For six years, Marharyta Martynova has made original sauces from natural berries and vegetables under her Mr. Caramba brand. Her family business, run with her parents and siblings, specializes in craft products made from locally cultivated berries and vegetables.

Marharyta started her business during her maternity leave by focusing on a love of cooking instilled by her parents. “They were always experimenting with ingredients, creating new sauces, obtaining interesting flavors. At the time, there were few alternatives in stores to ketchup, mayonnaise, or satsebeli [a tangy Georgian sauce], no berry or spicy sauces. I decided to fill this niche,” Marharyta recollects. 

Marharyta initially cooked in her parent’s kitchen and then rented a 120 square meter space with the growth of the business.

Collaborating with supermarket chains and specialty stores, participating in exhibitions, and growing production – Marharyta already understood how to grow her business and develop a loyal customer base. But she also knew that she could benefit by leaving her comfort zone and perhaps seeing her business from a different angle. That is why she did not hesitate to sign up for the five-day Business Camp for Women, led by USAID’s Competitive Economy Program (CEP).

“I came across the Business Camp for Women on Facebook, and completed the application without hesitation. I wanted so much to find myself in a businesswomen’s environment, hear their stories, and share mine,” recounts Marharyta. “I considered this program an opportunity for networking, and it was not a mistake. I am very satisfied with my decision.”

The Business Camp for Women provided Marharyta with a better understanding of business-related legal issues and insights into using social media to grow her business. Reflecting on the camp, Marharyta says, “I had five thrilling days communicating with successful businesswomen, professional trainers, and speakers. The camp helped me to understand what ‘bolts’ need to be tightened and what to completely remove. The Business Camp is a jolt of fresh air, a boost of energy for progressive solutions.”

After the camp, Marharyta began concentrating on internet sales, which provided an unexpected benefit with the government-ordered quarantine. Knowledge of the latest sales, marketing, and communications techniques gained during the camp helped Marharyta to not only maintain but increase sales. 

A local retailer recently asked Marharyta to develop a signature and original sauce for them, recognition that Mr. Caramba is moving in the right direction.