CONSUMER GOODS ACCELERATOR
Application Deadline: April 26 // Program: June 3 – August 5
We know the passion that goes into making a product. We know the sweat it takes to get it just right. We know the hustle it takes to move it. We know because we’ve done it. That’s why we created a program to help you get through the grind.
OVERVIEW
CO.LAB’s Consumer Goods Accelerator is a 10-week program for early-stage companies working in the consumer goods sector. Founders will work closely with our region’s robust network of industry mentors and corporate partners to find paths to success.
Just so you know—this isn’t your traditional classroom accelerator. We work closely with founders to intensely problem solve and plan for growth, whether we’re digging deep into financial strategy or getting our hands dirty in your production facility. See the areas we tackle head-on.
QUALIFICATIONS
We’re looking for early-stage companies who have—at the minimum—tested their product on the market and demonstrate a complete proof of concept. Ideal companies may be making products that include, but not limited to, the following:
Pre-packaged beverage products, such as spirits, beer, and kombucha
Pre-packaged food products
Health and lifestyle products
Established and scalable restaurant, brewery and distillery concepts
Agricultural products, such as creameries
“We had access to experts in the different areas of business who mentored us one-on-one and equipped us with a roadmap to take our business to the next level. It was definitely worth taking the time off from working IN my business to work more closely ON the business and I would encourage every entrepreneur to do the same.”
— Norma Maloney, Founder of LoAdebar
Benefits
Home of a thriving food and beverage production industry and some of the nation’s leading experts in large-scale production and distribution
Booming outdoor recreation hotspot — heralded as Outside Magazine’s “Best Town Ever” two years in a row — and major leader in Tennessee’s $11 billion outdoor industry
Access to Chattanooga’s growing retail industry that earned a combined $6.8 billion in sales in 2016 alone
Deep pool of manufacturing talent stemming from Chattanooga’s many decades of leadership as one of the strongest advanced manufacturing hubs in the Southeast
Fast access to major markets like Nashville, Atlanta and Birmingham — all located within a short two-hour drive
Access to highly-developed logistics infrastructure, including three major interstate highways, two major rail lines, and a number of large-scale shippers, barge operators and warehouses
Exposure and opportunity to present to investment groups, funds, and strategic partners
Interested in the accelerator but not sure if you are a good fit? Fill out the form below and let’s talk:
TEAM + Mentors
