HCEDC
Hudson County Economic Development Corporation
6 OPENING DOORS FOR
Cavany Foods
B
orn in Venezuela, Chef Alejandro Ferrer, owner
I think about what this has meant to me the word
of Cavany Foods in Jersey City is passionate
‘familia’ comes to mind. Being able to collaborate
about food, family and community. Housed in a
with the HCEDC team has inspired me to believe in
vibrant corner at 235 Grand Street, the light-filled
myself,” stated Alejandro.
space offers a new concept in organic prepared meal pick-up and delivery, meal plans and catering along with groceries. Since 2015, HCEDC has been the leading sponsor of the Hispanic Entrepreneur Training Program through the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey which provided Alejandro with access to valuable information, networking opportunities, new markets and capital. As a participant in this long-standing partnership, Alejandro was paired with a team of coaches to assist in a variety of ways. Head Coach, Reina Valenzuela, supported him with market research, commuter statistics and helped develop Cavany’s business plan. Accounting coach, Karem Ospino, assisted Alejandro with growth projections and developing financial reports in concert with program coach, Tatiana Orozco, who worked with Alejandro to build a comprehensive marketing plan. The Chairman of the Board, Luis de La Hoz, along with the HETP team, empowered him by providing access to capital. “As an immigrant, knowing that I had such an experienced and dedicated team working on my behalf has been an inspiring and extraordinary experience for myself and my business. It is one of the empowering aspects of being an entrepreneur in Hudson County. The
“Being able to collaborate with the HCEDC team has inspired me to believe in myself.” —CHEF ALEJANDRO FERRER
support I’ve received throughout the entire process was critical to make my idea a reality. When
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HCEDC : Annual Report 2021