First-Ever Blueberry Boost Accelerator Seeks Next Generation of Food and Consumer Product Innovation
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FOLSOM, Calif., June 2, 2025 ~ The U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC) has announced the launch of a new program, the Blueberry Boost Accelerator, in partnership with VentureFuel. This program aims to discover and support emerging startups that are revolutionizing the future of blueberries. Applications for the accelerator are now open and will be reviewed on a rolling basis until July 11, 2025 at 11:59 pm PT.

The nine-week hybrid accelerator program is designed to connect early-stage companies that use blueberries as a prominent ingredient with top industry leaders in the blueberry, food, and Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) sectors. Through expert mentorship, tailored commercialization support, and strategic guidance, these companies will have the opportunity to fast-track their growth. Participants will also receive professional brand assets such as video commercials and sales materials, gain media exposure, and connect with buyers, investors, and innovation leaders. The program will culminate in a showcase at The Blueberry Convention on October 8-10 in Seattle where the grand prize winner will receive $20,000 and the runner-up will win $10,000.

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To be eligible for the program, companies must have a safe and working product prototype that has been reviewed under USDA oversight. "USHBC's vision is to make blueberries the world's favorite fruit by fueling demand through innovation, partnerships, and research," said Kasey Cronquist, president of USHBC. "Blueberries are packed with possibilities - from health and nutrition to snacking, culinary creativity, functional ingredients and beyond. This program is about uncovering the next generation of ideas that will help blueberries earn a larger role in consumers' everyday lives."

The Blueberry Boost Accelerator is seeking startups of CPG products across various categories including snacks, frozen foods, beverages (including alcoholic options), confectionery items, personal care products (such as skincare and cosmetics), wellness and performance products, ready-to-eat meals, sauces and dressings, and even pet products. Interested entrepreneurs can RSVP for a virtual information session on June 25 at 12 pm ET to learn more about the program, areas of interest, and the application process.

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"Blueberries are beloved by consumers for their taste and health benefits, yet there is so much untapped potential when it comes to new formats, uses, and applications," said Fred Schonenberg, founder and CEO of VentureFuel. "Our accelerator connects the best startups working with blueberries with industry leaders and commercial opportunities to fast-track their innovations and unlock new growth opportunities for the category."

This initiative highlights USHBC's commitment to leadership in the food system through innovation. By investing in new ideas, technology, and entrepreneurs, USHBC aims to unite stakeholders and strengthen the industry's global competitiveness.

For more information or to apply for the Blueberry Boost Accelerator program, interested parties can visit blueberryboostaccelerator.com. Additionally, those looking for resources on using blueberries as an ingredient or finding suppliers can visit foodprofessionals.blueberry.org.
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