My name is Sipha Lam and I’m the owner and operator of Wilder Wines, a natural wine shop located in downtown Burlington set to open Mid February. I fell in love with natural wine in 2013 and since have loved educating myself and friends about the benefits of consuming natural wines and have dreamt of being able to do so with the rest of the community. I’ve been in the service industry for over a decade and am inspired to continue to be in a city that is bursting with amazing food, beer and wine.  However, at a time when starting a business is more challenging than ever, I’m reaching out to my community for financial support. 

There are clear barriers to women, especially women of color when it comes to fundraising. As of 2019, WOC account for 50% of all women-owned businesses and generate $422.5 billion in revenue for the economy. Yet, out of $85 billion in VC funding last year, WOC received less than 1%. As said by Margot Dorfman, CEO of the US Women’s Chamber of Commerce, “the biggest hurdle women, particularly minority women, continue to face is access to capital.”

I believe with the support of my friends, family and community I can build an inclusive and thoughtful business that can be a positive contribution to this already amazing city. Burlington has been my home for nearly all my life and as a first generation American, being able to build a business in the city that my family first immigrated to is an honor. If you can’t donate right now, please share this campaign with friends and family. 

Thank you so much for your support and hope to see you in Wilder Wines this February!

Where your money is going:

-Initial Leasing Deposits

-Store furnishings ( Shelving )

-Inventory

-Licensing and Fees

Thank you for investing in the future of Wilder Wines