Stefan Di Benedetto - Funding, Branding & Breaking into Global Markets

In this episode ofFunded Futures, we sit down with Stefan Di Benedetto, the founder of SolBevi, to talk about his journey in bringing Australia's first canned Limoncello Spritz to market. From perfecting a family recipe to turning it into a thriving business, Stefan shares his experience navigating product development, branding, and the competitive beverage industry.We discuss the inspiration behind SolBevi, how he identified a gap in the market, and the challenges he faced transitioning from a construction career into the world of premium spirits. Stefan opens up about the learning curve of manufacturing, scaling, and securing retail partnerships—walking into venues with a bag of product samples and pitching it one bar at a time.Stefan reflects on his ongoing journey to raise capital, the mental and financial toll of investor negotiations, and why he’s weighing up crowdfunding as a strategic move. He also shares insights into brand positioning, marketing strategies, and the power of community-driven growth.With international expansion on the horizon, including a launch in New Zealand and potential markets in Southeast Asia, Stefan is setting his sights on global success. Whether you’re a founder looking to scale your business, an investor interested in the FMCG space, or just a lover of Limoncello, this episode is packed with honest insights and entrepreneurial grit.