Collette Divitto makes amazing cookies with a mission

In honor of Disability Employment Awareness Month, QuickBooks is spotlighting entrepreneurs who play a vital role in creating inclusive and meaningful work for all.

Name: Collette Divitto  

Location: Boston, MA

Business: Collettey’s Cookies

Why did you decide to start your own business? Where did the idea come from and how did you put it into action?

I started my company in 2016 after years of rejection from many interviews. It was obvious to me that people just saw me as disabled rather than giving me a chance. I really wanted to be independent and on my own, so I needed to find a way to make money. 

Since I always loved baking and was known as the “amazing cookie girl,” I decided to make some samples and bring them to a local market to see if the owner would want to sell them. And he did! Within one week, and with my mom-entrepreneur’s help, I started a company and built a website. My sister, Blake, helped set me up on all social media.

What makes your business unique in its field? 

Well, first, people tell me my cookies are so good and one of the best on the market today. Second, my company is all about a mission, which is employment for people with ”challenges.” I really do not like saying disabilities. I feel like everyone in the world has strengths and weaknesses.

How does your business support people with challenges? 

The cookie company does this in two ways: One is by creating jobs for people, and the other is by donating to the 501(c)(3) charity I started called Collettey’s Leadership Programs. My nonprofit is all about education and empowerment workshops and classes to help people with challenges create a more fulfilled life of employment and independence.

What has been most rewarding about starting your business? 

Seeing how I can help and empower others in their lives… and being the BOSS!

What was the most surprising thing about becoming a business owner? 

It is a lot of work, and you have to love what you do because it runs your life.

How does running your own business make you feel? 

It makes me feel confident and empowered! (Tired sometimes, too.) You have to find ways to turn off your mind from work.

What are your proudest moments? 

Speaking in front of thousands of people and them all listening to me and being proud of me.

What are the next big plans you have for your business? 

I am launching new types of cookies in markets across the U.S., AND I am building more classes and workshops for my nonprofit!

What are some things you feel have contributed to your success as a business owner?

My mom and my sister. They always had confidence in me and taught me to be strong and not give up. Plus they are very independent and “bosses” too!

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone starting their own business?

You have to love what you do and have people that want to help you — because it can be a lot of work to get started and keep sales coming in. I get to focus on cookies, recipes, and workshops while my mom works full time for me on business and marketing. I could never do both. And she is a terrible baker.

When you’re having a tough day, who or what inspires you to keep going?

Music, the gym, having plans to go to concerts, dinner with friends, and sports games. I also love to take long walks with my best music on.

What’s your “power song” and why?

“Girl on Fire” by Alicia Keys. Because I feel like after everything and all the doubt people had in me, I never gave up, and I am just getting started!

Get your cookies from colletteys.com or follow Collette on Instagram @colletteyscookies.