OpenPrivate programOpen to for-profit businesses

Whole Foods Market Local and Emerging Accelerator Program (LEAP)

Whole Foods MarketNo deadline listed

Summary

Emerging food, beverage and wellness brands not yet sold at Whole Foods can apply once a year. Selected brands get a 12-week curriculum, coaching and consideration for regional shelf placement, plus eligibility for a $25,000 equity investment (not a grant). The 2026 window opened June 2.

About this grant

Whole Foods Market's LEAP gives a select group of emerging food, beverage and wellness brands not yet sold at Whole Foods a 12-week curriculum, coaching from Whole Foods and industry experts, and consideration for shelf placement in their home region. Early Growth participants are also eligible for a $25,000 equity investment (an investment, not a grant) from a donor-advised fund. Applications opened June 2, 2026 for the 2026 cohort.

Who can apply

  • Small businesses
  • For-profit companies

Emerging brands not yet on the shelves of Whole Foods Market

Consumer packaged food, beverage and wellness brands

Topics and uses of funds

Topics

  • Economic development
  • In kind

Money can be used for

  • Training
  • Technical assistance

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