Founder Spotlight: Renee Dunn (Amazi Foods)

Renee Dunn 

Startup:
Amazi Foods

Business Description:

Amazi Foods sells healthy, made-in-Uganda snacks. Our Jackfruit Chews and Plantain Chips not only offer a bold tropical twist on your typical dried fruit, they're also made in partnership with small businesses in Uganda.

Startup Stage:
Bootstrapped (friends and family funded); about to raise a CN

Location:
Washington, DC, USA

What led you to where you are today?

I started Amazi in late 2016 after studying abroad and doing research in Uganda. I was struck by the high unemployment and untapped agriculture in Uganda, and wanted to solve for the disconnects that existed in our supply chains. I quit my job, hopped on a plane with no idea what I was doing, and slowly started building out products, supplier relations, and eventually, got the Amazi brand to where it is today!

What do you wish you knew before embarking on your entrepreneurial journey?

That while seeking advice is helpful, only I can make the decisions and know what's right for my brand. It's easy as a first time entrepreneur to have doubts, to not know what steps to take, and while it's important to build a network of mentors, it's also important not to ask around too much. There is so much out there and no one right way to do things, so it's important to also feel things out for yourself.

What can you help the VEGPRENEUR community with

Discussions on ethical and sustainable supply chains, import/export, international relationships, wellness/self-awareness related topics (journaling practices, yoga, etc.)

How can the VEGPRENEUR community help you?

Engage with us, collaborate with us, and help us build community online and beyond!

Fun fact about you:

I'm also a yoga teacher and Strength Coach/Trainer at MADabolic Inc.!