In Boone County, when you think of Thrivent Financial, you think of Jill Anding. She was born and raised in Albion and decided to build her business right where she grew up. Recently, Jill graduated from our Energizing Entrepreneurs program, which is a $5,000 grant that helps new entrepreneurs get their businesses off the ground. We sat down with her to chat about what she does, her advice to new entrepreneurs, and how Energizing Entrepreneurs helped her business.
Tell Us About Thrivent Financial And What You Do
Thrivent Financial is a membership-owned organization committed to providing advice, investments, insurance, banking, and generosity programs to help people make the most of all they’ve been given.
JA: Essentially, we help people build their financial futures, plan for retirement, and build more generous lives.
Jill is a financial advisor serving Boone County and the surrounding areas.
JA: My goal is to establish an ongoing relationship with you to help you reach your financial goals through a curated and comprehensive financial plan.
Did Growing Up In Albion Affect Your Decision To Start Your Own Business?
Growing up in Albion provided Jill with a strong sense of community. When she was younger, her mom owned and operated a cafe downtown. This was where Jill saw firsthand how a strong work ethic can lead to success.
JA: The great thing about growing up here is that I feel like I know everyone. The community’s support has been phenomenal, and I’m very grateful.
As she grew up, Jill would continually see local business owners who were ready to retire but didn’t have a plan. This was one of the reasons she was inspired to get into financial planning.
What has been the most rewarding part of owning a business in Boone County?
Not only does Albion and Boone County provide a strong sense of community, but it also is home to some amazing and supportive clientele.
JA: Having people trust me with their financial futures, as it’s very personal, and helping people retire comfortably is very rewarding.
What Advice Do You Have For New Entrepreneurs in Boone County?
JA: You need to have perseverance to run a business.
A few things Jill recommends, especially when getting started, are to network and get involved. When people see you in the community, it builds trust and shows that you’re willing to get involved.
JA: I think it’s important to get involved in your community and to give back, even if it’s just your time.
What Are Some Organizations You're Involved In?
JA: I’m on the Boone County Foundation Fund board, a Teammates Mentor, a part of the VFW Auxiliary, enrolled in the Boone County Leadership Academy, and active in Habitat for Humanity.
How Did Energizing Entrepreneurs Help Your Business?
Energizing Entrepreneurs is a program created by BCDA to help entrepreneurs get started and stay on track throughout the first 4 years of their business. We walk you through everything from writing a business plan to planning for retirement.
JA: Energizing Entrepreneurs was very helpful when I started to have the extra boost for start-up expenses and signage. Throughout the years, it has also helped me with marketing my business.
