At just 10 years old, Tyler Sullivan of Roswell wasn’t thinking about launching a business—he was just trying to pay off a $200 debt to his parents. During the COVID lockdowns, like many kids, Tyler spent more time playing video games. One accidental (on purpose) online purchase later, and his parents weren’t too thrilled. With all his electronics taken away until he paid them back, Tyler quickly realized that household chores weren’t going to cut it.
“I had barely made $10 after a week of chores,” Tyler recalled. “So I knew I needed to do something different.”
That turned out to be Sully's Slammin Fresh Salsa.
“My dad had a salsa recipe that everyone loved, so I tweaked it to make it my own, and started selling it door to door in the neighborhood,” said Tyler. “It became so popular, I could barely keep up with the demand.”
Next, he moved to a commercial kitchen, then started selling at farmers markets. The fresh, homemade taste of Sully’s Salsa quickly made it a crowd favorite. Encouraged by customers, Tyler began entering food competitions—and winning.
“This is an adventure I never dreamed would happen,” admitted Tyler. “I’ve learned so many life lessons, gained business experience, and met amazing people. Plus, I’m getting a head start on my education since I want to be a business major in college.”
Sully’s Salsa now features two award-winning flavors: the mild “My Little Brother Can Eat It” and the spicy “Mom Says It’s Too Hot.” The mild salsa even took home the title of Best Salsa in Georgia at the Flavors of Georgia competition, hosted by the University of Georgia, and has placed second in national contests twice.
When asked what advice he’d give to other aspiring young entrepreneurs, Tyler’s message was simple: “You should never give up. It doesn’t come without hard times and sacrifices, but if you stay motivated, you’ll be successful.”
His parents couldn’t be more impressed. “We could not be more proud of Tyler and the business he has created,” gushed Kristen and Benjamin Sullivan. “Add in the fact that the salsa is so tasty, and it’s an experience we feel so blessed to be a part of. We can only imagine where Tyler and Sully’s Salsa will go from here.”
Being a teenage entrepreneur means the future is wide open. Tyler is expanding into more retail stores, aiming for 20+ by year’s end, and growing his online presence. With school as his priority, he balances business with learning. This summer, he’ll be at local farmers market, saving for a car—stop by!
“Years ago, if you told me I would have created the one of the best-tasting salsas in the country, I would never have believed you, because the only thing I can cook is ramen,” Tyler joked. “But somehow, I did it.”
With a recipe for success that includes hard work, passion, and just the right amount of spice, Tyler Sullivan’s salsa story is just getting started.
Visit sullyssalsa.com to order online, or find it at local farmers markets and stores around the area.