Carol Humphreys (left), director of the Incubator, presents a check to Mary Ann Murphy of Cookies From Emily for winning the non-technology division of the competition, as Emily watches.
Mary Ann Murphy, Owner, writes the following:
"As a grandmother of a child with food allergies, I discovered a huge need for prepared foods, especially snacks, for this group of people. With estimates of 11 million people in the United States who suffer from food allergies, there is a vast market starving for great-tasting foods. The FDA recognizes 8 major allergens: milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, seafood, soy, and shellfish.
"I realized my first dream when I was able to develop recipes for cookies that my grandchildren could eat. The second dream has become a reality thanks to the support, information and direction I received when I contacted the Business Incubator about my idea. Carol, Cindy, and Andrea literally held my hand and guided me through the process of taking a dream and creating a world for it to survive in. Their help made it possible for me to start Cookies From Emily.
"Cookies From Emily is a grandma-driven bakery that provides great-tasting, home-baked cookies to people with food allergies. We aspire to being recognized in the marketplace and the community as a reputable, responsible, caring company providing quality products, in a timely fashion, at a reasonable cost. I have an extensive background in food production and distribution. I’m also a highly qualified grandmother! My love of my grandchildren is what has prompted me to develop recipes that they will love."
In addition to creating her business with help from the Incubator, Mary Ann Murphy also won the non-technology division of the 2008 Business Plan Competition for the Cookies From Emily plan. She won $3,000 to help develop her business.