SKU is an accelerator program for stellar consumer product startups. Startup companies with market-validated consumer products apply to our accelerator program to receive the resources and relationships that they require to become breakout successes and household names. SKU surrounds those stellar startups with a wraparound infrastructure of seasoned entrepreneurial mentors, customized educational content, advanced operations support, and access to funding.
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We can’t wait!
Expo West is the MOST FUN trade show you can come to! Empower YOUR Future – register now to join us March 4-7, 2025 in Anaheim, CA for the premier natural and organic CPG event of the year ✨ 📣 Pricing increases January 1st, 2025 📣 Secure your spot now to save 👉 https://utm.io/uhQSC #expowest #empoweryourfuture #earlybird #cpg #naturalproducts #organic #innovation #anaheim
Words of wisdom from SKU alum Ryan Armistead, founder of Happy Moose Juice!
“The margins are too low.” “Perishable + beverage is a double whammy.” “Juice is dominated by big brands.” “It’s not an exciting space.” And my all time favorite… 👇 “We don’t see a clear opportunity to 10X in 5 years or less. We need to see the hockey stick.” 🌝 Well sir, you nailed it. That’s precisely why we’re here. The moat is real. And my mom taught me that good things take time and nurturing. It may not be shelf stable in a can, but our juice has authentic health value. It tastes amazing! Friends don’t let friends chase the trends. You’re better off methodically pursuing something timeless. And most of the investment community is designed to support boom or bust candidates. Let them call you a tortoise but don't try to race that souped-up, new age soda they call a rocket ship. We'll get to where we’re going. And we’re just fine if they preach that same gospel to everyone else around us. Meanwhile, the moat just keeps getting wider. 🐢
As the year comes to a close, it's a wonderful time to reflect. It was a banner year in every way for the SKU community. We can't thank you enough for all you've done to help us in our mission to support the CPG startup community! Here are a few of the highlights from 2024: - We completed two successful Tracks in the Spring and Fall with passionate and dedicated founders. The Spring Track included Curation Beverage Company, Heather's ChoiceI Love Micheladas, Kelsi's Kitchen, OhhFoods, Sanara and Wellnergy Pets. The Fall Track included Bala Enzyme, Foraged & Found, Kif & co, Modica, Long Table, Peace Love Hormones and The Bloody Buddy. - The Spring '24 and Fall '24 Showcase events boasted record attendance. SKU co-founder Clayton Christopher gave a moving keynote address at the Fall Showcase. - We hit 11.5K LinkedIn Followers. - We hosted happy hours in Austin, Atlanta, Anaheim, Denver, Las Vegas and New York. - Our mentor community grew to over 700 of industry executives, successful founders, subject-matter experts and investors. Both our Spring and Fall Tracks included incredible new mentors as well as our valued veterans. (We filled our mentor spots for Spring '25 and are recruiting for Fall '25.) - We worked with a number of both new and long-time partners, including lead sponsors 7-Eleven DoorDash Justworks Foster Garvey PC Foley & Lardner LLP Propeller Industries, 301 INC and PepsiCo. - We forged exciting new partnerships with such institutions as Jon Brumley Texas Venture Labs, the SMU Cox - Williams S. Spears Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership and Central Texas Angel Network. - The SKU Crew participated on panels at SXSW and SUPERZOO and a number of podcasts. - We hosted monthly Continuing Founder Education classes for our alumni on topics ranging from Protecting Against Lawsuits to Preparing for Expo West. - PepsiCo announced plans to acquire SKU alum Siete Family Foods for $1.2 billion in one of the biggest CPG deals of the year. We can't wait to kick off '25. We have big things in store! Stay up to date on SKU news, upcoming Tracks and events by signing up for our email: https://lnkd.in/gX8n6-g9 Michelle Breyer Buff Greebe Brooke Wilson Maddie S. Adrien Petersen #accelerator #cpgaccelerator #cpg #cpgs #consumerpackagedgoods #startups #cpgstartups #mentors #mentoring #mentorshipmatters #founders #cpgfounders #entpreneurialstory
SKU alum All Y'alls Foods just unveiled its latest delicious plant-based topper! Brett Christoffel Michelle Breyer Buff Greebe Maddie S. Adrien Petersen
All Y’alls Foods heeds the call of consumer demand to enjoy cheese-flavored snacks without dairy or gluten. CROSSROADS, TX December 12th, 2024 — All Y’alls Foods is shaking up the plant-based scene with the launch of IT’S BIG CRUNCHY CHEEZY BITS Y’ALL—a game-changing cheezy garlic topper that’s as bold in flavor as it is kind to the planet. Joining their fan-favorite, It’s Big Crunchy Bacony Bits Y’all, in their Tasty Toppers lineup, these cheezy bits are now available in both retail and soon food service channels—making it easier than ever to top your dishes with compassion and flavor. Finally, a cheezy snack that moves beyond the bounds of gluten and dairy. Crafted from whole organic soybeans, these cheese and garlic-flavored crunchy bits are as versatile as they are delicious. Whether sprinkled over a crisp green salad or potatoes, layered into a warm grain bowl, or enjoyed straight from the bag, It’s Big Crunchy Cheezy Bits Y’all take plant-based snacking and dining to the next level. “We know consumers have been seeking cleaner dairy and gluten-free options beyond the established swimmers and square cheese snacks that have been around for decades, so we make ours without gluten, GMOs, or dairy. Plus, they have an impressive 33 grams of protein per 2.69 oz bag,” said Brett Christoffel, Founder & CEO of All Y’alls Foods. “Because we do not use artificial coloring, these are not cute, nor are they uniform in shape or color, but what they are is full of enjoyable flavor, crunch, and protein. Check out the website to see them for yourself!” Available Now Starting today, It’s Big Crunchy Cheezy Bits Y’all will initially be available only online through their website by the end of the year, they will begin appearing at select retailers nationwide, including Amazon. Shoppers can follow All Y’alls Foods on Instagram for the latest updates and recipes featuring our exciting new product. About All Y’alls Foods All Y’alls Foods was founded in 2018 by Brett Christoffel to help answer a growing consumer demand for plant-based proteins. The company seeks to nourish and delight customers, remove animals from the process, and place minimal burden on the planet. #vegan #ceos #plantbased #business
What a huge accomplishment for SKU alum Esker Beauty, a disruptive brand in the skincare category! Congrats to founder Shannon Davenport for all the determination and passion she puts into building the business. Michelle Breyer Buff Greebe Brooke Wilson Maddie S. Adrien Petersen #beauty #skincare #skincareproducts #beautyindustry #beautystartups #indiebrands
HOLY Q4! This was a record breaking quarter for Esker Beauty and for the first time we far exceeded our forecast and actually sold out of some of our bestsellers. Each step of the way, our customers and community have been at the heart of our journey, inspiring us to create, innovate, and celebrate the beauty of bodycare. Super grateful to all who have supported us. Here’s a glimpse of what we achieved this year! Esker’s 2024 By the Numbers 30 New Bloomingdale’s Locations This year, we expanded into 30 Bloomingdale’s stores—making Esker rituals even easier to find. 60+ Press Features We were spotlighted in Allure, InStyle, Forbes, People, and featured live on Good Morning America (TWICE) and The Today Show. 100% This year, we launched 100% PET recyclable Hand Cleanser Refill Pouches—a step toward more sustainable skincare. Together, we’re making a positive impact on the planet. 2 NEW all-natural Aromatic Shower Steamer scents featured in the Shower Steamer Discovery Set. 4 Beauty & Grooming Awards Our rituals made waves—and won big. Best Shower Steamer | New Beauty Awards Best Body Powder | Men’s Health Grooming Awards Top Tools | Organic Spa Media Beauty Awards Top Body Cleansers | Organic Spa Media Beauty Awards $10,000+ Donated We gave back, donating over $10,000 to the Xerces Society to help protect pollinators and preserve our planet.
Finding the perfect gift for the chef on your list involves selecting items that inspire creativity and show appreciation for their passion. SKU brands offer the everything from specialty sauces, cookbooks and items that add beauty to the kitchen. Raven + Lily Upcycled Horn Nesting Bowls ($85, Get 20 percent off with discount code HOLIDAYSKU20) This set of three bowls made out of upcycled blonde and dark horn. https://lnkd.in/gYYvEsuX Raven + Lily is an artisan-based and women-led lifestyle brand with a global perspective in the sustainable movement. Mesa de Vida Healthy, Globally Inspired Cooking Sauce Bundle ($41) These Caribbean, Creole, Latin, Mediterranean and Moroccan inspired cooking sauces help you craft easy, homemade meals into a celebration of flavor. https://lnkd.in/gYRgHMyB Mesa de Vida's chef-crafted pantry staples provide quick and healthy meal prep solution. Foraged & Found Pickled Kelp Sampler Gift Bundle ($24) Get one of each of the pickled Alaskan kelp flavors. https://lnkd.in/eGkmpjJV Foraged & Found is revolutionizing pantry staples using kelp and other aquatic plants. Maazah Sauce Lover’s Collection ($6.29/bottle) The Lemon Aioli, Cilantro Chutney and Mango Chutney transform ordinary dishes into fresh, one-of-a-kind meals. https://lnkd.in/gEvQVK6Y Maazah reimagines Middle Eastern cuisine. Sienna Sauce Co. Variety Pack ($38.84) This set includes one each of the Sweet & Tangy, Lemon Pepper and Spice It Up sauces. https://lnkd.in/gFy42jJG Whether used as a marinade, dipping sauce, or finishing touch, Sienna Sauce brings a unique and unforgettable taste to every meal. K-Mama Sauce, LLC Ultimate Gift Box ($39.99) This gift box comes with Mild & Spicy in both regular and gluten-free options as well as two mini travel-sized bottles. https://lnkd.in/gb5Bg6Ah K-Mama is packed with authentic Korean gochujang flavor and just the right amount of spice for a new generation. Siete Family Foods The Siete Table: Nourishing Mexican-American Recipes from Our Kitchen. ($35) The Garza Family share smore than 100 delicious gluten-free Mexican-American dishes that span every course and occasion. https://lnkd.in/gZGBMN7e Siete a Mexican-American food brand rooted in family that makes delicious heritage-inspired, healthy products. Michelle Breyer Buff Greebe Brooke Wilson Maddie S. Adrien Petersen Kirsten Helle Sandoval Kinda Lincoln Yasameen Sajady, MBA Jenn Brown Tyla-Simone Crayton Monique Crayton #giftguide #emergingbrand #sauces #internationalsauces #condiments #kitchenware #cookbooks #startups #emergingbrands #cpgaccelerator #accelerator
Check out this podcast with SKU alums Shaz Rajashekar and Kiku Chaudhuri, founders of SHAZ & KIKS ! Michelle Breyer Buff Greebe Brooke Wilson Adrien Petersen Maddie S. Shaz Rajashekar Kiku Chaudhuri #haircare #haircareproducts #beauty #beautyindustry #beautyproducts
This podcast was one of the most fun ones we've done - and one near and dear to our hearts recorded at our alma The University of Texas at Austin. Thank you to the Kendra Scott Women's Entrepreneurial Leadership Institute @kswelinstitute Listen now on Spotify and Apple Podcasts!🎙️ https://lnkd.in/g4yg74st
Finding the perfect presents for new parents or parents-to-be can be a thoughtful way to celebrate their growing family. From self-care gifts to practical presents, SKU alums offer some great options. Pippy Sips Maia. ($91.99) Maia® allows you to cool, store and monitor your breastmilk in one convenient product. Say goodbye to storing your breastmilk among leftover sandwiches or packing a bulky cooler. www.pippysips.com Pippy Sips is on a mission to create products that make pumping easier and more accessible to ALL breastfeeders. It’s time to add simplicity to your pumping experience and to make breastmilk even cooler. Esker Beauty Belly Oil Duo ($75) Esker’s Belly Oil Duo is ready to nourish, soothe, moisturize, and protect an expecting mother’s tender skin. Use Uplifting Belly Oil in the morning to moisturize and energize the skin. Use Soothing Belly Oil at night to wind down the mind and nourish the skin. https://lnkd.in/gPY7Tmfy Esker Beauty provides luxurious rituals for the skin below your chin. Mosie Baby Kit ($109, SIgn up for emails and get 10% off first order.) Each Mosie Baby Kit includes 2 Patented Mosie Insemination Syringes and 2 Mosie Semen Collection Cups that arrive ready to use with supportive instructions. Mosie Baby is the the First FDA Cleared At Home Syringe Insemination Kit. Tend Variety Box ($139)The world’s first real food prenatal bar, made with 25 nutrients (exclusively from fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds) to support mama’s energy and baby’s development. Enjoy a month's worth of bars in your choice of flavors: Peanut Butter Chocolate, Lemon Berry, Chocolate Sea Salt Strawberry Peach https://lnkd.in/eCu4Ux3G Tend is the world’s first real food prenatal bar, made with 25 nutrients (exclusively from fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds) to support mama’s energy and baby’s development. Amberlee Venti Behzad Varamini, Ph.D. Hannah Varamini Marc Brown Maureen Brown Shannon Davenport Michelle Breyer Brooke Wilson Buff Greebe Adrien Petersen Maddie S. #prenatal #babies #babyproducts #prenatalproducts #prenatalvitamins #bodycare #maternity #maternityproducts
As the year comes to a close, we want to show our appreciation for our incredible mentor community. Now over 700 people strong, you are the best of the best! We can't thank you enough for sharing your expertise, guidance, time and support. By sharing lessons from your own entrepreneurial journeys, you help our founders navigate challenges and avoid common pitfalls. Your fresh perspectives on critical business decisions ensure they consider all angles before taking the next step. Your generosity in connecting founders with your networks propels their businesses forward. Your technical insights in areas like marketing, channel strategy, and operations are transformative. Most importantly, your encouragement during pivotal moments provides our founders with the motivation and confidence they need to succeed. And you do it all with such passion, dedication and empathy. You are what makes SKU so special. Buff Greebe Brooke Wilson Michelle Breyer Adrien Petersen Maddie S. #cpgaccelerator #accelerator #mentors #mentorship #mentorshipmatters #mentoring #startups #cpgstartups #founders #founderstory #entrepreneurialjourney #cpg #cpgs #consumerpackagedgoods
Cast your vote for SKU alum Funky Mello for the Fifteen Percent Pledge 2025 Achievement Award. Public voting will close on December 15, 2024 at 11:59pm ET, so get your votes in now! The top three brands will be invited to the 2025 Gala at Paramount Studios in Los Angeles, where our $200,000, $35,000, and $15,000 grants will be announced live. The Fifteen Percent Pledge is a non-profit organization that encourages retailers to dedicate at least 15% of their shelf space, sales revenue, and annual spend to Black-owned businesses https://lnkd.in/erQPNauC Zach H. Delisa Harper