This story is part of a series spotlighting the contributions of Black Portlanders to the regional economy. The Business Journal is profiling one Black-owned business a day through February. You can read the coverage here. We'll be updating the page as we publish profiles, so check back often.
Company name: Plant Bomb Inc.
Founded: 2021
What it does: "Chef-inspired and thoughtfully crafted, flavor-packed, nutritious, and versatile selection of savory sauces that make your food literally explode with flavor." — Founder Rajiv Harry
Web: www.plantbomb.com/
Rajiv Harry, aka Mr. Saucery, was inspired to create the Plant Bomb line of sauces by his belief, laid out on the company website, that "health, wellness, and nutritional goodness are all explosive parts of living a wholesome lifestyle." No surprise, given that Harry is a fitness/health and wellness coach and a professional chef. Plant Bomb's Caribbean Peppa, Garlic Tahini and Thai Almond sauces are non-GMO, gluten and dairy-free and almost fully organic.
What's the biggest challenge your business faced 2022 and how did you address it? Trying to do everything that all young businesses need to do
What was your biggest success of 2022? Acquiring a talented team of individuals in critical sectors that are highly invested in the success of Plant Bomb
What's the outlook for your business in 2023? Our primary focus is to drive sales on D2C and e-commerce platforms while creating a deeper connection with our consumer base. Also, participating in the abundant NW makers scene and building brand awareness locally.
What has you most worried? Having enough working capital to execute our strategies and grow top-line revenue.
What are you most excited about? Expanding the number of sauces we offer and sharing the excitement that our current customers feel with new customers all over the country.
What's the best thing the city of Portland and/or state of Oregon could do to support your business? Continue to generate funding to support small and minority-owned businesses' growth. And make it more accessible.
