Dakota Batch is originally from Odessa, Texas. She attended The University of Texas at Austin where she received a Bachelor of Science degree in Textile and Apparel Design. After two years of working for a non-profit, Dakota decided to return to school and received her masters in textiles from North Carolina State University Wilson College of Textiles. Currently, Dakota is the project manager for the University organization Advancement of Women Entrepreneurs, while working on her Ph.D. Dakota’s research will focus on providing better support and resources for female entrepreneurs in rural communities of North Carolina.