CO.LAB spotlights participants in “Consumer Goods Accelerator”
One of the events during day two of “Startup Week Chattanooga” was a pre-recorded, YouTube-delivered introduction of the participants in the third iteration of the “Consumer Goods Accelerator.”
Offered by CO.LAB and Proof, this year’s programming was designed to help food and beverage enterprises that have been adversely impacted by COVID-19. Yesterday afternoon’s session featured a conversation with Tim Moore, Program and Communications Manager at CO.LAB, and each of the Founders of the start-ups. He is pictured here with Brandon Ellis of Chatter Box Cafe.
The participants, in order of presentation yesterday, were:
- Christine Apthorp of Alms + Fare, a company launched in 2018 that makes sweet things that are delicious yet nutritious. All of their treats are gluten free, dairy free, and naturally sweetened, and Apthorp donates 10 percent of her profits to local non-profits focused on causes that address hunger.
- Thomas Slaugh of Pulsed Foods, a line of bean-based puff snacks currently in development. He announced during yesterday’s broadcast that he has recently pivoted with the goal of building a cool brand around his product that is developed.
- Stephanie Steiman of Cheiman Tea, a homemade blend of black tea, creamy milk and rich spices that create a perfect instant Chai Latte mix.
- Ellis of Chatterbox Cafe that offers southern wood-fired BBQ through both catering and a stand-alone establishment. This summer, the company launched its own sauce and rubs line. Ellis also competed in Monday’s “Will This Float? Black Founders Edition.”
- Briana Garza described one aspect of Chatt Taste Food Tours. Initially focused as its name implied, the company also launched a gift box brand featuring Chattanooga-based brands called Taste of Chattanooga.
- Brad Swancy of Riverview Farms and Milling produces non-GMO corn that is milled into products such as polenta, grits, popcorn, etc. Distributed through Chattanooga, Atlanta, and North Georgia to restaurants and retail.
- Lakissia Ervin launched Mo Lemonade as a way to finance her son’s educational activities. The company offers flavored lemonade with novel names that can be used as a mixer or enjoyed over ice.
- Meg Brasel described Trail Drops, an outdoor nutrition company with a focus on high-calorie, lightweight, healthy meals for backpackers, campers, or anyone who would like it.
- Joe and Jamie Scott of Postre, a producer of caramel sauces and candies using the best organic and local ingredients.
- John Oehmig of Alchemy Spice Company, a Chattanooga-based manufacturer and distributor of spices and seasonings.
