Small Business Mentoring with Erin

Erin Mann is a passionate entrepreneur, dedicated mentor, and highly sought-after expert in economic development, mentorship, and consumer safety. With a diverse background that spans several industries, Erin is committed to helping small food and maker businesses thrive by providing the guidance they need to operate efficiently, legally, and successfully in their markets.

Erin holds a PhD (abd) in Public Safety from Capella University, a Master's of Science from the University of Alabama, a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Alabama, and is a Certified Holistic Health and Nutrition Coach through the Nutraphoria School of Holistic Nutrition. She is also a Better Processes Control Manager and a Servsafe Certified Instructor and Proctor. Her academic and professional achievements have equipped her with a well-rounded perspective, allowing her to address both the strategic and operational challenges faced by entrepreneurs in today's competitive landscape. When time allows, Erin enjoys speaking engagement requests for retreats, conferences or classes. 

As the owner and founder of Erin’s Elderberries, The Kitchen at Vint Hill, and Raising Tiny Healthy Humans, Erin has firsthand experience creating, building and managing successful businesses. These ventures have enabled her to refine her expertise in entrepreneurship, event planning, consumer safety, and community engagement. Erin’s extensive experience also includes serving on the Governing Board of Directors and as Central Region Representative for Market Managers with the Virginia Farmer’s Market Association, where she develops educational resources and teaches courses such as the beginner-friendly and advanced Market Manager’s Certification courses (Level 101 and 201).

Erin’s dedication to her community is evident through her volunteer efforts. She offers free mentoring to small food and maker businesses who may not have the ability yet to pay, helping them navigate state legal guidelines and ensuring they are set up for long-term success. To date, Erin has mentored over 65 small businesses across 12 states, contributing to the growth and resilience of countless entrepreneurs. Her ability to network and foster meaningful connections has had a positive ripple effect, benefiting her local community and the broader small business ecosystem.

Her leadership credentials are further emphasized by her time on the Board of the Warrenton Farmer’s Market, Saint Michael's Academy Board of Directors, as well as her role loal and regional community involvement efforts that mentor peers and create opportunities for collaboration among small business owners. Erin’s outstanding contributions have earned her significant media attention, with features in Fox5DC, Allrecipes, Living Local DMV, Forbes, Warrenton Lifestyle, Fauquier Times, Fauquier Now, Prince William Times, Middleburg Life, First Time Parent Magazine, and Brookside Neighbors Magazine.

Erin Mann is a consummate professional, dedicated mentor, and a beacon of inspiration for small food businesses. Her wealth of knowledge, experience, and passion makes her an exceptional guide for entrepreneurs navigating the complexities of launching and running their ventures. For those seeking expert mentorship, Erin embodies the perfect combination of expertise, compassion, and drive to help others succeed. When not at work, Erin enjoys time with her Husband Craig, son Lucas, and their pets Lucy and Oliver.