Jam Packd Wins $20,000 Blueberry Accelerator Prize

Jam Packd has won the second annual Blueberry Boost Accelerator, receiving $20,000 in non-dilutive funding after a pitch competition at the 2026 Blueberry Convention in Monterey, California. The functional fruit spread also won the attendee fan vote. Founded by Brian and Michelle Platt, the business is preparing to expand from direct-to-consumer sales into national retail. Runner-up Blue Rascal Distillery received $10,000.

Funding for Retail Expansion

Jam Packd makes a blueberry spread with collagen protein, prebiotic fiber, superfoods and no added sugar. The company says each jar of its blueberry product starts with nearly two jars’ worth of blueberries, while each serving contains 8g of collagen protein, 6–7g of prebiotic fiber, and 21 plant-derived vitamins and minerals.

The prize funding is intended to support the company’s retail expansion and consumer awareness efforts. Blue Rascal Distillery plans to use its award to bring its blueberry-based brandy, liqueurs, and craft spirits to more customers.

Michelle Platt, co-founder at Jam Packd, said:

“The Blueberry Boost Accelerator came at an exciting time for Jam Packd as we make the leap from a direct-to-consumer brand into national retail.”

Brian Platt, co-founder at Jam Packd, said:

“The experts we've met through the program have helped us think more strategically about our business and what comes next. The prize money will help us introduce Jam Packd to more consumers, build brand awareness, and create momentum as we expand into more stores.”

Eight Weeks of Commercial Support

The accelerator was developed by the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council in partnership with innovation advisory firm VentureFuel. The eight-week hybrid program works with early-stage, revenue-generating businesses developing products with blueberries.

Participating companies received mentorship, commercialization guidance, brand assets, sales materials, media exposure, pitch support, and introductions to buyers, investors, and industry leaders. The final pitches were evaluated by Andrew Green of Nanos, Jeff Malensky of Oregon Berry Packing, Kyla Oberman of California Giant Berry Farms, and Kevin McCarthy of Procter & Gamble.

Kelly Perone of Blue Rascal Distillery was the runner-up.

Kevin Hamilton, vice president of global marketing and communications at U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, said:

“Building on the success of our first year, this program continues to showcase the incredible innovation happening with blueberries.”

“In its second year, we're seeing entrepreneurs take even bigger steps, from developing differentiated products and exploring new formats to building brands with real potential for retail growth and scale. It's exciting to see this community of founders, industry leaders and partners come together to help turn bold ideas into commercial opportunities and shape what's next for blueberries.”

A Route to Market

For small consumer product companies, the program offers a route to industry contacts and practical help with product presentation, sales materials, and commercial planning. The finalists also sampled products and met blueberry industry stakeholders at the convention.

Fred Schonenberg, Founder and CEO of VentureFuel, said:

“Jam Packd represents the kind of exciting innovation that moves the blueberry category forward.”

“When founders have the right industry connections, expertise, and resources behind them, great products can become great businesses that create new demand for blueberries.”

Businesses interested in the program can find further details at blueberryboostaccelerator.com.