Program Promotes Innovation with Mentorship and Industry Partnerships
Midwest Dairy, along with VentureFuel, announces the launch of the first Midwest Dairy Accelerator—an eight-week virtual program designed to boost dairy-focused food and beverage startups. The initiative aims to support innovation and help entrepreneurs bring dairy-based products to market.
Building on earlier partnerships with The Hatchery and No More Empty Pots, this accelerator goes beyond simple pitch events. It offers selected businesses mentorship, hands-on workshops, and access to industry leaders. The program helps entrepreneurs develop products that feature dairy ingredients and meet modern consumer needs.
Following a competitive application process, four startups from across the Midwest were chosen for this year’s cohort:
- Lorenzo’s Frozen Pudding (Chicago, IL): A unique frozen banana pudding and gourmet flavors.
- Rosebud Ice Cream (Glen Ellyn, IL): Premium soft serve ice cream in easy-to-eat pouches.
- Sugar Witch (St. Louis, MO): Handcrafted ice cream sandwiches with fresh, small-batch flavors.
Throughout the program, participants will learn about consumer insights, ingredients, innovation, production, distribution, marketing, and pitching their businesses. They will also benefit from guidance by experts from top food brands, co-ops, and universities.
The accelerator wraps up with a live pitch event on September 3, 2025, at The Hatchery in Chicago. Participants will present their business ideas to industry judges for a chance to win $20,000 for first place and $10,000 for second place.
This program shows Midwest Dairy’s commitment to supporting innovation in the U.S. dairy industry. The goal is to help early-stage companies meet growing consumer demand for dairy products that offer flavor, function, and convenience.