ELK GROVE VILLAGE, IL, USA [March 7, 2019] – The mission statement for Edlong is Enrich the Lives of Those We Touch. This mission is reflected in the company’s products, partnerships, diversity and corporate social responsibility practices. It is also shown by CEO Laurette Rondenet’s involvement in social causes and organizations, including YEA! Chicago.
The Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) is a groundbreaking year-long program that transforms local middle and high school students (grades 6-12) into confident entrepreneurs. They conduct market research, write business plans, pitch to a panel of investors, and launch their very own companies. The Chicago chapter of YEA! hosts panels and discussions.
As a member of the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO), Laurette is very active in YEA!, and serves on the board of the Spirit Foundation for young women entrepreneurs. She recently appeared as part of the YEA! CEO Roundtable on February 26, held in the Merchandise Mart in Chicago. The event brought together female leaders for an informal discussion about their lives, professional experience, and what they loved most about their careers.
Laurette also participates in the organization’s YEA! Investor Panel. Their most recent event took place March 5. It included a Meet and Greet reception with the young entrepreneurs, followed by business pitches. The panel awarded $10,000 of seed money to support proposed new ventures.
“As a woman entrepreneur myself, I embrace the opportunity to help these girls,” says Laurette Rondenet. “They have so much passion and fortitude. Some just need a little assistance to see their wishes come true, like mine have. I know these girls will go far.”
About Edlong
Experience the science and art of authentic taste. Edlong has the broadest global portfolio of dairy flavors and is the only certified woman-owned flavor house in the food manufacturing industry (WBNEC). Founded in 1914, we are committed to world-class service in custom flavor development, applications and culinary support, regulatory compliance and supply chain performance. Our broad portfolio of dairy and dairy-free flavors improves classic taste profiles for Cheese, Butter, Sweet Dairy, Cream and Milk. We also deliver unique functional value in the flavor and mouthfeel of sugar-reduced products, and mask nutritional ingredients in foods and beverages. edlong.com