Today we’d like to introduce you to Drew Davis.
Hi Drew, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My name is Drew, and I’m a 17-year-old entrepreneur born with cerebral palsy. I weighed 250 pounds a few years ago, but through hard work and dedication, I lost over 100 pounds. This experience made me realize I can achieve anything if I put my mind to it. During my school business project, I presented my idea for a hot sauce business called Crippling Hot Sauce. I received an 82 on my project, but my teacher said it was cool but unrealistic. Instead of getting mad, I decided to research and prove everyone wrong. I started Crippling Hot Sauce to show people that no matter your circumstance, you can turn any dream into a reality while giving back to a good cause. Fast forward to today, and we have sold over 20,000 bottles of hot sauce in more than 100 retail locations. Not only do we offer a delicious condiment, but we also donate 5% of our profits to cerebral palsy research. On top of that, most recently, I went to Washington DC to speak to the house small business committee about my success, story, and how Congress could help more disabled individuals start a business.
Would it have been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
You must be at least 18 to sign or open certain accounts. Since I am only 17 years old, that is my biggest challenge: many accounts and legal documents. I have been lucky through this journey to meet and have many mentors and partners to help me with this obstacle.
We’ve been impressed with The Crippling Company, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share about what you do and what sets you apart?
We offer three unique flavors with different flavor profiles. Our most unique flavor has the main ingredient of carrots. Not only is that unique, but it also helps provide a nice sweet flavor to pair with the spiciness you will get from the sauce. We donate 5% to cerebral palsy research. Another cool thing is because of my customer’s support. I am one of the youngest in the US to run a food-related business at this scale.
What matters most to you? Why?
It is essential to me to provide a good quality product and give back. While showing that no matter your situation, you can turn any dream into a reality
Contact Info:
- Website: thecripplingcompany.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/crippling_hot_sauce_?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Cripplingcompany?mibextid=LQQJ4d
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/cripplingco?s=21&t=Gtbbun15-vVIhuMr4DpIxQ
