Last post I mentioned the Huggies® MomInspired™  Grant Program, which celebrates moms who solve real parenting challenges in innovative ways. I talked to Huggies® to get more information on this amazing program and they explained that, they recognize that there is a dynamic and talented community of moms who strive to make life as a parent easier and more enjoyable every day. They want moms from all walks of life to channel their moments of ingenuity into products that help improve the lives of all moms. This year, Huggies is awarding a select group of moms a $15,000 grant to get their ideas off the ground. I always knew that I loved Huggies  (I truly don’t know what I would do without their overnight diapers and PullUps!) but now I am grateful to them in a whole new way.

In 2010 and 2011, the Huggies MomInspired program awarded 21 grants and provided resources and seed capital to help fund business startups and the development of new products.

Last year’s grant winners include Romy Taormina who invented Psi Bands. Psi Bands are FDA-cleared acupressure wristbands for the relief of nausea due to morning sickness, motion sickness, anesthesia and chemotherapy. Psi Bands are uniquely drug-free, stylist, waterproof, adjustable, reusable and affordable! Oh how I wish I had these for my daily commute on the ferry boat during my first trimester! With the help of the Huggies MomInspired program, Romy grew the Psi Bands business, became an Oprah O Magazine pick and now has distribution in more than 6,000 nationwide retail locations.

Another grant winner was Suzanne Hansen who created Plan2Sleep, the Baby Sleep Coach Program. Plan 2 Sleep offers a customized plan for each family’s needs and provides daily support with a personal coach. As a mom of 2 little boys who do not sleep through the night, I have read every sleep-training book ever written. I’ve highlighted, taken notes, tabbed pages and have even made charts but have had little success. Even with a plan in place, when your baby is screaming at 3am, there is a feeling of desperation that I can’t explain. I should check out Suzanne’s Plan2Sleep services! 

These moms took a problem from their own lives and turned it into a prospering business. Are you inspired yet?

Huggies® is now accepting applications for the 2012 Huggies® MomInspired™ grant program. You can learn more and submit original, innovative and viable new business and product ideas now at HuggiesMomInspired.com through July 31, 2012. Grants will be announced and awarded in t fall of 2012. Good luck!