Industry Accelerator | Kroger Feeding Growth Opportunities for WBEs

In a showcase of entrepreneurial talent and innovative products, the Kroger Industry Accelerator Program concluded the program with a dynamic pitch competition of all WBEs selected for the program. Two standout winners — Aunt Ethel’s Pot Pies and Plucky Pickle Dip were awarded with prizes. The event, held in collaboration with WBENC, highlighted the commitment of Kroger, one of the nation’s largest grocery chains, to supplier diversity and empowerment of Women Owned businesses.

Meet the 2023 Winners!

$10,000 Pitch Winner: Sasha Millstein of Aunt Ethel’s Pot Pies

Sasha Millstein of Aunt Ethel’s Pot Pies emerged as the $10,000 pitch winner, showcasing her delectable pot pies that won over both judges and audiences alike. This victory recognizes her culinary expertise and exemplifies the potential for small businesses to thrive in the competitive retail landscape.

Kroger Pilot Contract Winner: Sara Doherty’s Plucky Pickle Dip

Sara Doherty’s Plucky Pickle Dip secured the Kroger Pilot Contract, a testament to the dip’s exceptional taste and potential to resonate with a broader consumer base. This win grants Plucky Pickle Dip a unique opportunity to reach a wider audience through Kroger’s extensive network of stores.

Read more about the 2023 Industry Accelerator here. 

Through this dynamic new Industry Accelerator, brought to you by Kroger, WBE apoplicants accepted into the cohort will participate in a dedicated accelerator program with 3 additional education sessions focused on:

• Pitching your business
• Presenting to a category manager
• Ins and outs of marketing, hearing from Kroger’s in-house marketing group

The accelerator will culminate with a LIVE virtual pitch competition on October 5, 2023, from 12:00-2:00 PM EST featuring all cohort participants with one WBE receiving $10,000 in funding.

Additionally, accelerator pitch participants will have their company capabilities reviewed by Kroger supplier diversity professionals and buyers for consideration to pilot a contract with Kroger (This opportunity is based upon specific criteria, vendor capabilities, and Kroger sourcing needs, and does not guarantee a contract will be awarded).