NEW YORK — Denise Woodard, founder and CEO of Partake Foods, was recognized as a 2025 CNBC Changemaker.
The second annual CNBC Changemakers list highlights women who are transforming business and philanthropy and showcases biotech breakthroughs, AI advances, women’s health, and consumer and social innovations. A wide-ranging list of leaders was acknowledged for their meaningful achievements in 2024.
Woodard’s most notable achievement was bringing Partake, an allergy-friendly snack brand, to JetBlue airlines. The top nine allergen-free treats expand the airline’s in-flight snack catalog for consumers facing dietary restrictions.
“I’m so proud to appear alongside such admirable women and fortunate to call a few of them friends,” Woodard said via a LinkedIn post. “Congratulations to everyone who made the list. But I didn’t make this list alone — the women-led team and Board of Directors at Partake Foods show the power of what’s possible when women have a meaningful seat at the table.”
Woodard’s brand has attracted a wide range of investors including singer Rihanna, Jay-Z’s investment firm Marcy Venture Partners, and John Foraker, former CEO of Annie’s Homegrown and co-founder of Once Upon a Farm.
Partake products are available at retailers nationwide. The brand also partnered with DoubleTree by Hilton to expand the hotel chain’s signature welcome cookie to include an allergen-friendly soft chocolate chip cookie.
