The Inspiring Rise of Partake Foods: A Story of Black Women Entrepreneurs

Partake Foods, a company specializing in delicious and nutritious allergy-friendly snacks, is a testament to the power of black women entrepreneurs. Founded by Denise Woodard, a Black Korean-American, Partake has not only achieved commercial success but also made a significant impact on the CPG industry, inspiring other black women entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams.

• Woodard's journey started with a personal need: her daughter's severe food allergies. This sparked an entrepreneurial drive to create tasty and safe snacks for those with dietary restrictions.
• Partake has since expanded its product line to include graham crackers, pancake and waffle mixes, and secured distribution in over 12,000 stores across the US.
• Woodard's determination and resilience are particularly inspiring, especially given the challenges she faced as a black woman entrepreneur seeking venture capital.

Overcoming Funding Challenges: A Testament to Black Women Entrepreneurs' Grit

Despite the significant growth of Partake Foods, Woodard faced numerous obstacles in securing funding. She encountered skepticism from investors who underestimated the potential of allergy-friendly snacks and overlooked the power of a mission-driven approach.

• Black women entrepreneurs like Woodard are often underrepresented in the venture capital landscape. They receive a disproportionately small percentage of funding compared to their white male counterparts.
• Woodard's story underscores the persistent systemic bias that black women entrepreneurs face. They are often required to prove their worth and overcome skepticism before securing funding.

Partake Foods' Success Proves the Need for Allergy-Friendly Snacks

The consumer packaged goods (CPG) market is vast and growing, offering significant opportunities for female founders, particularly black women entrepreneurs. Partake Foods' success demonstrates the enormous demand for allergy-friendly snacks.

• The CPG market is estimated to be worth over $2.1 trillion and is expected to grow to $2.4 trillion by 2028.
• Partake Foods has capitalized on this opportunity by providing delicious and safe snacks for those with food allergies.
• The company's growth and impact are a testament to the power of entrepreneurship and the potential of black women entrepreneurs to disrupt established industries.

Building a Team and Empowering Others: Partake's Commitment to Diversity

Partake Foods is more than just a successful snack company; it is a company committed to creating positive change. This commitment is reflected in its efforts to promote diversity and inclusion in the CPG industry.

• Woodard has created a diverse and inclusive team at Partake Foods, emphasizing communication and connection among her employees.
• The company launched a nonprofit, Black Futures Fellowship, to provide HBCU students with paid internships and job opportunities within the CPG industry.
• Partake Foods' commitment to diversity and inclusion goes beyond its own company, seeking to create a more equitable future for all.

A Minority-Owned Business Leading the Way: Partake's Impact on the CPG Landscape

Partake Foods' success is not only about delicious snacks; it's about challenging the status quo and empowering other black women entrepreneurs. The company's commitment to diversity and inclusion resonates within the CPG industry and beyond.

• As a certified minority-owned business, Partake Foods has increased access to government contracts and large corporations, providing greater visibility and exposure.
• Woodard's leadership and the company's success inspire other black women entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams and make a meaningful impact.

Tackling Food Insecurity: Partake Foods' Ongoing Mission

Partake Foods' commitment extends beyond providing delicious and safe snacks. It has also made significant efforts to address food insecurity, an important issue for marginalized communities.

• Partake Foods has partnered with organizations to provide food assistance to those in need.
• The company's focus on food insecurity is a testament to its mission to create a more just and equitable food system.

The Legacy of Black Women Entrepreneurs: Partake's Enduring Impact

Partake Foods' story is a testament to the power of black women entrepreneurs. Woodard's resilience, determination, and commitment to diversity and inclusion have made a significant impact on the CPG industry and inspired countless others.

• Partake Foods' success is a reminder that black women entrepreneurs can achieve great things and create positive change in the world.