ABOUT THE FUND
The Main Street Entrepreneurs Seed Fund supports Georgia State student entrepreneurs, recent alumni and Georgia State community entrepreneurs with seed funding and mentorship to start and grow new ventures.
THE CHEESECAKE SPECIALIST
Victoria Blount, Founder & CEO
Undergraduate Student, B.B.A. Finance
[email protected]
Launched March 2018
PROBLEM
Lack of variety in cheesecake flavors
SOLUTION
Offer unique cheesecake flavors such
as Honey Lavender, Pumpkin Spice,
and Banana Pudding in 10-inch and mini sizes
BUSINESS MODEL
Direct and e-commerce product sales
TARGET MARKET
Individuals and Businesses
KEY COMPETITORS
Sammy Cheezecake and
Say Cheese Gourmet Cheesecakes
USE OF FUNDS
70% Operations, 20% Startup Costs and 10% Equipment
How has your company pivoted from its initial launch?
When I initially launched, I was making 10-inch cheesecakes exclusively. This size is good for a family or a small gathering but not for an individual. One way I pivoted is by offering mini cheesecakes. They are similar in size to standard cupcakes and very visually appealing. My assorted minis have since become my most popular offering.
How has your experiences at Georgia State played a role in your becoming an entrepreneur?
Georgia State University has greatly supported me as an entrepreneur in a variety of ways. A major reason I decided to attend GSU is because I wanted to continue growing my business The Cheesecake Specialist in the metro Atlanta area while going to school. Opportunities and resources like Main Street and LaunchGSU confirm I made the right choice. LaunchGSU has connected me with other student entrepreneurs who have given me great ideas and feedback on my business. From an academic standpoint, my accounting and finance courses have taught me the importance of keeping good financial records. I have also had the opportunity to practice pitching through the College Entrepreneurs’ Organization (CEO) and a start-up simulator competition through the Joiner Achievement Academy (JAA).
What is your long-term goal(s)? For you? For the company?
My long-term goal is to start and exit multiple ventures in my lifetime. When I get older and look back on my life, I want to know that I added value to the world. Through my companies, I want to create jobs and be the kind of leader that supports my team in accomplishing their goals. My long-term goal for The Cheesecake Specialist is to ship my cheesecakes nationwide.
What role has Atlanta played in your entrepreneurial journey?
I believe that representation matters. Atlanta has played a huge role in my entrepreneurial journey by exposing me to numerous Black women building and running successful businesses.
What advice can you offer to entrepreneurs?
Commit to the journey of entrepreneurship. Make the decision before you start a business that you are in this for the long haul. Some would say that entrepreneurship is a marathon, not a sprint.
FOUNDER INTERVIEW
ABOUT THE FUND
The Marcus Foundation supports Georgia State student entrepreneurs, recent alumni and Georgia State community entrepreneurs with seed funding and mentorship to start and grow new ventures.