Number 358 January 2, 2026 St. Louis
From Medical Insight to Market Innovation: Jennifer Martin & Clean Blends
Yolanda Nelson and Jennifer Martin at Justine PETERSEN’s Holiday Party
Jennifer Martin has spent years helping people navigate health through her work in the medical field, particularly in nutrition and weight management. Over time, she noticed a recurring challenge among patients and clients alike: eating safely outside the home was often stressful, limiting, and unpredictable—especially for those with allergies or medically guided diets.
That challenge became the foundation for Clean Blends, a business focused on creating clean-ingredient, portable flavor products that allow people to enjoy meals confidently wherever they are. Designed to be allergen-conscious, travel-friendly, and transparent in their ingredients, Clean Blends is filling a long-overlooked gap in the food space.
As Jennifer prepared to grow her business, she joined the Ignite Illinois program through the Justine PETERSEN organization after being referred by First Community Credit Union. Over the course of 10 weeks, she worked closely with W4E, receiving hands-on coaching that helped her refine her business model, strengthen her financial projections, and develop a clearer operational structure.
“The Ignite Illinois experience gave me the clarity and confidence I needed to move forward,” Jennifer shared. “I walked away with a stronger plan and a better understanding of how to build a sustainable business.”
With rising demand for clean-label food options and limited innovation in portable condiments, Clean Blends is entering the market at the right time. Supported by Ignite Illinois and W4E, Jennifer is now moving forward with a clear roadmap and positioning Clean Blends for long-term growth and impact.
Grow Your Business This Year!
Join the free Lunch-and-Learn Series brought to you efactory and Missouri State University
We’re excited to share that the Show-Me Network, in partnership with Justine PETERSEN, is launching a yearlong series of FREE virtual Lunch-and-Learns for entrepreneurs and small business owners across Missouri.
Starting this Thursday, January 15, 2026, these no-cost sessions will provide practical guidance on funding, credit, financial management, and business growth—designed to meet entrepreneurs where they are and help them move forward with confidence.
⏰ All sessions are held online from Noon–1 p.m. (CT)
💻 Open to all Missouri entrepreneurs at no cost
🎤 Kicking Off the Series — January 15
We’re proud to share that Justine PETERSEN’s own Bruce Greene will be the first speaker in the series, presenting:
From Personal to Professional: Mastering Your Credit Story
📅 Thursday, January 15 | Noon–1 p.m. (CT)
Learn how your personal credit impacts your ability to secure business financing, uncover common credit myths, and walk away with actionable steps to strengthen your financial readiness before pursuing capital.
📅 Upcoming Sessions
Show Me the Money: Your SSBCI Funding Playbook
January 29 | Noon–1 p.m. (CT)
Learn how SSBCI programs expand access to capital and what it takes to qualify.
Self-Fund, Borrow, or Partner Up? Pick Your Funding Adventure
February 12 | Noon–1 p.m. (CT)
Explore the pros and considerations of bootstrapping, borrowing, and equity investment.
✅ Register Today!
All sessions are free and open to the public.
View the full calendar and register here:
👉 ShowMeNetwork.org/calendar
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain practical tools, expert insight, and connections that support your business growth in 2026.
Upcoming Events
The First Lunch and Learn of 2026!
Register by scanning the QR Code or go to bit.ly/48L17xg
Start the New Year on the Right Financial Path
If improving your credit or gaining more control over your finances is one of your goals this year, Justine PETERSEN’s My Credit Compass is here to help. This free program offers personalized credit coaching, easy-to-understand guidance, and ongoing support to help you move forward—no matter where you’re starting from.
You don’t have to figure it out alone. With My Credit Compass, you’ll gain clarity, confidence, and a plan tailored to your financial goals.
Make this the year you take the first step.
👉 Enroll in My Credit Compass today and start building toward a stronger financial future.
JP QuickPay Is Here!
Want an easy $5?
When you enroll in JPQuickPay, you will get a $5 credit on your account in just a few clicks. Send your confirmation to JPQuickpay@justinepetersen.org.
JP Family Corner
Happy Birthday!!!
JPVersary
And many more!!!
Do You Follow Us On Social Media? Click the Icons Below to Get Started!!!
Copyright © |2020 Justine PETERSEN|, All rights reserved.
Want to change how you receive these emails?
You can update your preferences or unsubscribe from this list.
Justine Petersen Housing and Reinvestment Corporation · 1023 N Grand Blvd · Saint Louis, MO 63106-1641 · USA