Brooklyn, NY
“Raaka is the rare social enterprise that has a gifted and dedicated leadership team, an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place, a product that’s irresistible and a business strategy that’s both innovative and practical. I view my investment in Raaka as one that will not only benefit me directly, but also support a model of how business can contribute to the well being of people and the planet.”
Raaka makes chocolate from unroasted cacao beans. Their unique low temperature process preserves beneficial antioxidants and highlights each farm’s natural, wild flavors, bringing you closer to the bean. Raaka is committed to making delicious chocolate while building healthy relationships with the planet and the global community. Their vegan, allergen-free chocolates are made with directly traded cocoa beans from sustainable farms that offer cocoa farmers above market price.
Ryan Cheney, Founder and President
Ryan Cheney founded the company in 2010 to make minimally-processed chocolate which actually tastes like cocoa beans and expand prosperous cocoa farming communities by providing meaningful market access through ethical, direct-trade business practices.
Nathan Hodge, Head Chocolate Maker
Nate Hodge has been with the company since its founding in 2010. Nate’s passion for innovative food techniques led to a 2013 Good Food Award for inventing a Bourbon Cask Aged chocolate bar. Prior to joining, Nate earned a BA from Ithaca College and was a beer sommelier at Ithaca Brewery.
Matt Keesan joined Raaka in 2012. Formerly a Director of Engineering at AddThis.com, Matt has applied his deep technical understanding to implementing Raaka’s monthly chocolate subscription plan and SEO.