Habitat for Neighborhood Business Entrepreneur Launches in Fresh Thyme

Ismael Wayne started Puddin Puddin as a local dessert business. Now, with the help of Habitat for Neighborhood Business and Saint Louis University MBA students, his products can be found on the shelves of Fresh Thyme in the City Foundry STL. 

As a part of the MBA capstone project, students from SLU's Chaifetz School of Business analyzed Puddin Puddin’s financials, reviewed operations, and researched how to bring products to market. They uncovered the need for bar codes, which Ismael was able to purchase thanks to a Habitat for Neighborhood Business grant. Just six months later, he’s positioned for significant growth.

Known for its rich, handcrafted cheesecakes and signature banana pudding, Puddin Puddin has quickly earned a loyal following. Now, shoppers at Fresh Thyme can grab these delicious treats on the go, made fresh and full of flavor.

This major milestone is made possible with the support of Habitat Neighborhood Business (HNB), a Saint Louis University initiative that helps emerging entrepreneurs develop sustainable businesses through mentorship, resources, and hands-on guidance.

“I’m excited to share my desserts with more people across St. Louis,” said Ismael Wayne. “This is just the beginning, and I’m grateful to Habitat Neighborhood Business for helping me grow as both a business owner and a creator.” 

Founded in 1910, the Richard A. Chaifetz School of Business at Saint Louis University has shaped the future of industry for more than a century. As one of the oldest business schools west of the Mississippi, the Chaifetz School has built a reputation as a leader in business education committed to innovation, inclusion and impact and recognized with eight undergraduate and graduate programs nationally ranked by U.S. News & World Report. 

Established in 2006 by Saint Louis University Chaifetz School alumnus Doug Brown '66, Habitat for Neighborhood Business is a nonprofit organization that partners with volunteers from the school and the local business community to help restore economic vitality to disadvantaged St. Louis neighborhoods. The HNB program at SLU serves 53 minority entrepreneurs who own businesses in north St. Louis City. The nonprofit provides small-business assistance like mentoring on start-up logistics and connections to small business loan programming, an advisory board, and access to a thriving network of aspiring minority entrepreneurs. HNB works with volunteers and entrepreneurs to return retail and service businesses to struggling urban neighborhoods.