the program

The structure

Startups, entrepreneurs, students, chefs, dairy families, processors, and more are all encouraged to apply for their spot in the cohort. Once applications close, CMAB and VentureFuel will thoroughly vet all applications and select the top eight products/companies to join the Excelerator program.

The eight companies will participate in a 10-week program featuring access to resources, high-quality and customized mentorship, and a group stipend to cover costs associated with producing, developing, and fine-tuning their products and business plans.  

The program showcase will be an in-person (and streamed) pitch event in California, where the eight companies will sample their products and pitch to a panel of industry-leading judges. The scores from these judges, along with input from fans, will determine up to four award recipients, each to receive $50,000. These funds will be theirs to use to develop and/or expand their business, including sourcing dairy from and producing their products in California.

The four award recipients will also gain access to an exclusive Retailer and Investor event (held virtually) to generate business leads and investment opportunities.

A grand prize of $100,000 will be offered to a single product with the most sales and potential one year from the live pitch event. This grand prize will be delivered in the form of marketing support to help accelerate the winner's product and business in California. 

Review the official rules for more details.