#United States #Folsom #Blueberry Boost #USHBC #VentureFuel

Introducing the Blueberry Boost Accelerator to Innovate Food and Consumer Products

The Blueberry Boost Accelerator: A New Era of Innovation in Food and Consumer Products

In an exciting development for the food industry, the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC), collaborating with VentureFuel, has launched the Blueberry Boost Accelerator. This pioneering program seeks to discover and uplift emerging startups committed to innovating blueberry-based products. Applications are currently being accepted, and the deadline is July 11, 2025.

The accelerator runs for nine weeks and focuses on early-stage companies that are generating revenue while utilizing blueberries as a primary ingredient. Participants will have unparalleled access to seasoned industry leaders from various sectors, including food and consumer packaged goods (CPG). They will benefit from targeted mentorship, tailored support for commercialization, and strategic guidance. This comprehensive approach is designed to fast-track their growth across the competitive landscape.

Startups involved in the initiative can expect a range of benefits, including:

- Professional brand assets such as video commercials and sales materials
- Increased media exposure and networking opportunities with buyers and investors
- Participation in THE Blueberry Convention, scheduled for October 8-10 in Seattle, where one winning startup will receive $20,000, and the runner-up will earn $10,000. To qualify, companies need a compliant working product prototype approved under USDA guidelines.

Kasey Cronquist, President of the USHBC, emphasized the organization’s desire to make blueberries ubiquitous in global diets through innovation, partnerships, and research. He remarked, "Blueberries have a wealth of potential beyond their delicious taste, including their health benefits, culinary creativity, and applications across various domains. Our goal is to explore new ideas that ensure blueberries play a larger role in people's daily lives."

The Blueberry Boost Accelerator invites startups in a wide array of CPG categories, including but not limited to:

- Snacks
- Frozen Foods
- Beverages (including alcoholic options)
- Confectionery
- Personal Care Products (skincare and cosmetics)
- Wellness and Performance Items
- Ready-to-Eat Meals
- Sauces and Dressings
- Pet Products

For aspiring entrepreneurs eager to learn more about the program, a virtual information session is planned for June 25 at 12 PM ET. Attendees will gain insights into the application process and areas of interest.

Fred Schonenberg, Founder and CEO of VentureFuel, noted the immense consumer love for blueberries due to their delightful flavor and health advantages. He stated, "There remains significant untapped potential regarding new formats, uses, and applications. Our accelerator aims to connect groundbreaking startups leveraging blueberries with industry leaders and commercial opportunities, creating a pathway for new innovations and growth for the category."

The Blueberry Boost Accelerator reflects the USHBC's commitment to advancing the food industry through sustained innovation. By backing visionary ideas and technology, the USHBC seeks to unite various stakeholders, enhancing the competitive stature of the blueberry sector globally.

To learn more or apply for the Blueberry Boost Accelerator, visit blueberryboostaccelerator.com. For additional resources regarding blueberry usage as an ingredient or supplier information, you can check foodprofessionals.blueberry.org.

Established in 2000, the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC) operates as a federal agriculture research and promotion program, receiving oversight from the USDA. Representing blueberry growers throughout North and South America, the USHBC is pivotal in advocating for efficient, safe growth practices within the blueberry industry. For further information about USHBC’s initiatives and resources, please visit ushbc.blueberry.org.

About VentureFuel

VentureFuel stands as an independent innovation advisory firm, specializing in helping leading organizations bring forth innovation that spurs transformation. By collaborating with startups, their programs enable enterprises to easily adapt and integrate emerging technologies into their existing frameworks—unlocking new growth avenues with reduced risk and heightened consumer engagement. To explore more about VentureFuel, visit venturefuel.net.

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