NORWICH, VT — King Arthur Baking Co. and Project Potluck, a nonprofit organization that empowers people of color to build careers in CPG and food and beverage industries, partnered to create the inaugural Baking Pitchfest.
Baking Pitchfest is an accelerator program built to champion innovative baking brands and provide equitable opportunities for bakers. The program has two editions to broaden the scope of opportunity, one for bakeries and another for baking products.
“We look forward to welcoming applicants from across the baking world and witnessing the innovative products and business concepts that will shape the future of baking,” said Molly Lawrence, corporate social responsibility manager at King Arthur Baking. “Pitchfest 2024 is a testament to King Arthur Baking’s dedication to fostering a more inclusive baking community and empowering creative POC leaders in the industry.”
Finalists for both editions will meet in May to share their stories and pitch ideas, as well as learn from King Arthur Baking and Project Potluck team members. Winners will receive financial support, brand exposure and mentorship to assist in growing their businesses.
“We believe in the transformative power of diverse voices in shaping the future of the baking industry, said Kathleen Casanova, executive director of Project Potluck. “Baking Pitchfest 2024 is more than a competition; it’s a platform for empowering bakers to break barriers and redefine the narrative in baking. Through mentorship, competition and community, we’re fostering a space where innovation knows no bounds.”
Bakers and entrepreneurs can submit for the program until Feb. 10. Individuals and businesses must be minority-led and members of Project Potluck in order to be eligible for Baking Pitchfest. The bakery edition is open to bakeries located in Washington state as well as Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont. The product edition is open to applicants nationwide.
Visit the King Arthur website for additional information on Baking Pitchfest, eligibility and more.
