Venturepark Labs and Sobeys renew partnership to empower Canadian CPG entrepreneurs

Venturepark Labs has announced the renewal of its partnership with Sobeys.

The partnership aims to propel Canadian consumer-packaged goods entrepreneurs from ideation to commercialization through various nationwide CPG support initiatives. Among its offerings are a range of programs, including Venturepark’s Concept to Market Sprint program, its 20,000-square-foot food incubator and commercial kitchen and the accelerator program.

“Canada is a resource-rich nation and a breeding ground for entrepreneurship and innovation. We are proud to renew our partnership with Sobeys, a testament to our shared commitment to championing Canadian entrepreneurs and the commercialization of their products,” said Arlene Dickinson, CEO of Venturepark Labs. “Through this partnership, we help pave the way for a future where the success of our homegrown brands translates into the success of our country.”

A recent report by MNP LLP found that entrepreneurs supported by Arlene Dickinson’s venture capital fund, District Ventures Capital and Venturepark Labs, have generated $1.6 billion.

Over the past four years, entrepreneurs in Venturepark’s programming have received support from Empire, including coaching from local development specialists and opportunities to bring their products to the grocer’s store shelves within a region or across Canada.

“Teaming up with a non-profit organization that has a strong commitment to supporting CPG startups like Venturepark Labs has been a positive experience,” said Rob Allsop, vice president of national sourcing and supplier engagement at Sobeys. “With the invaluable support from Venturepark Labs, many of these brands gain crucial insights before hitting retail shelves. This partnership is poised to continually fuel entrepreneurial growth and success.”