Leading bakery supplier King Arthur Baking Company, along with Project Potluck, a nonprofit empowering People of Color (POC) to build successful careers in the consumer-packaged goods and food and beverage industries, has announced Baking Pitchfest 2024.

Baking Pitchfest is an accelerator program dedicated to championing innovative baking brands and providing equitable opportunities for POC entrepreneurs in the baking industry. The goal of this program is to foster a vibrant community of passionate POC bakers and entrepreneurs who are brought together through this shared experience. 

The winning businesses will receive financial support, brand exposure and mentorship to help accelerate their businesses. There are two distinct editions – one focused on bakeries and the other on baking products – to ensure that a wide range of creative minds in the baking world have an opportunity to shine. Finalists will come together in May to share their stories, pitch their ideas and learn from members of the King Arthur Baking and Project Potluck teams. 

“We look forward to welcoming applicants from across the baking world and witnessing the innovative products and business concepts that will shape the future of baking,” says Molly Lawrence, corporate social responsibility manager at King Arthur. “Pitchfest 2024 is a testament to King Arthur Baking's dedication to fostering a more inclusive baking community and empowering creative POC leaders in the industry.”

“We believe in the transformative power of diverse voices in shaping the future of the baking industry, says Kathleen Casanova, executive director of Project Potluck. “Baking Pitchfest 2024 is more than a competition; it's a platform for empowering People of Color to break barriers and redefine the narrative in baking. Through mentorship, competition, and community, we're fostering a space where innovation knows no bounds.” 

Now through February 10, bakers and entrepreneurs are invited to submit their applications to participate in the inaugural Baking Pitchfest. To be eligible, individuals and businesses must be POC-led and members of Project Potluck. People of Color can become a Project Member here. The Product edition is open to applicants nationwide, while the Bakery edition is open to bakeries located in Washington state and the Northeast (Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont).