Birmingham’s Mixtroz Bids Farewell After a Decade of Impact
In Birmingham, the story of Mixtroz draws to a close, marking a heartbreaking yet inspiring chapter for the tech startup that was born out of innovation and hope. Co-founders Kerry Schrader and Ashlee Ammons-Halpin set their sights on the Magic City a decade ago, joining the much-acclaimed Innovation Depot’s Velocity Accelerator. With aspirations high and ideas in hand, they were thrilled when they won a $100,000 investment from the Rise of the Rest (ROTR) Seed Fund. This momentum allowed Mixtroz to eventually raise over $1 million in venture capital, a remarkable feat for a tech company spearheaded by two Black women.
A Journey of Ups and Downs
Reflecting on the adventure, Schrader shared her bittersweet sentiments, saying, “We really dedicated a decade to trying to get Mixtroz going. My saddest thing and my biggest regret is that now, more than ever, Mixtroz is needed because people don’t talk to each other.” In an age where isolation can feel rampant, she lamented the lack of connections, especially among young people. The duo initially aimed to create interactions that bridged gaps by designing an event app that simplified networking. Attendees would download the app, answer a few fun questions, and voilà! They were grouped with others who shared similar interests, transforming the awkwardness of networking into a delightful experience.
A Fond Farewell
In an emotional announcement this month, the mother-daughter duo declared they would wind down the business. Schrader expressed gratitude for their journey, stating, “It’s been quite a ride. The ups, the downs, the incredible people we’ve met, and the lessons learned have all been worth it.” As they packed up their memories, she reflected on how Birmingham embraced them during their time there.
Adding a touch of pride, Schrader noted, “It is something to be said that two Black women came to Birmingham and were able to raise our first $1 million here.” Their decision to relocate from Nashville to Birmingham initially thrilled the city, but later challenges arose. “Birmingham was enamored with us; we were leaving Nashville, but I don’t think the eye for the long-term success of a tech company was there,” she recalled, hinting at the tough industry dynamics.
New Beginnings Ahead
So, what’s next for this dynamic duo after closing the Mixtroz chapter? Ammons-Halpin has landed a position with a venture capital group, bringing her entrepreneurial skills into a new space where she can continue making an impact. On the other hand, Schrader is launching a fresh venture entirely. Having started her own life coaching and mentoring business, dubbed KES (pronounced “keys”), she’s excited to share her wealth of knowledge. “I have opened a coaching consulting business that I’m just now getting off the ground. It’s funny because even from me posting that we’re closing [Mixtroz], people have been coming into that business,” she shared.
With a focus on helping other entrepreneurs find their footing, she offers her services at a more accessible rate. “I understand what it’s like to want questions answered, and then somebody wants to charge you $5,000 and can’t do anything. My hourly rate is $60, and I will only talk about stuff that I really know about,” she asserted with determination. In an industry with too many voices offering advice without substance, her approach is refreshingly straightforward.
Closing Thoughts
As Mixtroz turns the page, it leaves behind a legacy of innovation and connection in Birmingham. Though the journey has reached its end, the lessons learned and the community built will undoubtedly resonate for years to come. Here’s to Kerry and Ashlee, who have not only created technology but have woven their lives into the fabric of the Birmingham community.
