In the heart of Raleigh, North Carolina, lies a beacon of style and innovation: HellBent, a boutique clothing collective founded by the visionary Anna Zarlinga. “I began HellBent 5 years ago as my Senior thesis at Cleveland Institute of Art,” Anna reflects, “and post-graduating, I was ‘recklessly determined’ to make it a reality.”
Amidst the challenges of the pandemic, Anna’s determination reached new heights. “During COVID, I took to IG and began heavily marketing, and my business skyrocketed during this time,” she explains. “I identified a need for clothing beyond screen print and came into private label.”
With her eye on expansion, Anna knew it was time to take the leap into a brick-and-mortar establishment. “I realized I could continue having temp moments of having a real store at my popups,” Anna shares, “and decided it was time to take a leap of faith.”
But turning this dream into reality required more than just vision—it required financial support. “I needed financial support to move forward,” Anna recalls, “and finding CCI was finding a gift.”
Working closely with Roxanne Reed, Brittany Hinds, and Atiya Ward at CCI, Anna found not just financial assistance but a team of dedicated allies invested in her success. “Roxanne helped me so much with figuring out forms, numbers, breakdown, business statements,” Anna praises. “Having Roxanne and so many other people in my corner made me cry happy tears with the amount of support!”
Today, HellBent stands as a testament to the power of perseverance and partnership. With tears of joy, Anna recommends CCI to others, knowing firsthand the difference it can make in turning dreams into reality. “CCI truly cares for people,” Anna affirms, “and finds creative ways to serve every person’s needs and goals.”
In the ever-evolving landscape of entrepreneurship, HellBent and Carolina Community Impact stand as beacons of inspiration, fostering growth, creativity, and empowerment—one small business at a time.
