Sheboygan County launches accelerator for packaged retail startups

Sheboygan County officials have launched a new startup accelerator for local entrepreneurs, seeking to drive business growth in the area of packaged retail goods.

The Sheboygan County Economic Development Corporation on Friday launched the Consumer Packaged Goods Blueprint Program alongside local entrepreneurship resource company Startups Built Simply. The inaugural cohort includes companies developing food and beverage products, skincare brands, apparel and more.

Ray York, a business counselor for the SCEDC, says the program aims to give startup founders “the tools and strategic foundation” needed to build sustainable companies.

“This partnership demonstrates how focused mentorship, practical education, and access to resources can turn promising ideas into structured businesses that grow alongside our community,” York said in a statement.

The six-week program includes training sessions on business metrics, brand messaging, pricing strategies and other topics, in addition to personalized coaching and other resources.

Founders with “strong market potential” will get grants through SCEDC with funding from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corp., meant to support initial product creation and accelerate growth.

Lee Veldkamp, founder of Startups Built Simply, says the program will be “demystifying” the business development process to ensure good ideas get a fair chance.

“Many creative founders have exceptional products but lack the capital and a clear roadmap needed to scale,” Veldkamp said.

Participating entrepreneurs include:

*Cheri Meyer, of Meyer Cocktail Co., offering ready-to-drink bottled craft cocktails.

*Evan Philibeck of Buck in a Hat, selling hunting hats tailored to “the outdoor subculture.”

*Drew Mueske of Crunch Collab, which makes health-focused granola bars.

*Mary Motiska of Wonderfully Made, offering skincare products for younger customers.

*James Kaczmarowski of Glitch Gin, which makes gin with a “fruit-first” formula.