A year ago, VentureFuel Founder & CEO Fred Schonenberg sat down with Kasey Cronquist, President of the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council and the North American Blueberry Council, to discuss the launch of the Blueberry Boost Accelerator — a first-of-its-kind program created in partnership with VentureFuel to spark innovation across the blueberry industry.

We’re re-releasing this conversation to celebrate the return of the Blueberry Boost Accelerator for Year 2 following a successful inaugural cohort. Applications are now open for startups developing innovative blueberry-based products and solutions, with the program continuing to provide founders access to mentorship, commercialization support, industry leaders, and potential investment opportunities.

In this episode, Kasey shares why the blueberry industry saw an opportunity to think beyond traditional consumer marketing to unlock growth through startups, emerging technologies, and product innovation. From functional foods and better-for-you snacks to ingredient innovation and new consumer experiences, he explains how the industry is creating more occasions, formats, and ways for consumers to engage with blueberries.

Entrepreneurs interested in learning more can join the virtual information session on Thursday, May 14. Visit www.blueberryboostaccelerator.com to learn more.