gradual, steady growth by reinvesting sales and using her new commercial kitchen space strategically. 

Her advice to others? “Jump in! Attend a 1MC coffee hour and bring your questions. You’ll leave with more information than you could have imagined.” 

The Vision

Looking ahead, Kim envisions significant growth for A Gluten Free Experience, LLC. With a commercial kitchen secured, she aims to expand into retail and restaurant partnerships across Northeast Nebraska. Regular appearances at farmers’ markets and vendor events remain central to her strategy. 

“Intersect will continue to be my go-to resource,” Kim says confidently. Whether seeking investment contacts or inspiration, she knows the Intersect community will support her evolving goals. 

Closing Thoughts

Kim’s experience at Intersect highlights the profound impact of community-driven support for rural entrepreneurs. “Intersect has become my entrepreneurial family,” she reflects. From scattered ideas to a fully realized business, the journey has been transformative. 

“Any entrepreneur, new or seasoned, would stand to gain from Intersect,” Kim concludes. With her inspiring story, Kim proves the value of combining passion with the right resources, turning challenges into opportunities and visions into realities. 

This story of A Gluten Free Experience, LLC is a testament to Intersect’s mission: fostering innovation and growth in rural communities. Entrepreneurs like Kim are redefining what’s possible in Northeast Nebraska, fueled by determination and the unparalleled support of Intersect Coworking and Incubator. 

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READY TO JOIN THE ECOSYSTEM?

Join  us at 1 Million Cups on Wednesday mornings at 9am or sign up for emails from the Intersect team to stay up to date on upcoming events.