DT | CXL Excel Presents: VAIN Vanilla with Kate Banks - 11:45 a.m.

Join CXL for the next installment of their Excel speaker series, where they share the stories of young companies and their passionate leaders. VAIN Vanilla founder Kate Banks will teach us about the fascinating world of small-batch vanilla, and why she decided to tackle this niche in the foodie scene. Attendees will be able to sample treats made with her vanilla and give feedback!
 

Kate grew up in Kansas City. She graduated Liberty High School and Trinity University (Texas). After several marketing positions in healthcare companies in KC, she earned her MBA at The University of Kansas. She then helped form a private holding company for her family business, living in San Diego for four years. Returning home to start a family, she became pregnant with triplets. She has been mom, philanthropic volunteer, and part-time owner/advisor for her family business.

In November of 2014, Kate took the leap to start a food business with her friend and chef, Charlie Hammond. VAIN Foods is a Kansas LLC and our primary product is premium vanilla extract. Kate’s husband, Dave, manages all marketing for the business, and her kids have become experts at heat-sealing bottles of vanilla. Kate continues to learn about running a food business, innovate new products and hopes for a national debut for VAIN Foods in January 2017.