Starting a business is not for the faint of heart. Successfully building a company from the ground up requires determination, vision, and knowing how to utilize your resources. While some people might be able to get a company off the ground on their own, without a little help it can be difficult to maintain success.
Grivot Strategies is a fractional services provider founded in 2021 by its owner, Erin DeJong. With a commitment to fostering business growth across Indiana, Grivot strives to support companies of all sizes, with a special focus on locally owned and women-owned businesses. Grivot specializes in strategic marketing, revenue operations, community/partner engagement, and event strategy/management.
The pandemic was a challenging time for everyone. Many companies were forced to make tough decisions, and many individuals including DeJong had to re-evaluate their career path. With an executive background that equipped her with the skills and experience necessary to make a bold move, she leaned into her network of clients who were requesting consulting help. “Throughout my professional career I had often thought about pursuing my own business, and felt it was time to evaluate the sustainability of consulting,” she says.
DeJong decided to pivot. “My husband is my biggest cheerleader,” she says. “With his support, it felt like the opportune time to help small businesses bridge the gap between staffing needs and skill-set deficiencies.” It quickly evolved from consulting to providing fractional services, allowing Grivot to offer targeted expertise to address specific needs within clients’ companies.
As seen in a framed picture that resides in the office, the company’s name reflects its core values: “Grit” symbolizes a relentless work ethic fueled by the fire within, while “Pivot” represents where perseverance and opportunity meet. “Grit is a core family value for us – one that we’ve instilled in all four of our children,” DeJong says. “When life throws curveballs, we must remain nimble and ready to pivot.”
DeJong and her team embody these words every day, always working to ensure that each client feels supported and receives the resources they need to succeed.
A great example of the impact that Grivot has on its clients is Moon Drops Distillery in Fortville. The team played a critical role in executing a statewide brand and product launch. With the development of a comprehensive marketing plan that included operational strategies and amplifying brand awareness through strategic partnerships, they successfully positioned Moon Drops for continued growth.
DeJong remains the owner and maintains a very hands-on role within Grivot. She is passionate about what she does and truly cares about the people she works with.
“There are days that I wish I had more hours in the day to get things done,” she says. “It’s how I’m wired. Every day I’m excited to go to work.”
While Grivot continues to grow, DeJong and her team work every day to continue building sustainable partnerships and improving the services provided for clients. They understand how difficult it can be to start a company because, well, they’ve been there before.
