Today we’d like to introduce you to Robert Lederhilger
Hi Robert, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Thank you so much for the opportunity to share my story! My journey has been a blend of entrepreneurship, faith, and a deep desire to create meaningful connections and give back to my community.
I founded SOLUENCY, a technology company dedicated to helping businesses thrive in a digital-first world. At SOLUENCY, we provide web development, web hosting, NFC Smart Business Cards, and AI solutions tailored to help businesses operate more effectively and innovate in their respective industries. Building this business has been a labor of love, and interestingly, networking played a pivotal role in its growth. I quickly learned that relationships are the foundation of any successful endeavor. By attending countless networking events, sharing my vision, and meeting people where they’re at, I’ve been able to grow SOLUENCY into what it is today.
Beyond business, I’ve always felt a strong pull to give back to the community that has shaped me. This desire became a reality when I started a Bible study group at my local church. The group was open to small business owners and professionals, and it served as a space where we could connect over faith, offer encouragement, and share professional insights. I was amazed by the warmth and support that came from this community.
From this Bible study, the idea for Kingdom Business Builders—my nonprofit—was born. I kept hearing stories from business owners about how they needed more than just technical or financial solutions; they needed community, resources, and sometimes just someone to offer support. This sparked something in me. I began envisioning an organization that could provide support beyond the spreadsheets and strategies—a nonprofit that could serve as a true partner to small businesses in need. To my delight, the response from the community was overwhelming, and in 2024, Kingdom Business Builders officially launched.
For me, Kingdom Business Builders represents everything I believe in—lifting others up, fostering collaboration, and ensuring that small businesses have the resources and encouragement they need to succeed. It’s incredibly humbling to see how much impact we can have when we come together with purpose and shared values.
Where I am today is the result of not just the work I’ve done but the incredible people I’ve met along the way. My story is a testament to the power of faith, networking, and community, and I’m so excited for what lies ahead as SOLUENCY and Kingdom Business Builders continue to grow.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Starting a nonprofit has been a humbling and faith-filled experience for me. I’ve successfully launched and grown for-profit businesses before, but entering the nonprofit world was entirely foreign territory. I knew this path would come with its own set of challenges, and I leaned on support, guidance, and prayer throughout the process.
One of the first obstacles I faced was understanding how to even begin. Back in February 2024, I reached out to LegalAid of Manasota for help, but they informed me that finding an attorney to assist could take a long time. While I was waiting, they suggested I connect with SCORE, which turned out to be a true blessing. Through SCORE, I was introduced to an incredible mentor, Lloyd Nurick. With over 40 years of experience launching and growing nonprofits, Lloyd was a goldmine of knowledge. Together, we created a business plan and built the foundation needed to take the next step.
By May 2024, LegalAid connected me with a pro bono attorney. I was able to pass along the groundwork I had done with Lloyd, and she helped me file the 501(c)(3) application with the IRS. To my surprise (and delight!), our IRS determination letter was approved by July 2024. I had originally prepared myself for the process to take nine months to a year or even longer. This quick turnaround was nothing short of miraculous.
There were, of course, smaller bumps along the way. For example, when I filed for Articles of Incorporation with the State of Florida, I discovered that someone else had already registered the name “Kingdom Business Builders.” Thankfully, it was inactive. I reached out to the individual who owned the name, and they graciously agreed to transfer it to us.
Through it all, God was guiding every step. I had braced myself for overwhelming challenges but found that the process, while unfamiliar, was made easier through divine intervention and incredible support.
That said, the road post-launch has come with its struggles. I was optimistic that we’d quickly sign up paying members for our nonprofit to carry out our mission—providing resources for those impacted by the justice system to thrive as entrepreneurs. However, to this day, we don’t have any paying members. That was a tough reality to face because, without paying members, we’re unable to accomplish all the work we’ve envisioned.
Despite this, the Holy Spirit placed it on my heart to continue hosting our weekly meetings for free. My hope is that by growing the size of our community organically, we’ll build trust, demonstrate our value, and eventually attract paying members when the time is right. It’s a lesson in patience, faith, and perseverance, and I’m reminded daily to trust the process.
Launching a nonprofit has been a mix of challenges, growth, and unexpected guidance, but every step of the way, I’ve seen how faith and determination can make the seemingly impossible possible.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Q: Please tell us more about your business or organization. What should we know? What do you do, what do you specialize in / what are you known for?
At Kingdom Business Builders, we’re more than just a nonprofit organization – we’re a mission-driven community. Our focus is to create an ethical marketplace where buyers and sellers can interact with trust and mutual respect. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and our mission extends beyond helping businesses thrive; we’re dedicated to empowering those impacted by the justice system to rebuild their lives through entrepreneurship.
What sets us apart is that your membership with Kingdom Business Builders serves a dual purpose. It gives you access to invaluable resources designed to grow your business—such as our online directory, weekly meetings blending networking and Bible study, and tools like trust seals for your storefront or website—but it also directly supports our mission. Membership dues go toward offering training and resources for individuals with criminal records, helping them overcome employment barriers and launch their own businesses.
Q: What sets you apart from others?
Kingdom Business Builders stands out because we approach business with a purpose-driven mindset. Many networking organizations focus purely on profits or professional growth. We take it a step further by grounding everything we do in integrity, faith, and community impact.
Our weekly meetings are not just about networking—they are also a space for devotional-based reflection and exchanging ideas grounded in core values. Additionally, our unique offerings, such as the Website Trust Seal and NFC-enabled decals for storefronts, build credibility for our members while showing the world that their businesses are reputable and ethical.
What truly distinguishes us is our commitment to those facing second chances. We believe everyone deserves an opportunity to succeed, and we use our resources to equip individuals impacted by the justice system with the tools to become entrepreneurs. It’s about changing lives and communities—one business at a time.
Q: What are you most proud of brand-wise?
We’re most proud of the community we’ve built—a space where integrity, trust, and faith intersect. Our membership includes entrepreneurs and professionals with a shared passion for succeeding ethically and helping others do the same. Seeing our members grow their businesses while contributing to a larger purpose is incredibly fulfilling.
But perhaps what we’re most humbled by is the impact we’re making on the lives of those who’ve faced significant challenges. Helping someone transform their mistakes into a thriving business by giving them the tools, resources, and confidence—that’s a legacy we’re proud of.
Q: What do you want our readers to know about your brand, offerings, services, etc.?
At Kingdom Business Builders, we offer far more than just networking opportunities. Here’s what you’ll receive as part of our community:
KBB Directory Listing: A tool to connect your business with consumers who are actively seeking trustworthy and reputable services.
Exclusive Weekly Meetings: A perfect balance of professional networking and spiritual growth through devotionals and reflective discussions designed to guide entrepreneurs living out their faith in the marketplace.
Website Trust Seal & NFC-enabled Window Decals: A visible symbol to show your clients that you’re a vetted, ethical, and reputable business they can trust.
Mission Impact: By joining, you’re directly contributing to our efforts of helping formerly incarcerated individuals build careers through entrepreneurship.
Think of it as a combination of a networking group, a Chamber of Commerce, and the Better Business Bureau—but with a moral and community-based purpose. If you’re looking for a way to grow your business while making a real impact, Kingdom Business Builders is for you. Join us, and together, we can promote business integrity and change lives.
Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
Absolutely. The Covid-19 crisis was a wake-up call for many of us, personally and professionally. One of the most significant lessons I learned is the importance of adaptability and resilience. The pandemic threw challenges at us that no one could have predicted, and it became clear very quickly that the ability to pivot and respond to change was not just valuable—it was essential for survival.
Another key takeaway was recognizing the power of technology. During lockdowns, leveraging digital tools became our lifeline for maintaining business continuity and reaching our customers. Whether it was transitioning to remote work, ramping up online ordering capabilities, or simply staying connected with clients, technology gave us the ability to stay engaged and keep moving forward.
The crisis also underscored the irreplaceable value of community. Seeing people, businesses, and organizations come together to support one another during such challenging times was incredibly inspiring. It reinforced for me that while we all have individual responsibilities, collaboration and mutual support can make an enormous difference, especially in difficult moments.
On a personal level, the pandemic highlighted the need for agility in business strategies. Old plans and models may not work in unprecedented situations, and that’s okay. What’s important is to keep improving, remain flexible, and stay committed to solving problems as they arise. It’s a mindset I’ll carry forward long after the crisis has passed.
Pricing:
- $777 Annual Membership
- Free devotionals delivered to your inbox
- Visit a meeting for free
Contact Info:
- Website: https://kingdombusiness.builders/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertlederhilger/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@KingdomBusinessBuilders941/
- Other: https://kingdomsmartcards.com/@Rob
Image Credits
Robert W. Lederhilger III
