The Program
A leading startup accelerator
Food Foundry wrapped up its sixth cohort in 2024. We worked with five early-stage startups focused on improving the customer experience in restaurants.
Think the metaverse and virtual spaces, Web3, AR/VR, front-of-house automation, retail tech, and AI, all aimed at the next generation of dining.
$99M+
Total funding raised
200+
Total jobs created
35+
Alumni companies
6
Cohorts over 6 years
Benefits
What founders get
Funding Intros
One-on-one introductions to our network of investors and venture capitalists, plus connections to other funding sources, so founders can raise the money they need to grow.
Resources
National foodservice business resources, specialized programming, and exclusive events, plus one-on-one support from our mentors, entrepreneurs-in-residence, and industry experts.
Community
We host events and workshops that bring together founders, fellow entrepreneurs, experienced mentors, startups, and industry leaders in Chicago, one of the country's busiest startup hubs.
Founder Journey
From application to alumni
Cohort application
Apply
Early-stage founders in food and foodservice apply to join the next Food Foundry cohort.
Kickoff
Onboarding
Accepted founders meet the Food Foundry team, join the cohort, and get access to the Relish Works and Gordon Food Service network.
Core program
Mentorship & Curriculum
One-on-one mentorship, specialized programming, and exclusive events built around how foodservice actually works.
Throughout the cohort
Investor Intros
Direct introductions to Food Foundry's investors, venture capitalists, and other funding sources.
Program finale
Demo Day & Alumni Network
Founders pitch to investors and industry leaders at Demo Day, then join an alumni network of 30+ companies.
Demo Day 2024
If you missed Demo Day, meet Cohort 6
Let Us Nudge presenting at Demo Day 2024
Funding
Funding that fits where founders are
The funding structure has changed as the program has grown. Ask us about the current cohort's terms when you apply.
- Cohort 6 (2024) founders received a $15K equity-free stipend.
- Terms change from cohort to cohort. Cohort 5 (2023) startups received a $75K investment.
- Every cohort gets warm, direct introductions to Food Foundry's investors and VCs.
Program Details
Network, curriculum, and who should apply
Network
- Direct access to Relish Works, Gordon Food Service, and 1871
- An alumni network of 30+ portfolio companies
- Introductions to investors, VCs, and industry operators
Curriculum
- One-on-one mentorship from our mentors and entrepreneurs-in-residence
- Specialized programming built around how foodservice works
- Access to exclusive industry events throughout the cohort
Eligibility
- Early-stage founders with a working product or prototype
- Focused on food, foodservice, or restaurant technology
- Able to be in Chicago for key programming and Demo Day
FAQ
Questions about the program
Ready to bring your idea to the table?
Tell us about your company and we'll send details on the next cohort's application window.