About this idea
I launched my business in August of 2021, with the intent to provide attractively priced chocolate covered treats. I was looking to cater to a specific demographic of people who I could provide a positive and good experience for, through treats. Approximately 8 months into my business, my target customer shifted. There was an influx in requests for treat tables. I shifted with my business and went from smaller, individual orders, to primarily providing treat tables at weddings, graduations, private events, corporate events, company meetings, holiday parties, and business open houses. We are growing and at a point now where operational equipment is needed.
Impact
We have collaborated or provided treats with many local organizations to date and we try to give
back in creative ways. A few times throughout the year we donate treats to local businesses
who have a great social impact. Last year one organization was hosting a holiday party in which
they were honoring their donors. We provided chocolate covered treats as one of the gifts to be
included in the basket for the donors. One of our business goals for 2023, is to be profitable
enough to give back more to other organizations who are really impacting the City of Grand
Rapids in a positive way. We would also like to partner with some local organizations to be able
to start hosting chocolate dipping classes to inner city youth. With operational & upgraded
equipment we will be able to financially handle the task. Some of the local organizations we
have provided treats for or collaborated with are, Amplify, TheMuse, RDV, SpringGR, Armbrecht
& Wierenga Orthodontics, KnitIt, The Bat Dance (Damien Allen of Freedom Elevation, Adrian
Butler, Tardy’s Comic Bookstore & GR Comic Con), Mindset Meals, Urban Core Collective,
Experience GR, Latina Network of West Michigan, Grand Rapids Public Schools, Downtown
Nutrition The Social Suite, GR Media Initiative & Film Incubator, All-En Event Space, Load a
Spud, Allen Edwin Homes, Waxology & Woodland Mall.
What I'll do with $5,000
The grant would be used for equipment needed to increase sales and the businesses’ ROI. “The business currently spends roughly 55% of its sales on outside vendors who have operational equipment needed to fulfill some of our orders. Some examples are printing, labeling and cutting equipment. Our highest single order to date was $3,700 and $1,000 of that went to outside vendors needed to fulfill the order. Some of the funds would also go towards upgrading our food storage containers used for transporting to and from an event.
Links
About Lauren Osborne
AZÚCAR_AVE (Sugar_Ave), is a affordable indulgence providing custom chocolate covered treats.
