Charlotte Walter
Founder of Charlotte Truffles
Established: 2017
Website: charlottetruffles.com | Instagram: @chartruffles // Facebook: facebook.com/CharTruffles
“Charlotte Truffles celebrates the cultural diversity of our community through flavors. Each truffle is created with a different culture in mind, and it's why our chocolate selections are more unique and diverse. We want to create a space where everyone is welcome.”
Why did you decide to start Charlotte Truffles?
When I first moved to the United States, I had a friend who taught me to embrace my multi-cultural background—Chinese-Indonesian, born in Germany—and how being different is an asset. I've seen first hand the power of diversity and the impact to the individual and the community. I want to pass on this gift to others.
What has been your most impactful interaction with ICA, and why?
I am more of a tactical person. ICA has helped define my strategic growth and from there, break it down tactically. More importantly, ICA has taught me to believe more in myself. I've been able to dream bigger for my business and to develop strategies to achieve this goal.
And of course, ICA's investment will help support my business’ growth, but on a more personal level, their investment and commitment has affirmed for me that my dream is achievable.
How do you envision your business contributing to a more equitable small business ecosystem?
I'm looking to attract employees that will grow with my business. And because of that, I'm focused on creating an environment that can support the individual's growth. In addition, we are defining a benefit plan that we can support today, as well as what we will aim for in the future.
What’s your best piece of advice for an aspiring entrepreneur?
I've been referencing this quote: "If it doesn't challenge you, it doesn't change you." And for me, this has been a crucial reminder that this journey is not meant to be easy. I'm a risk-averse person and love to assess any new plan in 500 different ways. This last year allowed me to become more risk tolerant. And because of that, I've seen growth in my business.
I've surprised myself with how resilient I've become, and I’ve learned that I can't be my own stumbling block—I always need to dream bigger.
