Verizon Grants $10,000 to Inclusive Hiking Brand Founder to Expand Business

Charlotte Bowens, founder of Conscious Gear, a brand focused on creating products to build a more inclusive hiking community, received a $10,000 grant from Verizon this week to support her business. The grant was the result of her participation in Verizon’s Small Business Digital Ready program, which provides tools, coaching, and resources to small businesses.

Bowens won the grant after entering a competition through the program. Verizon Arizona Director of Small Business Sales Claudia Hidalgo stated that Bowens was chosen for the grant because she is an active and engaged user on the platform. Her story resonated with Verizon, making her a deserving recipient of the grant.

The Vestapak hydration pack designed by Bowens utilizes a vest-style design, different from traditional backpack-like straps, to enhance movement, hydration, and exercise. This innovative product stemmed from Bowens’ personal weight loss journey and fitness experiences. Throughout her fitness endeavors, she noticed a gap in the outdoor equipment industry and decided to address it with her brand.

Receiving national attention, USA Today included the Vestapak in its list of the top 10 gifts for outdoor enthusiasts. Bowens expressed that the grant came as a pleasant surprise, emphasizing her passion for creating products that resonate with the plus-sized community. She plans to use the grant money to hire a team member, outsource order fulfillment, and cover office rent expenses. Despite occasional self-doubt