Grow America: Compete for Cash

Executive DirectorBusiness & FinanceLeave a Comment

If you’re a US-based maker over the age of 18 (sorry to our international and teen members!) with a fantastic idea, check out Grow America’s latest competition, which opened this week.  With a few simple clicks, you could be in the running for their top prize of $20,000, to be awarded by the end of February. Grow America is a … Read More

Soaping Superstars: Beauty in Haiti

Executive DirectorMembership & Benefits3 Comments

It all started with Google.  No, really. Marla Bosworth, CEO and Founder of Back Porch Soap Company, and Amanda Griffin, the brains behind Lovin’ Soap, both HSMG members and speakers at our 2013 conference, recently returned from a whirlwind trip to Haiti. There, they taught two dozen women from OFEDA (Organisation des Femmes Devouees en Action), a group formed after … Read More

Vendor Spotlight: The Lebermuth Company

Executive DirectorMember SpotlightsLeave a Comment

The Lebermuth Company has been part of the HSMG for over a decade and in business for over ten decades.  Lebermuth, which stocks a wide array of both fragrant and essential oils, is based in Mishawaka, Indiana, an area in the midwestern US commonly referred to as Michiana.  Current President Rob Brown’s great grandfather started the company while trading produce … Read More

Business Planning in the New Year

Executive DirectorBusiness & Finance1 Comment

Whether it’s bright and balmy or blisteringly brisk, January is a great time to plan for the year.  A mad rush of holidays has ended, affording small business owners a chance to stop, catch their breath, and reset for the coming year. Photo by Flickr member Sally Mahoney. Used under a Creative Commons License. How was your 2012?  What product … Read More

Share Your Voice: US Labeling

Executive DirectorIndustry Advocacy & News7 Comments

The HSMG has submitted a petition that needs your voice. In mid-2012, the HSMG submitted a citizen’s petition to the US FDA requesting a change in the law to make a PO box acceptable on cosmetic product labels in lieu of a street address.  The FDA confirmed receipt in August and has been collecting public comments on the petition prior … Read More