Oceeto’s Care’digan™ Wraps Moms in Innovation and Support
Founded by Andrea and Austin Hess, Oceeto is bringing practical style and heartfelt innovation to caregivers everywhere, starting right here in Delaware. What began as one mom’s frustrating experience during the newborn phase became the inspiration behind their first product: The Care’digan™, a patented, multipurpose cardigan designed with busy caregivers in mind. Built from soft, absorbent rib knit and featuring magnetic closures and deep pockets, The Care’digan™ was created to comfortably and quickly cover the entire upper body—eliminating the guesswork of where messes might land. With a design that’s as practical as it is polished, it helps moms move through the day with confidence and ease.
The Oceeto Story
With nearly a decade of development behind it, The Care’digan™ reflects Oceeto’s mission: to give moms and caregivers more time for big moments with their little ones. From its thoughtful name—Oceeto, a play on the Spanish word ‘osito’ meaning “little bear”—to its purpose-built design, the business reflects its founders’ values of care, resilience, and family.
Since launching, Oceeto has gained momentum not just with customers, but within the Delaware entrepreneurial community. In fall 2024, Oceeto was selected as one of the Division of Small Business’s EDGE Grant recipients, earning $50,000 to further their mission and expand their reach. They also advanced to the semifinal round of the Swim with the Sharks pitch competition hosted by the New Castle County Chamber of Commerce.
From Concept to Commerce
Andrea and Austin are looking to the future – getting the Care’digan into the hands of ‘those who help littles’ with a go-to-market strategy and some funding to start strong. These founders have worked with support from the Delaware SBDC. Advisor Apryl King helped guide them on business financials and go-to-market strategy, and under the guidance of Elyce Hall and the iDEa Lab cohort, they worked to better articulate their value proposition. Oceeto sharpened both its product messaging and its plans for capital growth. “For me, the SBDC has been a safe training ground, a place where I can ask questions openly, receive honest feedback, and, when needed, get that extra push to improve and grow,” Andrea shared. “It’s really a hidden gem—an invaluable resource for small businesses, especially for people like me that have no prior experience building a business.”
As Oceeto prepares to scale, the Delaware SBDC is proud to support their journey—and to help more entrepreneurs like Andrea and Austin bring meaningful solutions to life.
Check out our iDEa Lab Cohort or sign up to chat with an SBDC advisor – much like with a Care’digan, you’ll be wrapped in support!
