Revealed: The Expo East 2019 Pitch Slam judges

Want to snag more than $40,000 in New Hope Network services, including a free booth at Natural Products Expo East 2020? You could, if you’re crowned Expo East 2019 Pitch Slam winner. But, the application closes THIS Friday, Aug. 2, at 5 p.m. MDT, so apply today!

Not familiar with Pitch Slam? Held every year at Natural Products Expo East and Expo West, this special competition provides the opportunity to elevate mission-driven and innovative companies, connecting brands with the exposure and resources needed to take it to the next level.

Missed the 411 on the slection process? Read all about it here.

Once the 10 semifinalists are ready to hit the stage in Baltimore on Sept. 11, 2019, each brand will have three minutes to give its best pitch to these five Pitch Slam Expert Panel members, plus a large audience of retailers, investors, peers and more. The Expert Panel judges pitches based on innovation, uniqueness, value proposition of product, product branding, packaging, presentation and market viability. The five standout brands advance to the Pitch Slam Finals the following night.

So who’s who on the Pitch Slam Expert Panel? Check them out below.

Kelly Landrieu: Global Coordinator - Local Brands, Whole Foods Market

"I’m thrilled to join the judging panel for the Expo East Pitch Slam competition! Emerging brands and the innovations they bring to the table drive the industry forward, expand opportunity and excite consumers. Hearing directly from the entrepreneurs behind these brands gives us an incredible opportunity to learn about their brand stories and journeys to market in a deeper way."

Lauren Jupiter: Managing Partner, Accel Foods

"With the incredible influx of talent and innovation in the packaged food and beverage space, Pitch Slam provides a wonderful opportunity to connect with entrepreneurs to better understand their unique products and go-to-market strategies. I look forward to participating as a judge and helping to evaluate how these talented founders plan to scale their businesses."

Esther Park: CEO,

Cienega Capital

"I’m looking forward to seeing and hearing about exciting businesses pushing the envelope to create a regenerative food system!"

Chelsea Williams: Founder, That's Chelsea

"I'm excited to participate in this groundbreaking opportunity as the first influencer to serve as a judge on the Pitch Slam Expert Panel. As someone who works directly with both brands and consumers, I hope to bring a fresh perspective that will bridge the gap between the two groups."

Blake Mitchell: Principal, Interact Boulder

"I'm excited to help usher in the next group of entrepreneurs that are shaping the natural foods industry."

Want to experience the 10 standout brands' pitches in real time? Join us at the Pitch Slam Semi-Finals at Natural Products Expo East.

What: Pitch Slam Semi-Finals
When: 5-6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2019
Where: Hilton, Key Ballroom