A WEYMOUTH sports energy bar maker has been hand-picked to take part in a new Seed Fund initiative.

Oompf Energy from Upwey in Weymouth is one of several Dorset companies to have been chosen to take part in an intensive educational summer programme.

Oompf are creators of 100 per cent natural energy bars and balls for athletes.

Having impressed the mentors during the first round of judging, these hand-picked start-ups will be offered a series of seminars, workshops, industry visits and meet-the-buyer events. Designed to help food and drink’s future stars transform their big ideas into big business, the Seed Fund Academy will provide expert guidance from buyers, marketers, investors, accountants and established entrepreneurs. They will also encourage the Class of 2017 to share their experiences and bring fresh ideas to the table.

Partnering with Great Taste for the first time this year, the Seed Fund has compiled an academy line-up that reflects the nation’s evolving tastes and changing needs from the food and drink industry.

Fresh from the pitches that landed them a place in this year’s Seed Fund Academy, these 13 start-ups will now immerse themselves in a summer of business development, spending time with well-respected industry professionals and business leaders, such as Guy Tullberg from Tracklements, top baker Tom Herbert, Renée Elliott from Planet Organic, John and Tortie Farrand from the Guild of Fine Food, Primrose Matheson from Primrose's Kitchen, Nicki Stewart and Mark Wiltshire from Diverse Fine Food and Jayne Noblet and David Webb from branding consultancy, The Collaborators.

Jayne Noblet, owner of The Collaborators and founder of the Seed Fund, said: “With record entries and an incredible first round of judging, it’s been quite a year for the Seed Fund already, but we know the best is yet to come.

“Having partnered with Great Taste to reach out across the whole of the UK for the first time this year, we’ve been blown away by the innovative products and driven individuals that have come before us, very much reflecting the changing face of food and drink today.

“We can’t wait to get stuck into the Seed Fund Academy and help them to find their way to the next level, as our mentors continue to give their time to nurture the next generation of talent that’s emerging in our industry.”

CONTACT ME:

T: 01305 830982

E: Catherine.bolado

@dorsetecho.co.uk

Twitter: @Dorsetecho