SnackFutures, the innovation and venture hub of Mondel?z International, has launched CoLab, a new startup engagement program for early-stage well-being snack brands.
CoLab is a 12-week program customized based on each participant’s business challenges and growth priorities with a key emphasis on providing dedicated attention, 1:1 mentorship, workshops and access to Mondel?z International’s leadership, best-in-class expertise, resources and networks. The curriculum will be a combination of virtual sessions and three in-person activities (where and when travel is permitted). Up to 10 startups will be chosen to participate in the program and receive a $20,000 grant.
This is deliberately designed to be a collaborative effort between entrepreneurs and the Mondel?z International ecosystem to drive mutual growth. SnackFutures will provide participating startups with tools, technologies and access to networks and industry expertise, while also gaining insights, capabilities, and prospective investment opportunities.
“SnackFutures is in a unique position of both creating our own brands and investing in start-ups, so we can offer participants empathy and understanding from our own experiences along with the rigor, discipline and insights of global snacking leader,” said Brigette Wolf, global head of SnackFutures, Mondel?z International, in a statement. “It’s even more important for programs like CoLab now as these small brands try to recover and grow out of the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.”
The call for submissions is now open with the program set to begin in June 2021. To apply, startups must be based in the U.S., generating at least $500,000 in revenue, have high growth potential, align with the Mondel?z International innovation priorities, and can benefit from working with Mondel?z International and the company’s partners.
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Image: Mondel?z International