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    What is InvestCPG?

    InvestCPG is a CPG pitch event showcasing the best emerging food and beverage brands from across the country. The event features two pitch tracks:

    Scale and Market Fit.

    Scale focuses on national brands and is the main event. Market Fit is for regional brands, offering an early, insider look into what is trending in the emerging food and beverage space.

    Scale Pitch

    The Scale Pitch is our main event. It features five CPG brands with a national presence. These companies are already winning in the market, building strong fundamentals, and preparing for the next stage of growth.

     

    Market Fit Pitch

    The Market Fit Pitch gives the audience an early look at what’s coming next in CPG. These are regional brands selling in stores. They are breaking through with early traction and growing demand.

     

    WHO SHOULD APPLY

    InvestCPG is designed to support emerging food and beverage businesses. We offer two pitch tracks: Scale and Market Fit. Each track has its own application and set of criteria. Choose the track that best fits with where your business is today. All applicants receive FREE entry to InvestCPG, regardless of selection. 

    Scale Pitch Criteria

    Apply here for the Scale track if your company meets the following:

    • National presence

    • In at least a few hundred stores

    • Minimum of $1m in annual revenue

    • Strong operations and a clear path to (or current) profitability

    Market Fit Pitch Criteria

    Apply here for the Market Fit track if your company meets the following:

    • Regional presence 

    • Sold in retail stores (can be any channel)

    • Strong operations and a clear path to (or current) profitability

     

    Key Dates

    • Application Opens: January 1st, 2026
    • Application Closes: April 1st, 2026
    • Finalists Notified: April 20th, 2026
    • InvestCPG Live Pitch Event: May 6th, 2026

    Event Schedule

    • 1:00p: Doors Open & Networking
    • 2:00p: Opening Remarks
    • 2:30p: Investment & Founder Panels
    • 3:45p: Market Fit Pitch Contest
    • 4:00p: Scale Pitch Event
    • 5:00p: Happy Hour
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    Photo Oct 18 2025, 6 00 15 PM
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    HOW INVESTCPG WORKS

    You don’t need a perfect pitch deck or a big team. We want thoughtful founders who understand their customers and their numbers.

    • Step One. Apply: Complete the applicable online application by April 1st, 2026.
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    • Step Two. Judging: Our panel of industry experts, founders, and investors will review all applications and select five finalists for the Scale track and three for the Market Fit track.
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    • Step Three. Pitching: Finalists will pitch on stage at InvestCPG on May 7th, 2026 in front of a live audience of founders, buyers, and community members. 

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    Judging Criteria

    Our expert panel of judges will review applications and pitches using three simple questions:

    • Is this a product people actually want? 
    • Is there a path to profitability?
    • Is the founder coachable and has the hustle?

    Judges score each answer on a 1 to 5 scale, keeping these three questions in mind. Finalists are determined by the highest overall scores.

    We are not just looking for the flashiest top-line story. We’re looking for founders who want to build a business to last.

    Judging the contest

    Event Partners & Sponsors

    Thank you so much to our incredible event partners and sponsors!

    If you're interested in sponsoring, please reach out to support@unionkitchen.com. It takes an ecosystem to help build successful food businesses!

    FAQs

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Have Question? We are here to help

    Is there an application fee?

    There is not an application fee. Finalists are provided with complimentary tickets to the event. 

     

    Do I need to be in Washington, DC to apply?

    You do not need to be based in DC, but you must be able to attend the live pitch event on May 7th, 2026 if selected as a finalist.

    Travel and lodging are not included.

    What if I am in between Market Fit and Scale? Which track should I apply for?

    Great question. We recommend applying for the track that best fits where you are right now. If you have not reached $500,000 in annual sales, you are not eligible for the Scale track. This remains true even if you are projected to surpass $500,000. All applicants are compared to others in their specific track. 

    If you are unsure, you can always email us at support@unionkitchen.com.

    How detailed does my financial info need to be?

    We don’t need audited statements, but you should know your numbers: cost of goods, selling price, where you’re selling now, and how you expect to improve your margins as you grow.

    This is especially true for the Scale Track. We will review your Profit & Loss statement.  

    If you need a recommendation for an accountant, please reach out to support@unionkitchen.com. We have fantastic preferred partners that can help. 

    Can I apply with more than one brand?

    Yes. However, each brand must submit a separate application.