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Naturally Network Celebrates Its Five-Year Anniversary with the Naturally Rising Pitch Competition

Naturally Network is excited to announce the opening of applications for its 2026 Regional Naturally Rising pitch competitions, marking a significant milestone as the esteemed program enters its fifth year. This initiative focuses on promoting growth and visibility for emerging, purpose-driven brands within the ever-evolving natural products industry.

A Testament to Conscious Business Practices

Since its inception, Naturally Rising has showcased a diverse array of conscious leaders and innovative brands that prioritize sustainability and social responsibility. The initiative is deeply rooted in Naturally Network's quintuple bottom line, often referred to as the 5 Ps: passion, purpose, people, planet, and prosperity. Through these principles, the competition provides a platform for emerging entrepreneurs to gain valuable insights and mentorship as they navigate the complexities of the retail landscape.

The Competition Framework

The competition kicks off with local chapters organizing their own Naturally Rising pitch events, allowing entrepreneurs to compete at a regional level. Founders gain increased local visibility, forge significant industry connections, and have the chance to present their ideas to their local Naturally community. Moreover, winners from each region will earn the opportunity to compete nationally at Newtopia Now for prestigious awards including:

• - National Champion
• - Emerging Impact
• - People's Choice

Upcoming Application Deadlines

As entrepreneurs prepare their pitches, it is crucial to note key deadlines for regional applications:

• - February 6, 2026: Naturally Colorado, Naturally NorCal
• - February 13, 2026: Naturally San Diego
• - March 20, 2026: Naturally Austin, Chicago, Los Angeles, Minnesota, New England, New York, Seattle, Wisconsin

Holly Arbuckle, founder of Singing Pastures and the 2025 National Emerging Impact Winner, reflected on her experience: "Participating in Naturally Rising challenged us in productive ways, opened doors we couldn't have imagined, and helped us establish crucial connections. The insights gained continue to guide our brand’s growth."

Past Winners and Judges

The competition has previously recognized remarkable talents in the natural products sector, such as Simon Solis-Cohen from Huxley in 2025, Ben Bacon from Lentiful in 2024, and Peetachai Dejkraisak from Jasberry in 2023. Esteemed judges hailing from notable organizations like Whole Foods Market and Sprouts Farmers Market assess the pitches, providing invaluable feedback and recognition.

Regional Prize Packages

The nature of the prizes varies from chapter to chapter, but winners are typically rewarded with benefits including a complimentary booth from New Hope Network, allowing them to exhibit as part of the Naturally Rising pavilion. This exposure helps participants gain further traction within the industry.

A Platform for Future Leaders

Audarshia Townsend, Content Director at Informa Markets and a judge at Naturally Rising, emphasized the program’s long-term impact: "Naturally Rising serves as more than just a pitch competition; it elevates emerging founders and highlights the future brands defining the natural products industry. I am thrilled to see how the program continues to flourish, culminating with the national finals at Newtopia Now in 2026."

How to Join

Aspiring applicants are encouraged to learn more and submit their applications through the link provided here. For any inquiries, there will be an informational session on January 22, 2026, where interested individuals can gain further insights into the pitching process and guidelines.

About Naturally Network

Naturally Network stands as the largest membership organization dedicated to fostering collaboration and transformation within the U.S. natural products industry. Originating two decades ago in Boulder, Colorado, as a regional hub for innovative industry entrepreneurs, Naturally Network has now expanded into a vibrant ecosystem, serving 11 regional chapters nationwide. With a mission to amplify the impact of conscious business practices in the consumer packaged goods industry, Naturally Network is revolutionizing the future of natural products. To learn more, visit their official website.