BATTLE CREEK, MI — Brandjectory, an online platform to connect early-stage CPG brands with accredited investors, hosted a virtual Pitch Slam on September 14, garnering more than 100 attendees and 55 applicants.
The Grand Prize Winner was Olyra, an organic breakfast biscuit and snack brand founded by Yannis Varellas. Olyra was awarded $20,000 in cash plus $42,000 in free and discounted services from more than 25 sponsors and premier CPG service providers.
Pitch Slam applicants were reviewed by a committee of 14 CPG investors. Each finalist was mentored by a different CPG investor, and the practice session was judged and supported by two more.
Final judging was conducted by five other CPG investors who used 10 objective criteria established by Brandjectory. That criteria served as deliberation basis for identifying the most investable brand.
Brandjectory is a strategic partner with Emerge CPG, which was a contributor to the prize package.
“I was so impressed by the caliber of the pitches, as well as the engagement across the entire CPG community,” said Julie Pryor, CEO of Emerge CPG.
Several judges also commented that Brandjectory’s inaugural competition drew some of the strongest finalists they had seen in a pitch slam.
“The pitch slam was so well organized, it was like watching a Broadway show,” said David Abrahams, CEO of iLevel Brands.
The event was co-hosted by Jessi Freitag, podcast host and independent CPG operations consultant, along with Wade Yenny, director of grocery, dairy and frozen for The Fresh Market.
“I have learned a lot through the process,” Varellas said. “Brandjectory — along with the organizers, mentors, judges and participants — supports brands that promote healthy lifestyle and connects them with people who share the same values. I don’t have words to express my gratitude,”
The prize package, which included a combination of cash and services from notable CPG organizations, was designed to accelerate growth for innovative brands.
In addition to Olyra’s Grand Prize, Cusa Tea and Coffee, founded by Jim Lamancusa, was awarded the Fan Favorite, chosen by the event’s 125 virtual attendees.
In total, Brandjectory awarded both winning brands $100,000 in cash and services.
“It is an honor to award such substantial prizes to Yannis and Jim,” said Michael Movitz, Brandjectory co-founder. “It’s a wonderful reflection of the commitment our sponsor partners have to helping the CPG emerging brand sector.”
For more information on the event, sponsors and investors, visit Brandjectory’s Pitch Slam landing page.
