Melissa McDaniel - Inspiring Empathy, LLC
The program helped with the anxieties of finding startup capital and knowing there is help for entrepreneurs, especially for women-owned businesses.
- Mellisa McDaniel
Melissa McDaniel, the passionate owner of Inspiring Empathy, LLC, has always loved cooking and baking. Since childhood, Melissa found cooking fascinating, and she saw it as a form of art, a way to show her love and appreciation towards others. She would spend hours in the kitchen experimenting with new recipes and techniques, much to the delight of her family and friends.
After completing her high school education, Melissa decided to pursue her love for cooking, graduating with a Culinary Arts degree. Her skills and passion for cooking saw her working in various restaurants across the CSRA. Throughout her career, Melissa was always fascinated by making pastries and sweets, and she dreamed of owning her own bakery and catering company.
Even as she pursued her passion for cooking, Melissa didn't stop her pursuit of knowledge. She returned to school and graduated with a double major in Medical Office and Medical Billing specialist. Working in emergency medical services on the administrative side for several years, Melissa always remembered her love for cooking and continued sharing it with everyone she worked with. Working alongside Dr. Dunagan, the CSRA's best Allergy and Immunology Specialist, Mellisa often treated the staff to her delicious pastries and sweets.
Melissa knew that starting a business was challenging; however, she was determined to make her dream come true. At this point, Melissa stumbled upon the Make Startups program, which taught the business and political aspects of starting a business. The program proved beneficial, as it equipped Melissa with resources to gain startup capital, which most people do not realize exists.
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Make it work
Unfortunately, with the onset of the pandemic, business owners across the world began to struggle. It was a tough time, especially for the food and beverage industry, and Melissa was no exception. Despite the challenges, Melissa refused to give up on her dream. She continued working in the medical sector and even obtained her certification as a Medication Technician, making the most of her time outside of catering.
The Make Startups program provided Melissa with support and resources, giving her newfound confidence that her business was possible. Networking and connecting with people in the same industry helped Melissa realize that focusing on her passion for cooking and empathy was the right choice.
Today, Melissa's Inspring Empathy, LLC business is a testament to her persistence and love for cooking. Melissa's food is delicious and ensures it is provided to people who need it most, especially those experiencing hard times. Melissa has created a community dedicated to empathy, inclusion, and a love for food through her business.
In conclusion, Melissa's journey of creating her business is inspiring. Her story reminds us that pursuing our passion takes courage, commitment, and an unwavering spirit. Through adversity, Melissa refused to let go of her dream. The Make Startups program helped Melissa achieve her ultimate goal and provided her with the resources necessary to start her business. Today, Melissa proves that perseverance, determination, and hard work pay off in the end.
“The program helped with the anxieties of finding startup capital and knowing there is help for entrepreneurs, especially for women-owned businesses.”
