Birmingham’s Mixtroz Says Farewell After a Decade of Networking Magic
In a heartfelt announcement, Mixtroz, the trailblazing event app founded by a dynamic mother-daughter duo, is winding down operations after a successful decade of bringing people together. Yes, you heard it right! After ten years of making it easier for attendees to mingle and connect (without the awkwardness that often comes with networking), co-founders Kerry Schrader and Ashlee Ammons-Halpin are closing this chapter of their inspiring story.
From Nashville to Birmingham
Originally launched in the vibrant city of Nashville, Tennessee, Mixtroz made a significant move to Birmingham, Alabama, seeking opportunities in the innovative landscape of the Innovation Depot’s Velocity Accelerator. This relocation turned out to be a pivotal moment for the company, opening doors to new ventures and growth.
Funding That Fueled Their Passion
In a stroke of good fortune, the company also secured a whopping $100,000 investment from the Rise of the Rest (ROTR) Seed Fund, which is aimed at supporting budding entrepreneurs. This investment was not just a financial boost; it also marked a significant recognition of their vision, led by notable names such as forged entrepreneur and former AOL CEO Steve Case. Talk about a leap of faith!
The Magic of Mixtroz
So, what made Mixtroz so special? The app was designed to enhance the networking experience by using attendee-supplied data. Participants simply downloaded the app and answered a few multiple-choice questions. Based on their responses, they were grouped with others who had shared interests. This way, the awkward small talk was reduced, replaced instead by natural conversations that blossomed among like-minded individuals.
A Community Built on Connections
Since its inception, the mother-daughter team of Schrader and Ammons transformed Mixtroz into more than just an app; it turned into a thriving community. They captivated audiences, were celebrated for their achievements, and even made history as the 37th and 38th Black women in the United States to raise over $1 million in venture capital. Their journey has been a testament to innovation, perseverance, and the power of relationships.
Star-Studded Backgrounds
Before stepping into the tech world, both founders had fascinating careers. Ammons, hailing from Cleveland, Ohio, boasts an impressive resume, having been a first assistant to basketball star Lebron James, and even working alongside entertainment giants like Oprah Winfrey, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Jay-Z. No wonder she knows how to throw the ultimate networking party!
On the flip side, Schrader has crossed paths with several high-profile companies, including Ford Motor Co. and Sears Holdings Corp., gaining extensive experience in tech and business management.
Parting Words of Wisdom
As they prepare to bid adieu to the tech landscape, Schrader reflected on their journey, stating, “It’s been quite a ride. The ups, the downs, the incredible people we’ve met, and the lessons learned have all been worth it.” With their departure, an era of innovative networking comes to a close, but the memories and friendships fostered through Mixtroz will undoubtedly remain.
Looking to the Future
Although we say goodbye to Mixtroz, the impact of their work will surely echo in the kind of connections made at events throughout the years. Here’s to a legacy of bringing people together, one app at a time!
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
