The first-ever Blueberry Boost Accelerator seeks the next generation of food and consumer product innovation
The US Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC), in partnership with VentureFuel, has announced the launch of the Blueberry Boost Accelerator.
This is a new programme designed to discover and support emerging startups that are ”redefining the future of blueberries”.
The nine-week hybrid accelerator programme will connect early-stage, revenue-generating companies of products using blueberries as a prominent ingredient with top blueberry, food and consumer packaged goods industry leaders, to fast-track growth through expert mentorship, tailored commercialisation support and strategic guidance.
Participants will receive professional brand assets like video commercials and sales materials; gain media exposure; and connect with buyers, investors and innovation leaders, USHBC said.
Startups will refine their pitch with one-on-one support and showcase their product at The Blueberry Convention on 8-10 October in Seattle, where the grand prize winner will receive US$20,000 and the runner-up will win US $10,000.
To be eligible, companies must have a safe, working product prototype that has been reviewed under USDA oversight.
“USHBC’s vision is to make blueberries the world’s favourite fruit by fuelling demand through innovation, partnerships and research,” said Kasey Cronquist, president of USHBC.
“Blueberries are packed with possibilities – from health and nutrition to snacking, culinary creativity, functional ingredients and beyond.
”This programme is about uncovering the next generation of ideas that will help blueberries earn a larger role in consumers’ everyday lives,” Cronquist outlined.
The Blueberry Boost Accelerator is seeking startups of CPG products across a wide range of categories, including but not limited to snacks, frozen, beverages, confectionery, personal care, wellness and performance, ready-to-eat meals, sauces and dressings, and pet products.
“Blueberries are beloved by consumers for their taste and health benefits, yet there is so much untapped potential when it comes to new formats, uses, and applications,” said Fred Schonenberg, founder and CEO of VentureFuel.
“Our accelerator connects the best startups working with blueberries with industry leaders and commercial opportunities to fast-track their innovations and unlock new growth opportunities for the category.”
