Even though we can’t dine in at Sacramento’s fabulous restaurants right now, we still remain the self-proclaimed Farm-to-Fork Capital of America. The primary reason we can blow our own horn is that so many food items are grown right here. And because of that, we also have a growing cluster of ag and food tech companies as well as resources to accelerate them.
One such resource is AgStart, a non-profit incubator located in Woodland that accelerates the growth of innovative ag and food tech companies. AgStart offers mentorship and connections, providing access to resources that new companies need to thrive. If you have an ag or food tech startup, this Tuesday you can sign up for a free 1 hour consultation with an AgStart mentor. Details/sign up here.
In addition to local support, there are some larger scale program happening. Rabbobank is holding its annual Foodbytes! program virtually this year, making it possible for more founders to participate (45 companies vs the historic 15). The program starts in October and ends in December with a Pitch event. Applications are due by August 10. Learn more and/or apply here.
Founder Institute is launching its first ever Global Food Program to be held September through December in Helsinki. Everything will be done virtually and they are accommodating every time zone so world wide participation is expected. Applications are due by August 30. Learn more and/or apply here.
If you’re not into the tech side of the food and ag industry but are looking to start a food business, I have good news for you too! The Alchemist Microenterprise Academy (AMA) is accepting applications through August 9 for the Fall Cohort of its 12-week Food Business Training program. Participants will learn the fundamentals of starting a food business in the program. Learn more and/or apply here.
If you’d like to learn more about AMA from past participants, this week’s 1 Million Cups features two founders who are alumni of the program. They’ll present their businesses and then respond to audience questions and feedback. It’s free to attend this Wednesday morning at 8:45 AM on Zoom. RSVP here.
There’s a lot more going on in the Sacramento Startup Community–check out the details in this week’s Startup Digest. If you want to submit items for consideration, use this link. And for even more startup information, happenings and resources, visit the StartupSac Website.
Accelerators Accepting Applications
There is now a section in the weekly Startup Digest for accelerators currently accepting applications. Because so much is now virtual, these programs are now more available to people who can’t pick up and move for three months or who have child care issues, etc. And some of them have waived or reduced fees. Check them out in this week’s Startup Digest!
Missing connecting with other founders? Request to join the StartupSac Community Facebook Group, a place where startup founders and those who support the growth of our startup ecosystem can connect and exchange ideas.