In this series, New Hope Network covers the ins and outs of accelerators and incubators across the United States that provide mentorship, funds and resources to help grow natural businesses. Here, a spokesperson from Mondelez International's SnackFutures provides insight into the company's new program for startups, CoLab.

What: CoLab powered by SnackFutures, a new startup program that provides a $20,000 grant as well as mentorship and engagement from the SnackFutures ecosystem.
When: The 12-week program kicks off the week of June 7, 2021, with both in-real-life and virtual activities.

When are CoLab applications open, and when is the application deadline? 

Applications for the 2021 class are now closed.

What types of companies does CoLab assist? 

Early stage, well-being snack brands.

What’s your mission in doing this work? 

The SnackFutures mission is to create a snacking world that is good for people, kind to the planet and deliciously fun. To do that, SnackFutures is creating its own brands and also investing in startups that align with the mission, to support their growth and find potential investment opportunities.

What top attributes is CoLab looking for in applicants? 

CoLab is looking for early stage well-being snack brands, which is defined as good for people and the planet, with at least $500,000 in revenue and proof of concept in the marketplace.

What is one game-changing piece of advice you have for entrepreneurs? 

Entrepreneurs are passionate—as they should be. It’s why they do what they do. But, to grow, you can’t let passion be a blind spot for progress. Discipline, focus and a willingness to evolve to meet consumers where they are is what will drive success.