Kena Wrap

Kena Wrap Thrives with Support from New Mexico Minority Business Development Agency

Kena Wrap, a unique headwrap business founded by Juperi Johnson, has seen remarkable growth and success, thanks to Johnson's resilience and the invaluable support from the New Mexico Minority Business Development Agency (NM MBDA).

Kena Wrap offers innovative headwraps designed to protect hair while sleeping and for daytime wear. These wraps are lightweight, durable, and made with a unique blend of soft satin and compression fabric, similar to those used in many leggings. Johnson created the first prototype out of necessity when her twin daughters were young, seeking a solution to keep their hair intact overnight.

Johnson started her LLC in November 2021, a few months after a successful Kickstarter campaign that funded the initial production of Kena Wraps. However, she faced the typical challenges of running a new business and sought additional resources and guidance.

A year into her journey, Johnson learned about NM MBDA through the Black Chamber of Commerce. This connection proved to be transformative for Kena Wrap.

NM MBDA provided professional headshots and facilitated the creation of a 90-second commercial, which Johnson was able to split into three 30-second commercials. These assets have been crucial for marketing and pitch competitions.

“The resources have been invaluable, I honestly can’t tell you what that has done for my business,” Johnson said.

NM MBDA's events and networking opportunities allowed Johnson to make significant contacts and connections. She highlighted the importance of social media in building a supportive community and gaining inspiration from others. With NM MBDA's guidance, Johnson is now pursuing government contracts, a new direction for Kena Wrap.

Johnson emphasizes the financial benefits of professional services and the strategic advantages of knowledge and networking she has received from NM MBDA. She has passed on these lessons to her daughters, involving them in the business and inspiring them to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. She hopes that more business owners will take advantage of the resources available through the NM MBDA.

“Take the first step and reach out, just reach out, it took me one email, to email the MBDA business advisor, and just like that, I mean I was in here probably in the same week,” Johnson said.

Johnson advises startups and small business owners to be resilient. She emphasizes the importance of being one's own cheerleader and leveraging available resources. She encourages others to reach out to organizations like NM MBDA, as the support can be transformative. Kena Wrap's journey from a simple idea to a thriving business is a testament to Johnson's determination and the critical support from NM MBDA.