Meet the Outdoor Entrepreneurs: Glen Boulder

Meet the Outdoor Entrepreneurs: Glen Boulder

Welcome back to another edition of Meet the Entrepreneurs, the (very occasional!) series where I delve into the stories and personalities behind some brilliant outdoor brands.

This time we’re getting to know up and coming USA outdoor brand Glen Boulder. Over to founder Matt Campbell to tell the story:

My name is Matt Campbell and I am 22 years old from Boston, MA. I have always been very into skiing, fishing, and hiking in the outdoors. From a very young age I could not get enough of being outside and was always very excited to explore new areas. Over the years my thirst for adventure has continued and I love to share my enthusiasm with others!

Where did the idea come from? How did your business start?
I decided to start Glen Boulder a few months ago to pursue my fascination for adventure, while exploring entrepreneurship. As for the name, Glen Boulder is a trail from the Pinkham Notch, in northern New Hampshire. We have a family home in the Pinkham Notch area (which has become a second home for me!) and I have grown to love everything New Hampshire has to offer. I spent most weekends there skiing, hiking, and fully taking advantage of the scenery. It was one of the first hikes I ever did with my dad, and my dad has had a huge impact on my love for the outdoors, so it seemed fitting!

What has been your biggest challenge and how did you overcome it?
One of the hardest parts of this journey so far has been facing the fear of the brand not catching on and succeeding early on. No matter how much preparation/research you do prior to launch, there will always be uncertainty as to whether or not people will buy your product. Luckily for us, we sold our first shirt within an hour of making the website live which was a great boost of motivation and helped push past that feeling of uncertainty. 

Anything you’d do differently if you started again? 
I think the biggest things that I wish I had known when initially starting is that you must be prepared to make some sacrifices. While building the brand in this first year, it is important to understand that you will need to dedicate countless hours to growing your customer base and following. I also think that it is very important to focus on building excellent relationships with both your customers and suppliers. I am constantly trying to expand my network which has contributed a lot to the growth of Glen Boulder.

What’s your best tip for budding entrepreneurs?
The biggest advice I can give is do your research before you jump into starting a business full time. Take the time to study your industry and find flaws that you can improve and build upon that. Build positive relationships with everyone around you because you never know the valuable people that they have within their personal networks that could help you down the line.

Do you have a business hero? Is there anyone who has helped you along the way?
My dad has been very influential during this journey. From a young age he taught me the power of exploration and to always look for the next adventure. He motivated me and provided helpful insight to get Glen Boulder up and running and share my deep passion for the outdoors.

Matt and his dad Jeff.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?
The goals I have for Glen Boulder moving forward in the next 5 years would be to continue to expand our product line with new designs/products and grow our customer base. I also want to expand our international reach and get our products into stores all around the world.

What would be your one desert island luxury item?
I would for sure bring a Glen Boulder Original Hat to keep the sun out of my eyes and stay stylish! 

If Glen Boulder has caught your eye while reading this, you can browse their products on their website: https://glenboulder.com/
Use code: THEHELPFULHIKER and you will receive 10% off your order!

Website URL: https://glenboulder.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/glenboulder/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/glenboulder
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shopglenboulder/

If you enjoyed this installment of ‘Meet the Outdoor Entrepreneurs’, you can read previous posts here:

PACMAT

Freeloader

Bundle Beds

Campsited

Mother and Nature

Cornish Wave

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