Geoff Wilson, President & Founder of Three Five Two
1. Tell us about your business; and what is your business philosophy?
Three Five Two is an innovation and growth firm. Leading companies hire us to find billion-dollar opportunities, build killer new products and create hockey-stick growth.
We started here in Gainesville and now have offices in Atlanta and Tampa as well. Gainesville is a great place to start and run a business and we're proud our company name "Three Five Two" references the area code in which we started.
2. Why are you passionate about your commitment to United Way’s Community Investment Fund?
United Way supports many programs that are really making a difference in the community. United Way has also organized volunteer days for our company so our team can make their own impact on our community.
3. What is something interesting or surprising that most people don’t know about you?
I've been to every Gator football and basketball national championship win. It has been a great run, and I hope some more are in our future!
4. What would your older self say to your younger self?
Be disciplined about monitoring and understanding financials and metrics (and get outside help as needed). In our early years we were growing quickly but not always making the best decisions because we weren't disciplined about our financial management. Getting outside help and surrounding yourself with smart mentors is key, especially for younger entrepreneurs.
5. What’s your favorite quote?
"You only have to be right once." - I believe this was said in the movie The Founder about Ray Kroc and McDonalds. Failure is tuition; you gain learning that helps you with your next venture. You only have to be right once for it to all pay off.
Small businesses play a critical role in maintaining a thriving local economy. They are no less important to the success of United Way, as we endeavor to improve lives through our work in education, income, and health. Our Small Business United Partners are an important, growing family of donors, who are vital to helping us meet the needs of our community.
To learn more about how you and your business can support United Way, contact Amber Miller at amiller@unitedwayncfl.org or (352) 333-0856.