Trucking Along, Living the Sweet Life

Kayce Ekpenike, a sophomore at the University of Houston, is defying the norm by successfully running her own business, Funnelocity Gourmet Funnel Cakes, alongside her academic pursuits. When asked how she manages it all, Ekpenike humorously admits, “That’s a great question. I’m still figuring that out now.”

Ekpenike's journey into the world of funnel cakes stems from her childhood memories in Louisiana. Recalling her early experiences with fairground funnel cakes, she remarked, “They were mediocre... They were small and crispy. But they were sweet, and I was young, so I really liked them.” Determined to elevate this classic treat, Ekpenike ventured into entrepreneurship, drawing inspiration from her family's history of business ownership.

With a passion for creating high-quality, unique funnel cakes, Ekpenike invested significant time in perfecting her recipes and exploring a variety of flavors and toppings. From traditional powdered sugar to extravagant combinations like ice cream, cheesecake bites, and Fruity Pebbles, Funnelocity's offerings aim to delight customers with every bite.

Despite majoring in biology with aspirations of becoming a doctor, Ekpenike's love for funnel cakes remains unwavering. She humorously notes, “We’re here for a good time, not a long time, you know? No calories. We don’t do that.” Ekpenike credits the University of Houston for providing her the flexibility to balance her academic and entrepreneurial endeavors seamlessly.

As Funnelocity's popularity surged during the pandemic, Ekpenike expanded her business to include mobile food trucks, custom-built to serve her delectable creations on the go. Recognizing the support of her community, friends, and family as integral to her success, Ekpenike remains grateful for their unwavering encouragement.

Looking ahead, Ekpenike envisions continuing the food truck model for Funnelocity while navigating the demands of medical school in the future. She advises aspiring entrepreneurs to persevere through challenges, learn from mistakes, and seek help when needed, emphasizing the importance of resilience in business.

To track the locations of Funnelocity's trucks and indulge in their mouthwatering treats, followers can connect with the business on Instagram. For those overwhelmed by choices, Ekpenike recommends trying the "Strawberry Cheesecake" funnel cake, a delightful blend of flavors that encapsulates the essence of Funnelocity's sweet success.