Image
Read the full April 24 GSL newsletter.
An inaugural program from Schnuck Markets, Inc. — an executive-level GSL investor — helps local founders find their footing. Schnucks Springboard Diverse-Owned Business Accelerator last year named its first cohort, a group of 10 local startups chosen for their business stability, incremental sales opportunity, strategic vision, and corporate responsibility. Those chosen have spent the last seven months taking business development classes at Schnucks headquarters. Now, they’ll head into the real world: a four-week, in-store product trial at 15 select Schnucks stores.
The Bottom Line: By championing small businesses and entrepreneurs, anchor companies like Schnucks can have an outsized impact on the region’s economy. It’s a win-win: Schnucks cultivates potential new brands for its store shelves, while small businesses gain the skills they need to compete at a high level.
“Schnucks is a nationally recognized top grocery chain. If you’re prepared to go in Schnucks, you’re prepared for success in other locations,” said Sylvester Chisom, co-founder of Schnucks Springboard participant Show Me the World.
RELATED:
A World of Possibilities | Founded at Vashon High School, Show Me the World Project provides transformative education in entrepreneurship, leadership, and STEM to students in under-resourced communities in St. Louis. Read this STLMade story.