Stacy’s Snacks has created the Stacy’s Rise Project to advance women in the culinary industry and has announced the first class of scholarship winners.

Stacy’s is one of the brands under the Plano-based Frito-Lay North America umbrella. The Stacy’s Rise Project was created in the spirit of female entrepreneurship, the same spirit that gave birth to the Stacy’s Snacks company most famously known for its baked pita chips. 

“Stacy’s is committed to empowering the next generation of female culinary leaders to pursue their dreams …” 

Stuart Beck

“Stacy’s is committed to empowering the next generation of female culinary leaders to pursue their dreams, and is thrilled to celebrate the first class of Stacy’s Scholarship for Female Culinary Leaders recipients,” said Stuart Beck, senior director of marketing for Stacy’s Snacks, in a release. 

Four women were chosen as the recipients of a $10,000 scholarship in order to help them attend the International Culinary Center’s Culinary Entrepreneurship program in New York City. The women developed business plans and sent in a video or essay explaining their career goals. 

“Each of these women has developed impressive business plans that we are proud to be able to support — and ultimately be a part of advancing the number of women entrepreneurs in the U.S.,”  Beck said.

Here’s a look at the inaugural recipients, according to Stacy’s Snacks: 

Kiki Canuto is a trilingual world traveler from Massachusetts and owner of The Getaway Plate, which provides families with in-home meal prep in the Greater Boston area. She’s planning to expand her services to Southern California.

Eunice Giarta previously worked in software, but found her passion in the kitchen. She’s planning to launch a dessert bar in Chicago where she will intertwine Asian-inspired flavors and French-pastry techniques.

Jane Deegan is a New Yorker who has struggled with homelessness and addiction in the past. She currently operates an ecommerce business, Janie Bakes, but she’s hoping to one day open a brick-and-mortar bakery and café offering a modern twist on American classics.

Raven Rivera was born and raised on Long Island in Bay Shore, New York. She studied television in school, but is currently operating a Puerto Rican restaurant.

Stacy’s plans to award $60,000 in scholarships and stipends next year through the program. Visit the Stacy’s Rise Project webpage to learn more about the program and how to apply.

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