The U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC), in partnership with VentureFuel, announced the Blueberry Boost Accelerator, a new program to discover and support emerging startups that are redefining the future of blueberries. Applications are now open and will be reviewed on a rolling basis through July 11, 2025, at 11:59 pm PT.

The nine-week hybrid accelerator program will connect early-stage, revenue-generating companies of products using blueberries as a prominent ingredient with top blueberry, food and consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry leaders to fast-track growth through expert mentorship, tailored commercialization support and strategic guidance. 

Participants will receive professional brand assets like video commercials and sales materials; gain media exposure; and connect with buyers, investors and innovation leaders. Startups will refine their pitch with 1:1 support and showcase their product at The Blueberry Convention, Oct. 8-10 in Seattle, where the grand prize winner will receive $20,000 and the runner-up will win $10,000. 

To be eligible, companies must have a safe, 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 a wide range of categories, including but not limited to:

●     Snacks
●     Frozen
●     Beverages (including alcoholic options)
●     Confectionery
●     Personal care items (e.g., skincare, cosmetics)
●     Wellness/performance
●     Ready-to-eat meals
●     Sauces and dressings
●     Pet products

Interested entrepreneurs are invited to RSVP for a virtual information session on June 25 at 12 p.m. ET to learn more about the program, areas of interest and the application process.

"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."

The Blueberry Boost Accelerator underscores USHBC’s commitment to leadership in the food system through innovation. By investing in new ideas, technology and entrepreneurs, USHBC continues to unite stakeholders to strengthen the industry’s global competitiveness.

For more information or to apply, visit blueberryboostaccelerator.com. For more resources on using blueberries as an ingredient or to find supplier, visit foodprofessionals.blueberry.org.