Plymouth Entrepreneur Wins $30K Prize to Develop Pumping Bra
Ashley Mooneyham faced a challenge that many new moms face.
“I went back to work after eight weeks, even though I had no trouble breastfeeding, I really struggled getting enough breast milk using the breast pump and that’s not uncommon,” Mooneyham said.
The Plymouth mom was surprised to learn there weren’t many great answers. She went to work to develop a solution.
“It kind of warmed its idea into my brain. I couldn’t let go of it,” recalled Mooneyham, who started a company called Momease Solutions. “I found that scientific-supported studies showing that warmth alone or massage alone can really increase the milk output in less time. And I was shocked to see that no product existed that could offer me this.”
Mooneyham created a wearable pumping bra concept that could apply warmth and message using pockets of heated water.
“Breast pumps are typically using suction only as a mechanism. And that’s just inefficient in itself,” said Mooneyham. “Rather than trying to find 20-minute, 30-minute breaks throughout the day every two to three hours, you can get in half the time with a 50 percent increase in milk output by using a product like this.”
Ashley Mooneyham shows the sketch of her very first pumping bra prototype.
Her idea has garnered a positive response. Mooneyham’s was one of 15 business pitches chosen to compete for a top prize at Hy-Vee’s OpportUNITY Inclusive Business Summit aimed at supporting businesses owned by women and persons of color. The winning pitch received a $30,000 prize. A panel of judges chose Mooneyham’s company.
“I was shocked to win because I really thought I was too early stage,” said Mooneyham. “This is going to make a huge difference in my business.”
Momease Solutions has secured enough funds to develop a physical prototype. The $30,000 prize will help the company with the testing component.
“What was missing is my ability to bring in women and test the prototype,” said Mooneyham. “This money will allow me to coordinate a user feedback study.”
Mooneyham says that feedback will be crucial in developing the final product. She says it could take about a year’s time to reach the manufacturing and sales stage.
“I wasn’t intending to be a business owner, but this idea matters too much. It’s too important to not pursue.”
Also See: Golden Valley Entrepreneur Competes for $30K Business Prize
