Small Business News
Gopuff Reveals First “Put Me On” Small Business Accelerator Participants
Business owners in the consumer packaged goods market interested in growing their brand may want to draw their attention to Gopuff’s latest news. This week, the delivery platform officially launched its “Put Me On” small business accelerator. Developed in partnership with NBA superstar Chris Paul, the program aims to support entrepreneurs from historically underrepresented groups by partnering them with industry leaders and helping them to grow their businesses. Throughout the six-month program, participants will have access to a number of tools and resources while also increasing awareness for their brands on the Gopuff platform.
With Gopuff offering delivery for grocery, home cleaning, pet products and more, the businesses chosen so far mostly fall into the food and beverages category with a few exceptions. Among the eight initial small businesses selected to participate are A Dozen Cousins, Cards for All People, and French Toast Bites Ale as well as Shark Tank alums Me & the Bees Lemonade and Pipcorn. Meanwhile, Gopuff is looking for additional “Put Me On” participants.
Small CPG brands can apply on the website. Note that applicants will need to meet certain criteria as well as answer a number of questions about their business and why they want to join the program. Applications for the current round are due by October 24th.
Commenting on why he decided to get involved with the program, NBA star Paul said, “I’ve always had a strong passion for supporting entrepreneurs and bringing healthier foods and products to underserved communities. Sharing in this mission and collaborating with Gopuff takes this work to the next level.” Paul added, “Gopuff’s rapidly growing following and ability to add products to its platform immediately – and deliver to the hands of customers in minutes – is an invaluable resource for brands, and I’m looking forward to unlocking that further for the underrepresented entrepreneurs who need it most through ‘Put Me On.'”
Gopuff co-founder and co-CEO Yakir Gola said of the accelerator and working with Paul, “As first-time entrepreneurs, Rafael [Ilishayev] and I know firsthand how impactful mentorship and community is in developing and growing a successful business. Chris Paul has dedicated his time off and on the court to support entrepreneurs and we are excited to work with him to help aspiring entrepreneurs grow their businesses and reach new customers.”
Gopuff’s “Put Me On” program continues a recent trend of bigger brands lending a hand to smaller businesses — particularly those owned by individuals in underrepresented communities. For example, DoorDash launched its own accelerator for small, independent restaurants in New York City, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, and Atlanta earlier this year. In both cases, these programs offer businesses the opportunity to expose their brand to millions of customers already using these respective platforms. With that in mind, eligible CPG brands interested in Gopuff’s program should be sure to apply before the October 24th deadline.
