The Morgan Square, Channon Kennedy
I’m the founder of The Morgan Square, an innovative woodworking and carpentry measurement tool that improves accuracy and is compatible with most tape measures. This one-step measuring and marking tool is made of aluminum for durability, easy to use, and reduces time on projects.
I’ve spent over 26 years in commercial banking, working closely with startup founders and helping them navigate the early stage challenges they face. But I never expected that one day I would become a founder myself. The idea for The Morgan Square began in 2016. Years after a chance encounter while traveling. I met a woodworker who shared a simple concept, followed by a drawing of a square he imagined could make woodworking easier and more accurate. That conversation stayed with me. Eventually, I began researching patents, teaching myself the entire process, and exploring how to bring this idea to life.
Since then, what began as a side hustle has grown into a fully patented and trademarked product now sold through major retailers, including Hartville Hardware, Woodcraft stores nationwide, and most recently, Home Depot.
The Morgan Square is a patented, measuring, and marking tool designed for woodworkers, carpenters, makers, DIYers, and contractors. It combines multiple functions into one tool - reducing measurement errors, improving speed, and simplifying layout work.
What sets us apart isn't just the tool itself—it's the story and the representation behind it. As a Black woman founder in the tool and manufacturing industry, I’m part of a very small minority.
I was inspired by a combination of curiosity, opportunity, and a sense of purpose. I’ve always had a drive to finish what I start, and the idea of bringing a tool to life—especially in an industry where people who look like me are rarely represented—felt meaningful.
Seeing how few women, especially women of color, were exhibiting tool inventions at trade shows reinforced my mission. I wanted to show others that innovation is not limited by demographics and that you don’t need to follow a prescribed path to create something impactful.
The Morgan Square blends utility with representation. It’s an innovative tool built with precision—but it also stands for access, possibility, and challenging long-standing norms within the trade industry. Every order still feels like a gift I’m wrapping. Every sale is a vote of confidence that reminds me why this work matters.
As a self-taught founder navigating patents, financials, manufacturing, logistics, and branding, I recognized the need for experienced guidance. SCORE offered exactly that—a network of retired and seasoned business professionals willing to mentor entrepreneurs for free. I connected with a mentor who not only supported me personally but also brought in other experts when needed.
SCORE helped me understand my numbers, refine my business structure, and think strategically about next steps. My mentor walked me through everything from pricing and margins to trademarks and scaling. When he didn’t have an answer, he brought in someone who did.
That level of hands-on support made a huge difference—especially as a solo founder balancing a full-time career and a fast-growing product.
With SCORE’s support, I was able to complete my patent and trademark process, build a stronger financial system and forecasting structure, expand retail partnerships, increase annual sales, and confidently approach large retailers and buyers, scaling production and operations more strategically. The most significant milestone to date has been landing The Morgan Square in Home Depot, along with major specialty retailers nationwide. SCORE’s guidance helped prepare me for those pivotal conversations.
Dale is an amazing listener and challenges me intelligently. I love how he always asks thought-provoking questions, and when he's not sure about something, he finds someone who does know and is sure to close the loop. I appreciate Dale's commitment and thoughtful sense of humor about business wins and challenges.
Do it immediately. Even if you believe you “should already know” something, SCORE mentors will meet you where you are. They offer real-world advice, accountability, and clarity at moments when founders often feel alone or unsure.
Be intentional. Write down your goals and act on them consistently. Big or small, intentional action compounds. Give yourself grace, vet the people you do business with, and understand your financials early. Also know that prototyping, branding, and marketing will take longer (and cost more) than you expect. Take care of your mental and physical health—burnout helps no one. And above all, don’t let where you come from dictate where you’re going. If you feel called to build something, follow that curiosity. Start small, start messy—but start.
I specialize in executive coaching, business coaching, government contracting, exit strategy...
