Description
SKU (named after the retail term “Stock Keeping Unit”) is a leading consumer packaged goods (CPG) accelerator headquartered in Austin, Texas that helps emerging CPG brands — including food, beverage, beauty, wellness, pet, apparel, and other product categories — accelerate their growth through a 12-week intensive mentorship-based program. Participating brands work with expert mentors to refine strategy, improve distribution, strengthen operational capabilities, and prepare for funding and scaling opportunities.
Eligibility
• Consumer product companies with in-market products, not solely ideas.
• Preferably early-stage brands with revenue or distribution traction (SKU Austin has historically targeted brands with $100K+ revenues, while SKU DFW has served later stage with higher revenue thresholds).
• Founders aiming for growth, scale, and eventual liquidity events, not only lifestyle businesses.
• Startups across CPG subcategories such as food & beverage, beauty, home/clean products, and pet categories.
Process
Application & Selection: Startups with market-validated products and traction apply to SKU.
Acceptance & Equity Arrangement: If accepted, founders agree to SKU’s equity participation (~5%) in return for program support.
12-Week Accelerator: Brands engage with mentors, attend weekly curriculum modules, and receive strategic guidance from industry experts.
Pitch & Investor/Partner Access: The program culminates in pitch or showcase events, with access to retailers, investors and industry networks.
Alumni Network: Graduates remain part of SKU’s ecosystem, with ongoing community engagement and opportunities for growth support.
What an Applicant can Obtain
✔ 12-week mentor-driven accelerator experience tailored to CPG growth and strategy.
✔ Equity-aligned mentor ecosystem with deep industry experience across retail, distribution, marketing and operations.
✔ Network access to investors, retailers and category experts.
✔ Pitch preparation and exposure to funding and partnership opportunities.
✔ Peer founder community and alumni support for ongoing growth and scaling.
