Applications open for SKU CPG accelerator’s fall ‘24 track

SKU, the nation’s first accelerator for consumer-packaged goods (CPGs), is now accepting applications for the Fall ‘24 Track. Ideal candidates are market-validated companies with dedicated founders and innovative products in hot categories.

Brands can be from a wide range of categories, including food, beverage, pet care, personal care, apparel and health & wellness. While the program is based in Austin, the program is virtual, and brands and mentors can be located anywhere. The application deadline is May 31. Brands can apply here.

“SKU stands apart as a unique platform that champions emerging brands. Through its robust mentor network and world-class curriculum, SKU provides unparalleled support to these brands, assisting them in becoming investor-ready and accelerating their growth trajectory,” according to Buff Greebe, Executive Director of SKU.

The Fall Track kicks off the week of Sept. 3 and culminates on Nov. 19 with the Showcase Pitch event in Austin - a gathering of CPG leaders and investors from around the country.

“Being part of SKU has truly revolutionized the landscape for Innovative Pet Lab,” said Jamie Smith, co-founder of Innovative Pet Lab. “With our exceptional team of mentors and high-quality classes offered, we now possess the necessary resources and expert guidance to take our business to new heights beyond what we could have ever imagined.”

SKU works by equipping startups with the tools they need to succeed. It’s like getting a PhD in CPG. During the 12-week program, SKU surrounds founders with a customized curriculum focused on the entire CPG ecosystem, advanced operations support, and access to funding.

Weekly classes focus on valuable topics, including Mission + Vision, Branding, Channel Strategy + Sales, Supply Chain, Operations, eCommerce, Digital Market, Social Media and Fundraising.

While the curriculum is best in class, what sets SKU apart are the superstar mentors – a dream team of industry leaders, successful founders, and investment luminaries. Each brand is surrounded by a hand-picked mentor team, all working together throughout the program to help the brand successfully scale.

In addition to the rewards of working with founders, mentors benefit from the experience of working side by side with their peers. SKU is scheduling interviews with accomplished CPG leaders interested in being a mentor. Email [email protected] to schedule an interview.

SKU will host a Company Info Session from 12–1 p.m. CT, Wednesday May 1 and a Mentor Info Session from 2-3 p.m. CT, Friday May 3.

Over the past 13 years, SKU has worked with more than 140 brands, including such successful alumni as Epic Provisions, Wildwonder, Aura Bora, Daily Crunch, Siete and Dude Wipes.

For more information or to apply, please visit, www.sku.is.

About SKU

SKU was founded in 2011 by lawyer Shari Wynne Ressler and serial entrepreneur Clayton Christopher, founder of Sweet Leaf Tea and Deep Eddy Vodka, with the mission of accelerating CPGs. It has been a catalyst in establishing Austin as a CPG powerhouse. Since it was founded, more than 150 companies have completed the SKU program. SKU has gained a national reputation for excellence, with such publications as Forbes naming it one of the top CPG accelerators. Learn more at www.sku.is.