Veteran-Owned Business Spotlight: Sticky Spoons Jam, LLC

This Veteran’s Day, we’re excited to spotlight Sticky Spoons Jam, LLC, a Black woman veteran-owned business that is sweetening the lives of Michigan residents and beyond with its delicious jams and preserves. 

Founded by Aiyenede Akhigbe (Aiye), a driven entrepreneur and former service member, Sticky Spoons Jam, LLC was born out of a personal desire to create healthier, all-natural jam options that wouldn’t compromise on taste. Today, it’s a thriving business that serves up some of the most unique and flavorful jams and preserves made from locally sourced Michigan farm produce.

We caught up with Aiye to hear about her entrepreneurial journey, how her background shapes her work, and how the support of a Women’s Business Center has helped elevate her business.

What is Sticky Spoons Jam, LLC?

Sticky Spoons Jam, LLC is a black woman veteran-owned small batch jam and preserve company based in Niles, Michigan. The jams are not only great for making sandwiches, but also perfect for cooking, baking, grilling, crafting bespoke cocktails, or even eating straight out of the jar (and customers do, with great enthusiasm!).

“People have sung, danced, and used some colorful language that we can’t repeat to describe how much they love our jams!” Aiye shares with a laugh. Sticky Spoons Jam, LLC offers a wide variety of unique flavors, each carefully crafted with no artificial flavors, preservatives, or high fructose corn syrup.

What Inspired You to Start Your Own Business and How Does Being a Veteran Influence You?

“Sticky Spoons was born out of necessity to feed my son foods free of artificial flavors, preservatives and high fructose corn syrup. In trying to make him a classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich, I was unable to find jams that met my healthy eating standards. As a result, I became frustrated and decided to make my own products” she explains.

After numerous failed attempts, her persistence paid off, and she finally created a batch of jam that met her high standards.

Aiye’s military background played a critical role in this journey. She shares: “My military background instilled in me a strong sense of discipline, resilience, and strategic thinking. The experience taught me to lead with confidence, adapt to challenging situations, and maintain a steady focus on my goals. These skills have been invaluable in my entrepreneurial journey, helping me navigate the complexities of running a business, make decisive moves, and inspire my team.”

Why Did You Reach Out to the Women’s Business Center?

In 2020, as the business began to grow, Aiye decided to scale and look for resources that could provide guidance and support. Her decision to reach out to the Cornerstone Alliance Women’s Business Center proved to be a turning point. 

“While I had the passion and determination to grow my business, I needed expert advice and support to navigate some of the more complex aspects of entrepreneurship. The center’s reputation for empowering women and providing tailored resources made it the perfect place for me to seek help.”

How Has the Women’s Business Center Helped Your Veteran-Owned Business?

Aiye highlights the mentorship program at the Women’s Business Center as one of its most impactful services.

“The WBC’s mentorship has been transformative,” she shares. “My mentor has guided me through strategic decisions, marketing, and financial planning. I also apply for grants and pitch competitions, with the WBC providing leads and reviewing my applications. Their support has been key to my business’s growth.”

Reflecting further, she adds, “The Women’s Business Center has been crucial in helping me navigate the entrepreneurial landscape. Their continued mentorship has given me the tools to grow my business in ways I never imagined.”

Beyond practical advice, Aiye credits the WBC for boosting her confidence and helping her make informed decisions. “If not for the Women’s Business Center, my entrepreneurial journey would have been far more challenging,” she adds.

Where Can Readers Find Your Products?

You can find Sticky Spoons Jam, LLC’s jams and preserves online at StickySpoonsJam.com. If you’re in Michigan, visit their store in Niles, MI at 11801 Pucker St, Niles, MI 49120. Be sure to check out some of their bestsellers:

• Apple Pie Jam
• Blueberry Lavender Preserve
• Strawberry Jalapeno Jam
• Peach Mango Jam

And for the latest updates and mouthwatering photos, follow Sticky Spoons Jam, LLC on social media (Facebook) (Instagram).

The story of Sticky Spoons Jam, LLC is a testament to the resilience, creativity, and strength of a Black woman veteran entrepreneur. From creating healthy jams to building a thriving business, Aiye’s journey reflects perseverance and growth.

With the support of the Women’s Business Center, Sticky Spoons Jam, LLC has flourished into a beloved, veteran-owned business with a loyal customer base and ambitious plans for the future.

For women entrepreneurs or veterans considering starting their own business, the support, resources, and guidance available through a Women’s Business Center (WBC) can help turn dreams into reality and provide the mentorship you need to succeed. To learn more or find a WBC near you, click here.