To mark the beginning of Women’s History Month, PepsiCo’s Stacy’s Snacks brand has launched a new programme to support female entrepreneurs in the food industry.
The inaugural Stacy’s Rise Program will award $200,000 between five female-led businesses. The five finalists will be selected by a judging panel and each will be awarded a $20,000 funding prize, entrepreneurial advice and network building support, while one of these women will win an additional $100,000 grand prize award to “help take their business to the next level”.
Stacy’s has also partnered with NGO United Way to launch a separate microgrant programme which aims to raise $200,000 to support United Way’s ‘Women United’ programme, which supports initiatives in the field of health, education and finance which empower and support women of all ages.
To support this fundraising initiative, Stacy’s has released a third collection of limited-edition Stacy’s Pita Chips bags – designed by all female artists – which depict the six key stages of a female entrepreneur’s journey: inspiration, courage, grit, nourishment, success and community.
Ciara Dilley, vice president of marketing, Stacy’s Snacks. “Women have always embodied the same capabilities, courage and grit as their male counterparts to create and operate successful businesses.
“However, studies have shown that they continue to lack equal access, growth opportunities and financial investment – receiving only about 2% of all venture funding, despite owning 38% of the businesses in the country.
“As a female-founded brand, Stacy’s Pita Chips is determined to reduce that disparity and are proud that the Stacy’s Rise program will continue building upon a legacy focused on giving female entrepreneurs the nourishment they need to accomplish their dreams.”
Lisa Bowman, chief marketing officer, United Way Worldwide added: “Women United is a global, growing force consisting of more than 75,000 female leaders who are galvanized to make real and lasting change in their communities.
“We are proud to work with Stacy’s Pita Chips to support current and future female business owners with funding to sustain their growth and to empower them join the fight for the health, education and economic stability of their communities.”
© FoodBev Media Ltd 2024