CALIFORNIA – The Real California Milk Excelerator pitch competition is accepting applications, due July 2, to give dairy innovators a chance to win a $100,000 grand prize.

According to the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA), dairy products, including milk, were the highest-valued agricultural commodity in California, with a market value of $10.4 billion. 

Dairy Innovators

Building on this success, the theme for this year’s Real California Milk Excelerator competition is health and wellness. 

“We’re seeking anyone building innovative products that leverage the existing benefits of dairy to promote health, wellness and general well-being,” said the competition website.

The site goes on to say this includes better-for-you formulations, digestive health, cognitive function, functional ingredients, hydration, portion control, self-care, and anything in between, made with at least 50% dairy.

Past cohorts include:

• The Empanada Shop (Redondo Beach, Calif.) — Empanadas featuring California flavors make use of melted cheese.
• Amazing Ice Creams (Stockton, Calif.) — Its novelty cookie wafer ice cream bars are covered in chocolate to stay crunchy.
• Noorysha Yo-Gut (Los Angeles, Calif.) — The company makes a specialty probiotic dairy product, which focuses on supporting gut health.
• Shakewell (Garden Grove, Calif.) — Emphasizing high protein with its drinks, the company’s products include only five ingredients, including upcycled whey.

Future of Dairy Expo

Applications are open to any individuals and/or companies creating new products made with at least 50% dairy. Once applications close, judges review all applications and select the top eight to join the program.

The three-month program features access to resources, mentorships, and a group stipend to cover costs associated with producing products and business plans.

At the conclusion of the program, the cohort will sample and pitch their products to a panel of judges at the final pitch event and Future of Dairy Expo. Four winners will receive a $30,000 prize and access to an exclusive retailer and investor event to generate business leads.

The competition will award a $100,000 grand prize to the winner with the highest sales tracked over a year after the live pitch event.

For more information about the Real California Milk Excelerator competition visit https://info.venturefuel.net/rcmexcelerator

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