CAROL STREAM, ILL. — The Fresh Factory B.C. Ltd., a vertically integrated manufacturer of fresh, plant-based food and beverage products, is launching an accelerator program to support emerging brands. Fresh Start will provide guidance and resources to assist with formulation, production, financing and more.

The initiative is backed by strategic advisers, including Valor Siren Ventures, Barrel Ventures, Listen Ventures, GreatPoint Ventures, RCV Frontline and SloFIG.

“Fresh Start’s robust 12-week program answers the demand for an all-inclusive approach to launching and scaling businesses in the fresh, clean label and plant-based food and beverage space,” said Bill Besenhofer, chief executive officer and co-founder of The Fresh Factory. “Our innovative production capabilities and operational expertise are backed by top-tier strategic advisers who are aligned with our mission to accelerate sustainable food. We are passionate about bringing healthy and delicious ideas to life and are excited to propel the brands of tomorrow.”

Brands The Fresh Factory has helped launch include Element Pressed, a line of cold-pressed juices developed for select Whole Foods Market stores, and Field + Farmer, which offers dips, dressings, cold-pressed juice and chilled snack bars sold in the produce or deli departments at grocery stores.

For brands with less than $1 million in trailing 12-month sales, The Fresh Factory said it will offer $125,000 in services and cash in exchange for a 7% equity stake with the investment taking the form of a simple agreement for future equity. For brands with more than $1 million in trailing 12-month sales, the company invests $125,000 to $250,000 in services in exchange for a negotiated equity position with investments taking the form of a convertible note. Additionally, The Fresh Factory said it often invests directly into companies as part of a funding round.