Nana Joes Granola LEAPs with Whole Foods Market

Whole Foods Market announced participants in its newest cohorts today for two tracks of the Local and Emerging Accelerator Program (LEAP): Early Growth and On the Verge.

As part of the 2023 programming, Whole Foods Market introduced LEAP: On the Verge to expand the opportunity to current local and emerging Whole Foods Market suppliers. These suppliers are currently sold in select stores, already demonstrate strong growth potential, and are poised for success. On the Verge brands are also considered innovative in trends, flavors, community engagement or sustainability and demonstrate mission and values which align with Whole Foods Market’s own core values.

On the Verge participants are selected from a group of suppliers that were nominated by Whole Foods Market Merchants and Foragers. Suppliers selected for the 2023 On the Verge initiative include: Nana Joes Granola (that's us!), fitppl, Better Chew, Little Sesame, Fila Manila, Misha's Kind Foods, 12 Tides, The Pizza Cupcake, Nguyen Coffee Supply, and Bright Endeavors.

“We are thrilled to welcome ten exceptional local producers from all over the country into our second LEAP: Early Growth cohort,” said Alyssa Vescio, Senior Vice President of Merchandising for Whole Foods Market. “On top of that, we’ve expanded LEAP to support our existing supplier community through the On the Verge track, which will help brands explore the next stage of their growth potential, providing mentorship from both Whole Foods Market team members, as well as industry peers and experts. LEAP has been one of the most rewarding ways to support the local and emerging brands that bring incredible products and innovation not only to Whole Foods Market stores, but to our broader communities. These are truly the brands to watch!”

[Original Article posted on BUSINESS WIRE, August 16, 2023 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time, Austin, TX]