Blueberry Council Launches First Startup Accelerator To Fuel Blueberry Product Innovation

The U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC) has announced the launch of the Blueberry Boost Accelerator, a new nine-week program aimed at helping early-stage companies bring innovative blueberry-based consumer products to market.

The initiative, created in partnership with independent innovation advisory firm VentureFuel, will connect selected startups with industry mentors and commercialization support, culminating in a pitch showcase at The Blueberry Convention this October in Seattle.

Applications are now open and will be reviewed on a rolling basis through July 11. Participating companies must be early-stage and revenue-generating with a safe, USDA-reviewed prototype that features blueberries as a key ingredient. In addition to mentorship and media exposure, the program offers professional brand development tools and access to key industry stakeholders, including buyers and investors. Finalists will compete for a $20,000 grand prize, with a $10,000 award for the runner-up.

“USHBC’s vision is to make blueberries the world’s favorite fruit by fueling demand through innovation, partnerships and research,” said Kasey Cronquist, president of USHBC. “Blueberries are packed with possibilities — from health and nutrition to snacking, culinary creativity, functional ingredients and beyond. This program is about uncovering the next generation of ideas that will help blueberries earn a larger role in consumers’ everyday lives.”

The accelerator is seeking startups across a wide range of product categories, including snacks, beverages, personal care, frozen goods, sauces, pet products, and wellness items. A virtual information session for interested applicants is scheduled for June 25.

Fred Schonenberg, founder and CEO of VentureFuel, highlighted the broader opportunity for category expansion.

“Blueberries are beloved by consumers for their taste and health benefits, yet there is so much untapped potential when it comes to new formats, uses, and applications,” said Fred Schonenberg, founder and CEO of VentureFuel. “Our accelerator connects the best startups working with blueberries with industry leaders and commercial opportunities to fast-track their innovations and unlock new growth opportunities for the category.”