Liz Lovely, Inc. develops, manufactures, and distributes gluten-free and vegan cookies that can now be found at approximately 2,000 grocery retailers throughout the country. Liz Lovely makes only 100% all natural, non-GMO products that are allergen friendly and a safe alternative to mainstream, commercially produced cookies. In this way they contribute to a healthier lifestyle both in Vermont and around the US.

In 2013, Liz Lovely was experiencing considerable growth in revenue due to the popularity of the gluten-free foods market. They needed flexible financing to accelerate their sales velocity, and increase production in their existing space at the Mad River Food Hub in Waitsfield, Vermont. They approached equity investors with an offering, but were unable to align with prospective investors on valuation or company mission.

As a company whose mission is “real food, good jobs and environmentally sustainable business practices,” they liked the idea of working with the Flex Fund and our royalty financing program – as it preserves their equity and decision making abilities. The Flex Fund, in turn, saw great market opportunity, a strong management team, with good advisory capacity and fit with our mission. The company has a strong consumer following with a recognized brand nationally, a passionate entrepreneur owner, and a track record in growing good paying jobs. Since our original investment, the Flex Fund has made two additional loans to Liz Lovely and brought CEO advisory services to the company.

Read more in the Vermont Farm to Plate financing case study.