Founder Spotlight: Krunal Mistry
Krunal Mistry began his career in management consulting, gaining experience at both a multinational company and a boutique firm. While he valued these opportunities and the chance to work with a diverse range of companies and people, he always had a vision of becoming an entrepreneur.
Join us as we delve into Krunal’s journey from the world of management consulting to founding Tastesmiths. Discover his experiences on the FutureProof Programme, the challenges he has faced, and the milestones he has achieved. Learn from the invaluable lessons he has gathered along the way and gain insights from his advice for fellow entrepreneurs on their own paths.
Krunal Mistry: Founder Introduction
I started my career in management consulting, working at both a multinational company and a boutique firm. While I enjoyed the experience and had the opportunity to work with a variety of companies and people, I always had my sights set on starting my own business.
Krunal, tell us about Tastesmiths and what motivated you to start up?
The idea for Tastesmiths was inspired by three main factors: growing up with the sight and smell of my mum making Indian food for dinner, realising that many of my friends never cooked Indian food at home, and noticing the lack of convenient fresh food options for dinner.
Tell us about your journey on the FutureProof Programme. What are some of the learnings you took away from the programme?
I discovered Foundervine through LinkedIn, where I saw that one of my fellow food and beverage founders (F&B founders) had applied for the Amplify Venture programme. I later met Regina Antony (Head of Marketing at Foundervine) at a networking event for black and ethnic minority F&B founders. She encouraged me to apply for the upcoming FutureProof Programme, and I was fortunate enough to be accepted.
The most significant takeaway from the programme was the network I built over the 16 weeks. I connected with other food and beverage founders with shared experiences, as well as retailers, consultants, and industry experts. The programme provided invaluable guidance and support throughout, and this continues even after its conclusion.
What have been the biggest challenges you’ve had to overcome in your entrepreneurial journey?
The biggest challenge has been dealing with the “not knowing” aspect. This includes not knowing who to talk to when faced with a problem, not knowing how to solve issues that require specific expertise, and not knowing the processes needed to achieve your goals. The entrepreneurial journey demands a great deal of resilience and the ability to be comfortable with not having all the answers at every moment.
Is there anything you wish you’d known before starting up?
The importance of networking and being open to speaking with as many people as possible. In the food & beverage world, most people are incredibly friendly and eager to help. If you have a problem, chances are someone will know someone who can assist you.
What are some of the important milestones and recognitions in your journey so far?
Some important milestones include getting our first in-store listing and seeing that customer become a regular buyer, which validated our product’s suitability for the market. Being featured in Speciality Food magazine and sharing our perspective on the meal space was significant. Finally, pitching Tastesmiths at London City Hall was a very special moment.
Any top tips for entrepreneurs struggling with structure?
Seek advice from someone who excels at structure and learn small, manageable strategies you can implement. Gradually incorporate these into your routine, and before long, you’ll establish a structured system. Remember, discipline is more crucial than motivation.
Entrepreneurial communities can be such powerful support networks — do you have any asks or gives to the Foundervine community?
Always be open in your conversations and make time for everyone you meet. Connect people with one another and foster those relationships. Consider how you can help others and focus on building them up.
