From queens to cocoa: dominican sisters forge a chocolate revolution
Janett and Erika Liriano, daughters of Dominican immigrants, traded the polished world of Forbes 30 Under 30 and venture capital for a chance to redefine their family’s legacy – and the future of their homeland’s cocoa industry.
A seed of rebellion
Born in Queens, these sisters initially chased high-powered careers, but a simple cacao drink sparked a radical idea: to break the cycle of exploitation that’s plagued Dominican cocoa farmers for decades. They weren’t seeking accolades; they were driven by a deep-seated desire to create real value, a mission fueled by their parents’ stories of hardship and resilience.
The family call to action
Their parents, recalling their own struggles in the US, urged them to channel their ambition into something tangible, something that could truly transform the Dominican Republic. “With how hard you both work for others, you could change the country if you just chose to focus on doing what you really believe in,” Janett recalled. This wasn’t just a side hustle; it was a calling.
A pandemic pivot
In 2020, leaving lucrative positions behind, the family embarked on an audacious journey to the Dominican Republic, immersing themselves in the complex realities of the cocoa supply chain. Months were spent travelling the countryside in pickup trucks, witnessing firsthand the systemic issues that kept farmers trapped in a cycle of poverty. They discovered that most beans were sold to the first truck that appeared, often resulting in drastically undervalued payments.
Rebuilding the supply chain
Determined to disrupt the status quo, Inaru Chocolate was born. The company contracts directly with farmers, guaranteeing a fixed price and eliminating exploitative practices. Paying farmers 3% of each sale – significantly more than what most buyers offer – allows them to invest in their farms and, crucially, taste the fruits of their labor. This vertical integration, coupled with a commitment to high-quality cacao, is driving profits and empowering the community.
Beyond the bean
“Rather than treating farmers as distant suppliers, Inaru views them as genuine partners in the brand’s success,” said Jennifer Gomez, chief marketing officer of the Founder’s Pool. “They’ve replaced a fragmented supply chain with a transparent, family-rooted model.”
Facing the hurdles
The journey hasn't been easy. Navigating bureaucratic red tape, securing funding as women of color founders—who receive a minuscule fraction of venture capital—and overcoming language barriers presented formidable obstacles. But with the support of an angel investor and their parents’ unwavering belief, Inaru persevered.
A taste of success
Today, Inaru Chocolate employs 35 people and is gaining traction with discerning brands like W Hotels and Zingerman’s. Its distinctive flavors, crafted with locally sourced cacao, are available in boutiques and online, offering a premium chocolate experience unlike anything else in the market. The company’s success is a testament to the Liriano sisters’ vision and a powerful example of how Business can be a force for good.
The reward
“Being able to really see the impact and connection between the land, the people, the food and the politics on a very real, day-to-day level has been so reaffirming,” said Erika. “Honestly, it feels really natural to be here.”