Branchfood

Chocolate lovers, listen up! Your favorite treat is facing big challenges—from climate change to rising prices. But don't worry, the industry is also working on game-changing innovations! In our recent Insight Post, US and Swiss industry experts shared how cultivated chocolate, advanced R&D, and ethical sourcing are shaping the future. Want to know what’s next for chocolate? Read the full article: https://lnkd.in/dvwfEczk

Leading research group Cadent estimates that #CPG brands can save 5-20% by using a deductions management tool (1). ⁠ ⁠ We spoke with Kyle Barnholt, founder of deductions management platform TrewUp, about what #entrepreneurs need to know about optimizing #tradespending. Check out our conversation to find answers to all of your questions and practical techniques that will enhance your financial acumen and allow for maximized profits in the year ahead: https://lnkd.in/eW9MShBc ⁠ (1). https://lnkd.in/dwmkjheh

Over the past 10 years, we’ve worked with more than 950 businesses across the consumer product and agri-foodtech landscape—supporting not only founders, but also corporate leaders, researchers, educators, investors, and innovators who are shaping the future of food. Join us at Celebrate + Connect, a special event honoring the people and partnerships that have defined our first decade—and those who will lead the next. Meet some of the incredible individuals and organizations in our community, expand your network, and enjoy an evening of meaningful conversation, good food, and celebration! 📅 Date: Wednesday, April 30, 2025 📍 Location: Sam Adams Downtown Boston Taproom ⏰ Time: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM 🎟 RSVP: https://lnkd.in/eaCRqhUb Lauren Abda, Tufts Food & Nutrition Innovation Institute, RIHub, Naturally New England, Venture Café Cambridge, Social Enterprise Greenhouse, Startup Boston, Entrepreneurship for All (EforAll), Boston Public Market Association, CommonWealth Kitchen, The Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University, FoodHack Boston, LabCentral 

Our monthly Community Table is where food industry minds—from startups to scientists, corporates to curious newcomers—come together to connect, share insights, and help each other grow. Last month, we welcomed two emerging chocolatiers who shared what they’re building and where they need support. Our group offered wisdom, feedback, and encouragement and got to taste some delicious samples too. Every session is different, but one thing remains constant: the spirit of collaboration. Whether you’re launching something new, looking for inspiration, or simply want to stay plugged into the food world, there’s a seat for you at the table. Come join us in May and be part of the conversation. We are excited to be partnering with M&T Bank and hosting the conversation at their HQ in Boston. More info here: https://lnkd.in/d74TKPiC

Tax season is here—are your trade spend accruals accurate? In our recent webinar, Kyle Barnholt of TrewUp shares must-know insights for #CPGbrands closing the books. Don’t leave money on the table - watch now: https://lnkd.in/eW9MShBc

Mischa Downing is the founder of Entremello, where she makes vegan caramel sauce. Her journey underscores the value of our community's support in accelerating entrepreneurs’ goals. ⁠ ⁠ Find out more about Entremello at entremello.com! If you have a growing business or an idea for one, we encourage you to explore what becoming a member at Branchfood could mean for you. Visit us at branchfood.com/startups for further information.

For the past decade, Branchfood has been at the heart of food industry innovation—supporting entrepreneurs, fostering connections, and driving growth. This year, we’re marking 10 incredible years of impact with an evening dedicated to the people who have made it all possible: the founders, industry leaders, investors, and changemakers who have shaped our community. Join us on Wednesday, April 30th, from 5:00 - 8:00 PM for a special edition of our annual networking event—one that honors the past while building the future. In partnership with Sam Adams Brewing the American Dream, we’re bringing together the brightest minds in food for a night of conversations, connections, and celebration. RSVP now to secure your spot, and don’t forget to spread the word! See you there! https://lnkd.in/eaCRqhUb Lauren Abda Tufts Food & Nutrition Innovation Institute, RIHub, Naturally New England, Tom Fitzgerald, Venture Café Cambridge, Social Enterprise Greenhouse, Startup Boston, Entrepreneurship for All (EforAll), Boston Public Market Association, CommonWealth Kitchen, Janelle Nanos, The Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University, FoodHack Boston, Sezin Yigit, PhD, LabCentral

Our latest in-person Community Table was a fantastic gathering of food industry professionals, from startup founders and scientists to corporate leaders and curious newcomers. We explored big ideas shaping the future of food—like food-as-medicine programs, seaweed-based packaging, and the challenges of becoming a public benefit corporation. One key takeaway? The intersection of sustainability, regulation, and business strategy is more important than ever. We discussed the hurdles of scaling compostable packaging, the reality of producer responsibility laws, and how companies can balance mission and profitability. If you’re in the food industry—or just food-curious—you won’t want to miss next month’s session. Mark your calendar for Thursday April 3rd, 12 PM to 1PM, to be part of the conversation! https://lnkd.in/egesYtWz Venture Café Cambridge, Alexander Cheung, CIC (Cambridge Innovation Center)

You’re invited to SEG's 3rd Annual Impact Business Showcase – the ultimate celebration of innovation, entrepreneurship, and community impact! 🎉 This exclusive event highlights the achievements of recent SEG program participants and honors the small business leaders driving change in Rhode Island. Experience live pitches from 6 visionary Impact Accelerator entrepreneurs competing for a $10K prize, and explore 30+ demo booths featuring changemaker businesses and nonprofits. Register here: https://lnkd.in/eEUCzAZF

Hope Parish is the founder of Lore Mighty Mushrooms, where she makes chocolate supplements that leverage the power of functional mushrooms. Her journey underscores the value of our community's support in accelerating entrepreneurs’ goals. ⁠ ⁠ Find out more about Lore at eatlore.com! If you have a growing business or an idea for one, we encourage you to explore what becoming a member at Branchfood could mean for you. Visit us at branchfood.com/startups for further information⁠.