AUSTIN, TEXAS – Ten consumer packaged goods (CPG) startups are joining Whole Foods Market for its Local and Emerging Accelerator Program (Leap) Early Growth track. This year’s startups include: Aahana’s; Bowlcut; Date Better Snacks; Edenesque; Freezecake; Geem; Mate Party; Sam + Leo; Sibeiho; and Tuyyo Foods.
The program, which launched in 2022, aims to build connections with local emerging companies by engaging them in specialized, educational programming and individual mentorship. Cohorts also may qualify for a $25,000 equity investment provided by a donor-advised fund that is overseen by Austin Community Foundation.
Startups will undergo a 12-week curriculum and their products will be considered for inclusion on shelves at Whole Foods Market in their own cities or regional areas, according to Whole Foods.
The startups participating in the Early Growth track are:
- Aahana: Founded by Sonal Khakhar, Aahana is a ready-to-eat beans, rice lentil and quinoa bowl company inspired by Khakhar’s kitchari family recipes.
- Bowlcut: Founded by Crystal Ung, Bowlcut is a Chinese inspired sauce company.
- Date Better Snacks: Founded by Michelle Valdez-Wilton, Date Better Snacks is a maker of stuffed medjool dates covered in a coat of organic chocolate.
- Edenesque: Founded by Leslie Woodward, Edenesque is a maker of oat milk barista blends.
- Freezecake: Founded by Jenifer Shwartz, Freezecake offers freeze-dried cheesecake.
- Geem: Founded by Candice Choi, Geem offers Korean seaweed chips.
- Mate Party: Founded by Jessica Oliverio, Mate Party offers sparkling yerba mate.
- Sam + Leo: Founded by Dara Erck, Sam + Leo offers vitamins for teenagers and children.
- Sibeiho: Co-founded by Holly Ong and Pat Lau, Sibeiho is a Singaporean food startup offering three ready-to-eat Sambal chili sauces.
- Tuyyo Foods: Founded by Garcia Turner, Tuyyo Foods offers a modern line of Hispanic food and beverages.
“Our Local and Emerging Brands team is thrilled to have selected a mix of diverse founders and products from various backgrounds for this year’s Early Growth program track,” said Alyssa Vescio, senior vice president of merchandising at Whole Foods Market. “Connecting with new brands and business owners who are hungry to grow allows our team to diversify product selection in stores, support small businesses, and stay committed to our local communities. We look forward to seeing these 10 brands strive for continued growth and carve their path to success through Whole Foods Market’s mentorship.”