In the Minneapolis-St. Paul area, Nosh and Gather stands out as a culinary venture that brings people together over delicious food. Meet Liza Atkinson, the passionate entrepreneur behind this thriving business.
“I am Liza Atkinson, owner and creator of Nosh and Gather,” she introduces herself with a smile. “Food is my love language, and I come from a long line of foodies. Entertaining is in my blood. Nothing makes my heart sing like a bustling kitchen, creating good food, and bringing people together over a shared table.”
Liza’s journey into the food industry wasn’t just a career choice—it was a calling. “Nosh and Gather was born out of my love for being a foodie and bringing people together,” she explains with a smile. “It all started when friends and neighbors began asking if I could prepare pre-made meals for them each week. That’s when I realized there was a demand for what I could offer.”
When it came to navigating the intricacies of entrepreneurship, Liza turned to trusted peers for advice and guidance. “I first heard about WomenVenture’s Accelerating Success course through The BWC, a group of peers whom I deeply trust,” she recalls. “Their recommendation prompted me to enroll, knowing that I would not only gain valuable insights but also be surrounded by a supportive community of like-minded individuals.”
Reflecting on her experience in the Accelerating Success course, Liza emphasizes the pivotal role of financial literacy in business growth. “One of the key takeaways from the course was the importance of using financial information to make informed decisions,” she shares.
“Understanding the numbers behind my business has been instrumental in making strategic choices that drive growth and sustainability.” – Liza Atkinson
Launching a business amidst a global pandemic was not without its challenges. Yet, with resilience and creativity, Liza navigated the turbulent waters, adapting her business model to meet the evolving needs of her community. “In times of uncertainty, flexibility is key,” she reflects. “And with the support of WomenVenture, the BWC community, and the unwavering support of my customers, I was able to weather the storm and emerge stronger on the other side.”
For women who aspire to pursue their passions in the food and agriculture industry, Liza has a simple yet powerful message: “Do it scared, do it hard, just do it,” she urges. “The time will never be perfect, so don’t wait for the stars to align. Start now, and trust that with perseverance and dedication, you’ll carve out your own path to success.”
Today, Nosh and Gather is thriving, with Liza’s business booming and her success serving as an inspiration to many. This is a reminder that with vision, hard work, and support, dreams can become reality. If you’re inspired by her journey and ready to embark on your own entrepreneurial path, explore the wealth of resources and support services WomenVenture offers. From business training courses to funding and business consulting, we are here to help you turn aspirations into achievements.
Author: Kiara Hollie-Sessions, WomenVenture Marketing Specialist
