Brand Profile:
Entrepreneur, mother, wife and so much more, Bella Bars’ founder, Nicole Ingram, is a real go-getter! She launched Bella Bars in January 2020, at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, and has steadily grown the business ever since – watch for her bars soon at Central Market. Her inspiration comes from her father who told her, “be an entrepreneur and start something that you love.” Read more on DFWCPG.com.
Locally owned brand, Hail Mary is making waves at Whole Foods. They look so yummy!
Area popcorn maker, Deanan has been chosen out of scores of applicants for 7-Eleven Brands w/Heart program. Karen Alexander, the company’s Chief of Business Development comments, “We are thrilled to share that Deanan Gourmet Popcorn has been selected by 7-Eleven!” Know of an innovative brand with an up-and-coming product? Next year’s applications are just around the corner. For more info about 7-Eleven Brands w/Heart, click here.
Attention Founders:
Do you have a natural-focused brand? There are two great opportunities for you coming up soon.
Dallas’ Impact Venture’s LEAP (Local Entrepreneurs Accelerator Program) is a 12-week 100% virtual program starting Sept. 1. Founders participate in group pitch sessions, weekly online learning modules, and peer-to-peer groups and have access to a network of mentors, coaches, and affiliate service providers. Apply here.
A BIPOC opportunity: Naturally Network, in partnership with NielsenIQ, is launching the first nationwide cohort of the M/O Fellowship, a 12-week program that supports the success of racially and ethnically under-represented CPG Founders. Apply here through August 31.
DFW CPG Partner News:
DALLAS STARTUP WEEK (August 7-11), brought to us by the Dallas Entrepreneur Center and sponsored by Capital One, will bring together entrepreneurs and change-makers for a week-long experience, described as the largest entrepreneurial event in North Texas, where they exchange ideas, collaborate, and grow. This year, the event is going hybrid offering both in-person opportunities on the SMU Cox School of Business campus and also live-streamed. On August 8th, at 1pm, please join the DFW CPG event featuring Kathy Guzman Galloway, Adam Franks with 7-Eleven, Nik Hall with vitafive and Braden Douglas with CREW Marketing who will be speaking about Retail Presence and Brand Purpose. Register now for these free events here.
As part of DALLAS STARTUP WEEK, on August 10, Women of Innovation will recognize, encourage and advance women leaders who have the courage and passion to transform their ideas and ambitions into reality. Featuring a dynamic group of leading visionaries, the entire day will celebrate, inspire and connect change-makers across a variety of markets and industries.
Learn more about DALLAS STARTUP WEEK here. Also check out the DEC: Entrepreneurship Programs | Startup Business Investment | The DEC Network.
Mentors Needed:
Are you a top executive in the industry, a successful founder or an investor? Are you a leading expert on such topics such as e-commerce or branding? SKU is currently recruiting mentors for SKU Dallas, which will take place from August 23rd – November 15th. You need not be based in Dallas to mentor for this hybrid program. If you are interested in learning more about being a SKU mentor, we would love to talk with you. Email Michelle Breyer.
The Santander Food Business Accelerator Program is seeking food CPG industry mentors for its fall program in DFW. Time commitment is only 3 hours – but your involvement could make a world of difference for an eager entrepreneur. Click here for more information on mentorship and here to register by August 20.
Check out Kroger’s new virtual food court in partnership with Kitchen United at their Mockingbird location in Dallas. Customers can bundle orders from restaurants such as Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop and Carl’s Jr. into one pickup or delivery order. It’s an innovative way that Kroger is offering customers more one-stop solutions for their shopping and dining needs.
The Southern United States Trade Association (SUSTA) is a State Regional Trade Group that helps small companies in the south meet qualified foreign buyers and promote their products internationally through trade shows with discounted booth space and via trade missions around the world. SUSTA hosts over 30 events annually, including bringing buyers to Texas to meet one-on-one with companies. Also, businesses can get reimbursed up to 50% of expenses for travel to shows, advertising, freight, in-store demos and more. SUSTA is FREE to join at www.susta.org or contact GoGlobal@TexasAgriculture.gov for information.
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