Founders Peer Group

If you are a founder in the food & beverage industry, BCFB welcomes you to join your fellow peers in our Founders Peer Group on September 17th, 2024.

The September session will feature a transparent talk with Sarah Goodman, Founder, on Chiwis’ fundraising efforts since ideation and the steps she has taken to raise money for the company. The talk will be followed by an open group discussion among peers to share experiences, challenges and ideas facilitated by our co-chairs Marc Wandler and Miki Talebi.

Key Takeaways: 

The fundraising environment has changed tremendously
Investors are looking at profitability over growth at all costs
Healthy margins are necessary
An experienced team and traction are key, as well as an advisory board

Who Should Attend:

Founders and entrepreneurs involved in the making of food and beverages. This event is exclusive to processors and manufacturers.

If you register for this event but do not meet this criteria we will notify you accordingly and rescind your registration, in the hopes that you join us for an event that is a better fit for you.

Members Only:

This event is private, only active processor members of BC Food & Beverage are permitted to attend.

Hybrid Event:

We’re getting together in-person; however, a Zoom link will be provided in advance for those who are only able to attend virtually.

What to Expect:

A facilitated group discussion to openly share ideas and seek advice from industry peers
New industry insight and valuable knowledge
A community of support and new industry connections

About Sarah Goodman: 

Chiwis is a Squamish based women-owned brand that is passionate about making light and crispy fruit chips that are not only delicious, but are good for the environment. Chiwis was founded in 2021 by nutritionist Sarah Goodman, who launched with two flavours of upcycled kiwi chips into Chiwis first retailer – Whole Foods BC. In just over three years, Chiwis has grown from 0 to over 800 doors across Canada, in the west coast of the USA, and even to Costco’s stores in Japan. Chiwis product line has grown from two SKUs to eight, all focused on the same values – using upcycled fruits, and using as much of the fruit as possible including the skin, core, and rind. Chiwis customers can feel confident that when they purchase a bag of Chiwis fruit chips, they’re getting quality ingredients with no junk added, ever. To date Chiwis has saved over 700,000 lbs of fruit from landfills by using upcycled fruits, and as much of the fruit as possible.

*Please note spaces are limited to 20 participants for this session*

*Light refreshments and snacks will be served*

Founders Peer Group Sponsor: