How a Black woman entrepreneur made Harlem Chocolate Factory stand out

Jessica Spaulding, the founder of Harlem Chocolate Factory, had always wanted to be a chocolatier but never pursued it because she needed startup capital. However, after losing her job and seeing notices for the New York StartUP! Business Plan Competition, she seized the opportunity. Sponsored by the New York Public Library, entrants can win US$15,000 to start their business and gain practical insights about starting and growing a business.

In 2015, Spaulding launched her business, but she didn’t do it without hard work and the help of others. She:

• Received a US$3,000 loan from Accion Opportunity Fund, a Community Development Financial Institute (CDFI).
• Won a US$15,000 grant from the NYC public library.
• Received free legal and accounting services from Start Small Think Big.

“The store was a game changer,” said Spaulding, but it wasn’t without its challenges. “Opening the store gave us a chance to create an experiential brand,” she said.

Harlem Chocolate Factory is an artisan brand that conveys the culture of Harlem through its recipes and packaging.