This Grape-Based Soju Brand is Here to Empower Asian-American Spirits

Stories

June 26, 2023

Founded in 2015 by Carolyn Kim, a Korean American mother and non-profit lawyer, Yobo Soju was born out of a desire to create an elegant soju that resonated with evolving lifestyles and refined tastes.

As the first American hand-crafted soju made in the New York Finger Lakes, Yobo quickly gained recognition, winning awards and becoming renowned for its exceptional taste.

In 2021, John Noe joined the team as an investor and CEO, aiming to propel Carolyn’s vision to new heights. With offerings like Hunni Soju, YoboKish, KTOWN Soju, and Yobo Soju Luxe, they cater to various consumer preferences and occasions, making soju accessible to a wider audience.

Yobo Soju stands out from other brands by choosing to craft their soju from grapes, a departure from the traditional rice-based approach. This unique choice pays homage to Carolyn’s Korean American heritage and the desire to create a more premium and high-quality soju. The result is a velvety smooth liquid with a floral aroma and fruitiness, capturing the attention of cocktail bars and restaurants seeking to elevate their creations.

In an interview with John Noe, he shares his insights into the journey of Yobo Soju and its impact on the spirits market. Join us as we delve deeper into the story behind Yobo Soju and discover the inspiration and passion that drives its success.

HOW YOBO SOJU CAME TO LIFE

Yobo Soju was started in 2015 by Carolyn Kim, a Korean American mother of twins and a non-profit lawyer. At the time, there weren’t many premium soju on the market. While she enjoyed drinking soju in her earlier years, she wanted something that suited her evolving lifestyle and taste.

In a word, she wanted to create a soju that was ‘elegant.’ From that ambition, Yobo Soju was born, the first American hand-crafted soju made in the New York Finger Lakes. Immediately, Yobo won several awards and was touted for being one of the best-tasting soju available. Yobo made its way into top restaurants, cocktail bars, and retail accounts, and was ready to grow.

In 2021, I joined the team as an investor and CEO to push Carolyn’s vision further. We had a great product and initial distribution but needed to get to the next level. In developing our strategy, we started from the very top and figured we’d work our way down. How do we win over U.S. consumers completely unfamiliar with soju? If we could do that, winning existing soju consumers or lapsed soju consumers would be easy by comparison. From there, the obstacles started to stack.

Distributor: Will there even be any interest in soju?

Retailer: Where would I even put soju on my shelves?

Bar manager: How do I even serve soju?

Consumer: What is soju? How do I drink it?

Our strategy was to take our single product and to expand into a diverse portfolio that could navigate our obstacles. We created Hunni Soju, a ready-to-drink flavored soju cocktail line, to utilize a more approachable single-serve format. We created YoboKish, a range of unique aperitifs using our soju as its base, to reach mixology enthusiasts at home and at the bar. We created KTOWN soju, a range of all-natural flavored soju made with real fruit juice, as a playful way to drive soju trials in a multi-serve format. And we elevated our original distilled soju, renaming it Yobo Soju Luxe to honor traditional soju making while adding our own Korean American twist. Together, we’ve created a diverse Asian American spirit portfolio that can bring soju to nearly any type of account and occasion.

Together, the portfolio represents a diverse range of Asian American spirits to meet consumers of any level of soju familiarity. Since 2020, Yobo has expanded from 2 SKUs to 18 SKUs and our annual case volume has grown 50x with distribution in over 30 states. The strategy that seemed risky and overly ambitious in 2021 is now beginning to take hold.

Mass soju is a low-cost product produced at a significant volume that isn’t known for its great taste. But it’s the spirit of Korea, so why couldn’t it be more premium and made of higher quality?
John Noe

USING GRAPES TO CRAFT SOJU

Carolyn was very thoughtful in creating the first Korean American soju. Like her own identity, she wanted to source ingredients that were local to her while paying homage to her history and origin.

At the time, she lived in New York City, and so the idea of using Catawba grapes grown nearby in the Finger Lakes became an interesting choice. There was a disruptive statement to be made as well. In a category dominated by men, how would she represent Korean American women in creating the first soju made in America?

Mass soju is a low-cost product produced at a significant volume that isn’t known for its great taste. But it’s the spirit of Korea, so why couldn’t it be more premium and made of higher quality? Producing soju from grapes resulted in a liquid with a floral aroma, fruitiness, and a velvety smooth finish. Yobo was quickly adopted by cocktail bars and restaurants that wanted to create higher-end cocktails with soju. Consumers lauded its taste and Yobo gained a niche following.

Since then, we moved our operations to California and updated the branding, packaging, and formula for our flagship soju now called Yobo Soju Luxe. The formula change is one we didn’t take lightly. Moving to California not only gave us the ability to source grapes from California but to source rice as well. After much trial and error and countless recipes, we ended up with the current Yobo Soju Luxe formula made from organic wheat, California rice, and California grapes. It’s a blend that combines the best of each of those ingredients giving us a soju that’s impossibly smooth and almost creamy while representing what we believed to be truly Korean American.

PRODUCTION PROCESS AND STANDARDS

The majority of our products are produced in Ventura, California with our distiller.

The process is a labor of love where our formulas are distilled, mixed, and batched by our master distiller. Each bottle is inspected by hand and packed. But the part of the process that’s been the biggest adventure has been the formulation process.

Creating YoboKish, the collaborative name of our venture with Kristen Kish, took almost two years. We started the project with a completely blank canvas and no restrictions. What would a Top Chef winner do? We gave Kristen free rein and the project evolved through several iterations as we experimented with flavors, formats, and concepts. Eventually, we landed on the flavor profile Kristen loves most, bringing contrasting flavors together like bitter and sweet:

SHINE – kumquat, rose, and ginger because kumquat is her favorite fruit.
BLISS – sour cherry, pink peppercorn, and licorice because Kristen grew up in Michigan and loved licorice as a kid.
EARTH – smoked mushroom umami because she’s a celebrity chef and she flexes.
SEOUL – hibiscus, lemon balm, and raw honey because her wife Bianca has a nightly ritual of drinking hibiscus tea in a similar fashion (hence the name, SEOUL for the city where Kristen was born and SOUL for her soulmate, Bianca).

They’re each sweet and bitter, but soft and balanced at the same time. They’re all-natural and have no artificial coloring or flavors. And they provide mixologists with Top Chef-like ingredients to create an array of imaginative cocktails.

DIFFERENT OFFERINGS TO CATER DIFFERENT CONSUMER PREFERENCES

There is a distinct ritual to drinking soju.

Its smaller bottles and lower proof allow bottles to be easily consumed among a group of friends. Once a bottle is opened, it’s shared and poured, two hands pour, and two hands receive as it’s passed around the table until it’s empty. At Korean barbeque, singing karaoke, or out clubbing, the occasion for soju is a social one.

While we want our soju to be a part of all those rituals and occasions, we wanted to design our products for new occasions that would help us cross cultures.

In Yobo Soju Luxe, we wanted to create a celebratory bottle and liquid, one that could be gifted as a present or opened to commemorate an accomplishment.

In YoboKish, we wanted to create a ‘professional’ product for more advanced mixologists and cocktail enthusiasts.

In Hunni Soju, we wanted a format that would be conducive for trial, a single-serve, easy-to-drink, flavored soju that people could grab and go – to the beach, a picnic, golfing, and more.

And in KTOWN Soju, we wanted to take everything we’ve ever loved about eating and drinking in Korea town and take the experience of KTOWN to wherever the bottle goes. In fact, the design of the glass is made to look like a flask and the liquid is fruity, sweet, and welcoming to any first-time soju drinker.

WHAT SETS YOBO SOJU APART

Most people don’t realize that soju is the largest-selling spirit in the world by volume, outselling vodka, tequila, and whiskey in total cases. Despite its market size, most soju on the market are very similar – inexpensive liquid housed in small green bottles.

It wasn’t until more recently that more premium soju products arrived. But what makes our full line of products unique is our identity as a Korean American company and brand. There’s a generational shift in thinking about what soju could be in the United States and we intend to produce soju that is as beautifully designed as any other spirit you’d find on the shelf and of the highest quality.

Our glass is custom. Our liquid is all-natural and free from artificial coloring, flavors, or sweeteners. While we do our best to communicate our differences through our marketing communications, the best proof is when somebody tries our soju. If you’ve had other soju before, the difference is unmistakable.

JOHN’S GOALS AND VISION FOR YOBO SOJU

I started as CEO in 2021 and since then we’ve accomplished so much. The business has grown 50x in annual case volume with the expansion of its portfolio and is now distributed in more than 30 states. We’re about to launch major brand collaborations and product integration in the upcoming Joyride movie by Adele Lim.

We’ve poured at places like the Sundance Film Festival and Food & Wine Classic in Aspen. But beyond the business milestones, I believe what we’re doing is significant and will spark the imagination of others to follow.

Our mission has been to elevate the Korean American spirit by breaking boundaries, from the way we think about the liquid that constitutes soju to the communities we aim to reach. The world doesn’t need another tequila or vodka and yet much of the industry only sees opportunities in large, established markets.

As a Korean American, I know the power of the minority mindset and the impact that can be made by a few. Small is where everyone starts. We had two events just recently, a pride event at a fashion/design studio called Bobblehaus where we showcased KTOWN soju, and Food & Wine in Aspen where we showcased Kristen Kish’s aperitifs.

It was such an amazing experience pouring our drinks for people, explaining soju, introducing our products, and seeing everyone’s reactions. Some might overlook Asian American spirits right now because of its market size or lack of movie star endorsers, but from the view down here, we see a community building around us filled with faces of every identity and color sharing and enjoying soju with us.

THE IMPACT OF YOBO SOJU

The greatest impact Yobo has had is its personal impact on me.

I grew up in a small town in Texas and our family was the first Korean family in our neighborhood. When we arrived, the community of Korean Americans in my elementary school was limited to me and my brother (for the one year we overlapped). For most of my life, I struggled with my own Korean American identity and felt like I needed to find ways to be less ‘Korean’ to succeed.

I’ve had an entrepreneurial career having built and sold an advertising agency before Yobo in an industry where just like my elementary school, I was only one of a few Asian Americans along with my Chinese American partner. We built the agency up and sold it to a French holding company where we continued to grow the business. In that time, we worked with mass, established, ‘American’ brands that played very little in contributing to Asian American identity and culture. We were successful by all business standards, but regretfully, we contributed very little to our Asian American community.

At the time of joining Yobo as its CEO, the stories of hate crimes against Asian Americans started to surface. Here I am, a Korean American CEO of a Korean American company amidst a breakout of hatred toward a community I rarely embraced. It was the unfortunate wake-up call I required to find pride in my identity and to take more roles in paving the way for other Asian Americans more seriously. My Yobo journey has been profound, and instead of hiding my Korean-ness, I’m now on a mission to share it.

We have a few things lined up that I’m excited to share and announce. Beyond launching products and selling them into accounts, we’re here to make a statement. The Yobo organization is very small, a minority among minorities, but we believe we’ll make an outsized impact.

CONNECT WITH YOBO SOJU

Instagram: @yobosoju

Website: yobosoju.com

Stories

Empowering the Future: Jason Chan on Uplifting Communities

“Hustle is more than just work, it is a movement that can change the world,” Jason Chan, Chief of Staff to AT&T President of the West Region and Director of External Affairs.

Inspired by the hustle, sacrifice, and unwavering determination of his family and the first generation of Asian American immigrants, Jason felt a profound calling to make a difference for his community. This passion led him to a career in government affairs and advocacy, where he focuses on fostering collaboration between government entities, corporations, and organizations to create policies that truly support and uplift the communities they serve.

A Tale of Challenge and Inspiration

“I’ve been inspired by the countless stories of resilience and perseverance within our community,” states Jason. As a member of the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) community, he is driven by a deep sense of responsibility to honor the legacy of those who paved the way before him—laying the groundwork for future generations.

Jason emphasizes that success is rarely a linear journey, and challenges are an inevitable part of the process. One of the most significant obstacles in his career has been navigating roles where AANHPIs are underrepresented, particularly in decision-making positions. This lack of representation has required Jason to work even harder to demonstrate his value, advocate for diversity, and ensure that the AANHPI community receives the recognition it deserves.

What helped Jason overcome these challenges was leaning on a strong network of allies and mentors who believed in his vision and capabilities. He came to see setbacks not as failures but as opportunities for learning, growth, and redefining what’s possible. Jason firmly believes that the key to overcoming hardships lies in surrounding yourself with people who inspire, uplift, and challenge you to reach your fullest potential.

“During my time as Appointments Secretary for then-Mayor Gavin Newsom, it wasn’t always easy to challenge existing systems and push for diverse appointments. But I stayed committed to my belief that representation matters, and over time, those efforts led to tangible changes in the city’s leadership.” Jason exclaims.

The experience further solidified Jason’s conviction in the power of creating spaces for diverse voices and perspectives. It served as a powerful reminder that meaningful change becomes achievable when people unite and collaborate. With this belief at heart, Jason remains dedicated to his mission of uplifting others and dismantling the barriers that hinder progress.

Jason believes that overcoming hardships lies in surrounding yourself with people who inspire, uplift, and challenge you to reach your fullest potential.

From Dreams to Success

Jason has achieved numerous milestones, including being named Chairman of both the Asian Pacific American Institute for Congressional Studies (APAICS) and the California Asian Pacific Islander Legislative Caucus Institute (CAPILCI). These prestigious positions highlight his dedication to advocating for the representation and equity of the AANHPI community. Through these roles, Jason has been able to directly influence policies at both the national and state levels while fostering leadership development for the next generation.

In his current role at AT&T, Jason has demonstrated his commitment to supporting the AANHPI and LGBTQ+ communities through strategic partnerships, building strong relationships with stakeholders, and advocating for initiatives and policies that promote diversity and inclusion. His efforts have resulted in stronger connections, increased visibility for underrepresented groups, and meaningful investments in fostering equity and inclusion. However, Jason’s proudest accomplishment lies in the mentorship and guidance he has provided to emerging leaders, helping to shape the next generation of changemakers.

Jason shares with Asian Hustle Network, “Never underestimate the power of your story and the impact you can make. Our journeys, no matter how humble or challenging, hold immense value. They shape who we are and inspire others to dream bigger and aim higher.”

For Jason, the most rewarding achievement of his journey is witnessing the leaders he has mentored make meaningful contributions to their communities and careers. To him, success is not measured by personal accolades but by the impact one has on others and the legacy of opportunities created for future generations.

Success and the Journey Ahead

Jason’s vision is to create pathways that empower individuals to reach their full potential and, in turn, give back to their communities. He is dedicated to uplifting the Asian community by ensuring policies and decisions reflect our stories, perspectives, and needs. Through his work, he hopes to inspire others to take bold steps toward achieving greater representation and making their voices heard.

Jason affirms, “Let’s continue to hustle—not just for our personal ambitions, but for the collective success of our community. Together, we can create a future where every voice is heard, every dream is supported, and every barrier is broken.”

Connect With Jason

Facebook: Jason Chan

Linkedin: Jason C.

Twitter: Jason Chan

Instagram: @jayson326

Jan 16, 2025
5 min read

News

Việt Nam Vô Địch: The Phenomenon of “Đi Bão”

“Đi bão! Đi bão!” “Việt Nam vô địch, Việt Nam vô địch!” Chanted the brewing crowd filling Vietnam’s streets after the nation won the AFF Cup.

As the world witnessed the triumph of Vietnam’s soccer team, foreigners and tourists coming to Vietnam were captivated by something else, đi bão.

The term đi bão is an Internet term that the Vietnamese people coined to describe a parade-like occasion to express national pride, the latest example being the AFF Cup celebration. Through the victory, the term has risen into international popularity as a cultural phenomenon in Vietnam.

On the surface level, foreigners would witness Vietnamese people flooding the street on their motorcycles, cheering, and raising flags. Yet, in a deeper investigation, the term đi bão defies translation. To a Vietnamese, the definition of the term is as foreign to any expat, yet it invokes a meaning, a feeling, a glorious aspect of Vietnamese culture that anyone on this earth can understand as if it were their mother tongue. Pride.

*People flooded the streets at 1 A.M. to celebrate Vietnam winning the AFF Cup (Image Source: Báo Phụ Nữ)*

As the Vietnam soccer team won over Thailand in the AFF Cup, everyone knew what was going down. Silence. Then horns blared, motorbike engines revved, and metal clanged as thousands of flags were raised. Was it the spirit of football? Unlikely. What Vietnamese people love the most is a chance to gather and celebrate, cheering for their national flag.

*Pots and pans were used during ‘đi bão’ to support the cheering effort (Image source: Lao Động)*

*Thousands of Vietnamese rejoice as the match ends, signifying Vietnam’s triumph (Image Source: Hải Long, Dân Trí)*

Đi bão is a one-night chance for the Vietnamese people to parade, to party, and to celebrate a collective victory of the nation. The people dressed in red with a smear of yellow makeup, the color of the Vietnamese flag, as bikers violated every traffic rule imagined. It didn’t matter, as everyone was in a sense of euphoria. Cheeky cardboard signs went up, shirts went off, and occasionally, a person too hyped for the occasion would lead the crowd’s chant.

*The people of Hanoi raise their glasses and celebrate (Image source: Mạnh Quân, Dân Trí)*

*A son and dad celebrating Vietnam’s victory (Image source: Nam Anh, Dân Trí)*

*A man in a costume leads the crowd (Image source: VOV)*

Đi bão beautifully reflects an element of Vietnam’s culture, the Vietnamese identity. The emotions and the experience transcend beyond any boundaries, borders, and football team. It was the loud sounds filled with excitement and pride that made the term đi bão so understandable and relatable. It was the collective joy that made even foreigners experience what it is like to be a Vietnamese for a night.

*Tiến Linh [left], Duy Mạnh [middle], Xuân Son [right] in AFF Cup 2024 (Image source: Mạnh Quân, Dân Trí)*

Jan 8, 2025
3 min read

Awaken* newsletter

Transforming Access to Credit: A Conversation with Kristy Kim, Founder & CEO of TomoCredit

In this month’s edition of the Awaken* Newsletter, we speak with Kristy Kim, Founder and CEO of TomoCredit, a fintech startup focused on improving access to credit for underserved consumers. By using AI to evaluate real-time cash flow data rather than traditional credit scores, TomoCredit connects consumers with lenders.

Kristy discusses her journey as an immigrant, an Asian female founder, and an entrepreneur working to transform the financial industry. Through her leadership, TomoCredit aims to provide more people with better access to capital and lending opportunities.

Can you start by giving us an overview of your company and what you’re trying to solve?

Kristy Kim: Sure! At TomoCredit, our mission is to bridge the gap between underserved consumers and lenders using AI technology. We are focused on serving individuals who have been left behind by traditional financial systems, especially those without credit scores or with limited credit history.

There are millions of people in the U.S. who are underbanked, and the financial institutions that could potentially help them either don’t have access to their data or don’t understand their risk profile. We leverage AI to evaluate consumers based on their cash flow instead of relying solely on traditional credit scores. This enables us to match these individuals with lenders who are willing to serve them without taking on additional risk. Our platform helps both consumers and lenders—consumers get access to capital, and lenders expand their market in a low-risk way.

What motivated you to start TomoCredit?

As a first-generation immigrant from South Korea, I moved to the U.S. at eleven. In my early twenties, I faced the challenges of building my own credit history. After graduating from UC Berkeley, I worked in investment banking.

Despite having a stable income, I was denied an auto loan five times because I lacked a credit score. This experience highlighted a significant gap in the financial system, where many immigrants, young adults and many other underserved communities are excluded due to the absence of a credit history. After being turned down multiple times, I knew something had to change. I saw that the traditional credit system wasn’t serving millions of people, particularly immigrants, who had the ability to repay but lacked a credit history to prove it.

That experience of being excluded from the financial system really motivated me to find a way to help people like myself access the credit they needed. Determined to address this issue, I founded TomoCredit to provide credit solutions for those who, like me, struggle to access traditional credit avenues.

I wanted to create a system that didn’t rely on traditional credit scores but instead used alternative data, like cash flow, to assess creditworthiness. The idea was to connect underserved consumers to lenders in a way that wouldn’t increase their risk. TomoCredit was born out of this desire to make the financial system more inclusive—so others wouldn’t face the same rejections I did, and would have the chance to access capital and thrive.

As an immigrant founder, have you faced any challenges or biases in fundraising or building relationships with big institutions?

Kristy Kim: Yes, there are definitely challenges that come with being an immigrant founder, and at times, it can feel like an uphill battle. But, interestingly, my background has also played to my advantage.

As an immigrant, I have a unique lens on the problems facing underserved communities. I know firsthand what it’s like to struggle with the traditional credit system. I’ve faced the same barriers that many of our customers face, and that gives me an edge when I’m speaking to financial institutions. I’m able to say, “Look, I know my customers better than anyone else. These people are creditworthy, but they’re being overlooked by the traditional system.”

There is some bias, of course, especially when you’re dealing with legacy institutions, but I think they also recognize that I bring something different to the table—an intimate understanding of the market and the customers they often don’t have access to. Lenders are willing to listen because they know that by partnering with us, they can expand their pool of potential customers without taking on additional risk.

You’ve been in this industry for over five years now. What keeps you motivated despite the challenges you’ve faced?

Kristy Kim: That’s a great question. Honestly, the progress we’ve made keeps me motivated. Every year, I see the interest in our approach growing, and it reinforces that we’re heading in the right direction.

When we first started, it felt like I was an outsider trying to convince traditional financial institutions to embrace an entirely new way of evaluating credit. But now, year after year, we see more and more mainstream players realizing that there’s a huge market for underserved consumers—and that these consumers are creditworthy if we just use the right tools to understand them. It’s exciting to be at the forefront of this change.

For me, it’s not just about building a business—it’s about creating lasting impact. The U.S. consumer credit industry is worth over $4 trillion, and the fact that we are focusing on a largely ignored segment of that market feels like we’re making a real difference. And, of course, as a founder, seeing our technology evolve and improve with time and data is incredibly motivating.

How does your solution differ from other competitors in the market who are also targeting underserved consumers?

Kristy Kim: The key differentiator is that we don’t just rely on traditional credit scores to assess risk.

Our AI model is powered by cash flow data—essentially, we evaluate consumers based on their spending and income patterns, which gives a far more accurate picture of their financial health. Over the past five years, we’ve accumulated a wealth of data that allows us to refine our model, and with every new data point, we get better at underwriting.

Unlike competitors who may be using generic data or building from scratch, we have a more granular understanding of how underserved consumers behave financially. Additionally, the beauty of our system is that we’re not just looking at data from one financial institution—we’re aggregating data from multiple sources. Our customers might have accounts with multiple banks, and that gives us a fuller picture of their financial habits. In comparison, other companies might only have access to data from one bank, which limits their ability to assess risk accurately.

As a founder, what has been the most rewarding part of your journey so far, and what has been the hardest?

Kristy Kim: The most rewarding part has been seeing the validation from both the industry and our customers. When leaders of financial institutions tell me that TomoCredit makes sense, it’s incredibly validating. It’s a feeling of affirmation that, yes, we’re on the right path. But it’s also rewarding to see the real-world impact we’re having on people’s lives. We’ve helped thousands of people access capital who otherwise wouldn’t have had the chance.

On the flip side, the hardest part has been dealing with the mental burden of being a startup founder. When things are going well, it feels like everything is moving at full speed, but when challenges arise—whether it’s fundraising hurdles, market uncertainty, or hiring struggles—the pressure is immense. Unlike larger companies with more resources, startups have less margin for error. It can feel like one wrong move could jeopardize everything, and that can be emotionally exhausting. But it’s in those moments that you really find your resilience, and you learn that, no matter how tough it gets, you have to push forward.

As a seasoned founder, what key lessons from your previous startup experience have you applied to building TomoCredit?

When I launched my first company, I was in my early twenties, full of energy but lacking experience. It was a trial-and-error journey, where I learned a lot, but I quickly realized that having a clear vision and understanding the real impact you want to make is crucial.

Starting TomoCredit was a completely different experience. This time, I approached it with a clear strategy, having learned the importance of tackling a problem that I was personally passionate about. My previous startup experience taught me how to make more strategic decisions, prioritize what matters most, and stay resilient through the inevitable ups and downs of entrepreneurship.

What advice would you give to aspiring founders, particularly those who may be feeling discouraged after a tough year?

Kristy Kim: My advice would be to stay grounded in your purpose and conviction. It’s easy to get distracted by the ups and downs of the startup world, but at the end of the day, your mission should drive you more than the fear of failure or the setbacks you face along the way.

When I first started my company, it wasn’t about just building a business—it was about solving a real problem that I deeply cared about. The passion for the idea needs to be stronger than the fear of failure. Even if things don’t work out the way you hope, you can still be proud knowing that you tried to create something that could have made a real impact.

The most successful founders I know are the ones who are able to maintain a strong sense of purpose, even when it feels like everything is falling apart. If you believe in what you’re doing and are committed to the long-term vision, that will carry you through the hard times.

What are some recent key achievements or milestones that you’re excited to share?

Kristy Kim: Thanks for asking. First, our AI-driven platform continues to help underserved consumers access credit by using cash flow data to connect them with lenders.

We’ve also made significant strides in improving our underwriting capabilities by leveraging years of data to assess creditworthiness more accurately. This year, we paused issuing new credit cards to focus on refining our AI and underwriting technology. While we haven’t issued new cards yet, we’re still accepting customers and offering other financial services. Additionally, our partnerships with larger financial institutions are also growing, with increasing interest from major players. These collaborations are essential to our mission of expanding access to lending for underserved communities.

And lastly, on the team front, we’ve made several key hires, including the former CTO at Experian and the former CEO of LegalZoom. Their expertise in open banking and scaling high-growth companies will help us continue to expand our offerings and further our mission.

Looking ahead, what’s next for TomoCredit?

Kristy Kim: We’re expanding our offering, bringing more lenders into the network, and continuing to refine our AI technology to provide better risk assessments.

We’ve been growing the B2B side of our business over the last year, and we’re seeing significant interest from bigger players in the financial sector. We’re also planning to expand our product offerings to include more types of loans, like auto loans and mortgages, to help more customers get the access they need.

We’re also actively hiring, which is very exciting for us. We’re looking for a talented marketing person to help us build our brand and spread the word about what we’re doing. Our mission is to make financial access easier for everyone, and we’re excited to continue growing and impacting even more lives.

Kristy Kim’s journey proves that determination, a clear vision, and a deep understanding of your market can break through even the toughest barriers. At TomoCredit, she’s not just building a company; she’s seeking to reshape how credit is accessed, especially for those often left behind by traditional systems. Stay tuned for more updates on TomoCredit’s journey, and learn how they’re challenging the status quo while creating new opportunities for underserved communities.

Author: Donna Yu

Dec 9, 2024
11 min read

News

Jilly Bing Brings Riley, the First Doll to Celebrate Mixed Asian Heritage and Diversity

Jilly Bing, the company known for the Jilly Doll and its mission to break down stereotypes about Asian American girls, is once again pushing boundaries for its community. Celebrating its heritage, Jilly Bing is expanding its collection with the Riley Doll, a new character designed to represent mixed Asian and Caucasian backgrounds.

A Founder’s Dream

Elenor Mak, the Chinese American founder of Jilly Bing, was inspired by her search for a doll that reflected her daughter’s heritage. This pursuit brought the Jilly Doll to life as a collection aimed at bringing representation to playtime, helping Asian children make sense of the world, their identities, and the roots of their traditions.

Elenor Mak, the Chinese American founder of Jilly Bing with the Riley Doll (Left) and the Jilly Doll (Right).(Image source: Jilly Bing)

Mak stated to PR Newswire, “As the number of Americans identifying as mixed-race Asian grows, the Riley Doll offers children a reflection of their experiences, showing they can be 100% Asian, 100% Caucasian, and 100% themselves.”

From Dream To Reality

Riley is confident, loves snacks from her favorite Asian stores, and enjoys adventure. Mak continued, “The Riley Doll was created in response to strong consumer demand, as a mixed Asian doll was the top request from the Jilly Bing community. For so many of us, growing up meant feeling pressured to choose one side of our heritage. The Riley Doll is here to show kids they don’t have to choose—they can celebrate every part of who they are.”

The Riley Doll was created to help children celebrate their identity. (Image Souce: Jilly Bing)

The doll further propels Jilly Bing’s mission of bringing Asian American characters to life, representing the community’s diversity in backgrounds, appearances, interests, and personalities. Priced at $68, Riley is now available exclusively online at jillybing.com.

Featured Image Source: Jilly Bing

Dec 3, 2024
2 min read