As a business owner and the CEO of Collettey’s Cookies, Collette Divitto relishes her responsibility to make decisions and steer her company. There was a time, however, Collette told SFA, when having a job at all seemed out of reach. She was applying for job after job, but kept hearing that she wasn’t “the right fit.” So Collette decided to start her own business instead, inspired by her ability to make cookies that her friends and family couldn’t get enough of.
Today, Collettey has sold more than 400,000 cookies and employes 15 people, including several with disabilities. Born with Down syndrome, Collette has imbued her business with an ambitious purpose: to help create jobs for “people with disabilities and challenges,” she said.
SFA recently spoke with Collette about her cookies, business journey, Fancy Food Show experience, and a new award-winning short film about her life and work.
Tell us about your cookies: is there a “secret ingredient” that makes them especially delicious?
The secret ingredient is determination, love, and maybe a bit of cinnamon.
Did you start your business with one type of cookie and expand? When did you introduce the gluten free and vegan options?
I started with my #1 cookie, Chocolate Chip Cinnamon, in 2016 because people who tried it always said it’s amazing. I made the gluten free after, and last month I introduced the Vegan Shortbread.
Are there new cookie recipes in the works that we can look forward to?
My brand new one is selling out constantly. It is a Dark Chocolate Espresso cookie.
What is the best part about being a business owner and CEO? What is the hardest part?
I get to create jobs for people with disabilities and challenges. But also I am the boss which I love. I get to make all the decisions.
We love Collettey’s Cookies’ mission of creating job opportunities for people with disabilities. How has the mindset of focusing on your abilities, rather than what you can’t do, helped you in your business journey?
I started my business when no one would hire me. I would not let rejection affect how I felt about myself.
You’ve exhibited at the Fancy Food Show in the past. What was that experience like? Did it help grow your business?
It was amazing. I got to meet a lot of people and share my story. Honestly, my mom has a lot to do with my growth. She is an amazing marketing person.
A short film about you and your business just won an Academy Award – congratulations! What message are you hoping people get from watching the film?
The short film is called 17 Percent. It is about my life and running my business and focuses on why only 17% of people with disabilities have jobs.
What advice or recommendations do you have for food and beverage entrepreneurs who are just starting out?
Love what you do. Believe in yourself. Do a lot of research about your product and other products like it already on the market. Find a way to market your product differently.
Learn more about Collette, her products, and her mission on the Collettey's Cookies website.
Founder Collette Divitto’s Cookie Company Is Her Vehicle for Creating Jobs for Other People with Disabilities
