Retail Performance
2025 Accelerator FAQs
What is the Retail Performance Accelerator?
The Retail Performance accelerator is a 10 week intensive program designed to help founders who are in the first year of navigating retail shelves. We provide the education, mentorship and community support to help your product stand out on the shelf so that you can get off the shelf into consumer’s carts.
Who should apply?
This program is aimed towards founders who have a finished product and are either in their first year of retail placement or will be within 90 days. It is designed to maximize that critical first year with targeted strategies for merchandising, promotions and buyer relationships.
How long is the program and what is the time commitment?
Participants should expect to commit 5-7 hours per week including:
One pre-recorded lecture and class prep time
One virtual cohort session
One weekly coaching session (one on one)
Do I need to attend every session?
Participants are required to attend at least 80% of the sessions. We understand founders are busy, but consistent participation ensures you will get the full benefit of the program and fosters community.
Who is eligible to apply?
To participate, you must:
Have a finished CPG product ready for retail sale
Be in the first year of your first retail contract or within 90 days of securing one
Have fewer than 50 employees
Be able to attend at least 80% of the sessions
Be willing to sign a confidentiality agreement (to protect the cohort and their ability to share openly)
How much does it cost?
$1,500. Some scholarships available.
What topics will be covered?
Inventory management and preventing out-of-stocks
Retail shelf strategy and merchandising
Promotional planning and marketing
In store demo strategies
Financial analysis and planning
Building buyer relationships
Will I receive individual attention for my specific product and challenges?
Yes. Each participant will be paired with a mentor and receive a weekly 30 minute check in session with the program facilitator.
Will I have access to retail buyers through this program?
Yes. Buyers from regional retail chains will be available during select sessions.
What results can I expect from participating?
Our goal is that by the end of the 10 weeks, you understand what you need to know to be successful on retail shelves and have an actionable plan to increase your velocity.