From Garden Bounty to Market Shelves: How C’mon Betty Grew with Small Business Support
When Caitlin Burr found herself with a garden overflowing during the COVID lockdown, she didn’t just preserve vegetables—she preserved possibility. What began as a homegrown canning project in her kitchen quickly evolved into the seed of a business idea. With a passion for reducing food waste and crafting flavorful, small-batch condiments, Caitlin launched C’mon Betty, an artisanal brand dedicated to transforming “rescued” produce into something worth savoring.
But passion alone doesn’t make a business thrive. Caitlin needed guidance, structure, and industry insight to turn her culinary side project into a sustainable venture.
Where Passion Meets Preparation
The turning point came when Caitlin was connected by Small Business Support from Ann Arbor SPARK to the Entrepreneurship Center at Washtenaw Community College, enrolling in their intensive 18-month incubator program. There, she gained not just business training but a launchpad—receiving mentorship, hands-on workshops, and tailored support that helped her shape her idea into a brand with purpose.
“The resources and networks that exist in Ann Arbor have been absolutely invaluable,” Caitlin shares. “I wouldn’t have probably started this business anywhere else.”
This program provided Caitlin with the foundation she needed in communications, marketing, and essential planning, equipping her to transition from stocking jars in the pantry to selling products on the shelf.
Navigating the Complexity of Food Entrepreneurship
Food entrepreneurship is full of red tape—from FDA compliance to pricing logistics—and Caitlin soon faced the challenging regulatory landscape of launching a food product. That’s when Caitlin was connected through Small Business Support to the Michigan Small Business Development Center (SBDC). Through this network, Caitlin connected with seasoned business expert Mary Dembro, who provided candid and strategic financial insights that helped refine her pricing and production model.
Simultaneously, support from the MSU Product Center guided her through FDA certification requirements, helping her map out every step from product formulation to legal labeling. And when commercial kitchen access became a challenge, the Entrepreneurship Center stepped in again, connecting her with Growing Hope’s facility so production didn’t skip a beat.
Turning a Network into a Lifeline
The ecosystem surrounding Caitlin became her greatest advantage. NextCycle Michigan and Fresh Coast Climate Solutions stepped in to help align her business with sustainable practices, offering tools like business model templates, environmental strategy coaching, and product costing guidance.
And thanks to a WCC-arranged mentor, Caitlin mastered the art of pitch writing—gaining clarity and confidence for grant applications and business competitions alike.
“I wouldn’t have even known about these resources without these programs,” Caitlin says. “They just keep expanding your network. Every connection leads to another opportunity.”
Launching a Brand Rooted in Purpose
Today, C’mon Betty is ready to make its market debut with two standout products: zucchini relish and watermelon rind relish, both crafted from locally rescued produce that might have otherwise gone to waste.
With FDA certification nearly complete and launch preparations underway, Caitlin is demonstrating that sustainability and small business can grow in tandem. What started as a garden surplus has now become a mission-driven brand on a path to preserve more than just food—it’s preserving environmental impact, economic empowerment, and Michigan’s rich culture of local entrepreneurship.
About Small Business Support
Small Business Support from Ann Arbor SPARK provides no-cost coaching, mentorship, workshops, and resources to help entrepreneurs in Livingston, Monroe, and Washtenaw Counties start and grow their businesses. Through a collaborative network of Business Support Partners, we offer expert guidance, technical assistance, and tools designed to strengthen local entrepreneurship, fuel innovation, and build long-term business success. Meet our partners and explore the organizations working together to make this possible here.