Stacy's Rise Project, the grant and mentorship program created by Stacy's Pita Chips to advance female founders, is back for 2020 and committed to helping even more women rise, in more ways than ever before.
Now through June 1, women business owners may apply to take part in the Stacy's Rise Project at stacysrise.helloalice.com for a chance to be one of 15 women who will receive the following:
• Advertising: Including expert design consultation and donated media space to raise awareness for these female-founded brands.
• 1:1 Mentorship: Pairing with Frito-Lay and PepsiCo leaders who are experts in sales, supply, marketing, R&D, and more.
• Grants: Each finalist will receive a $10,000 grant to help advance her business.
"In 2019, female founders received only 2.8% of venture capitalist funding – which means that, as small businesses struggle in the current environment, women-owned companies need more support than ever before," said Ciara Dilley, Frito-Lay vice president of marketing. "Years ago, marketing, mentorship and monetary support helped our own female-founded brand rise from a humble sandwich cart to the nation's supermarkets. And while the world looks very different today, we know these ingredients are still the recipe for success. That's why Stacy's is proudly expanding the Stacy's Rise Project to share our most valuable resources with 15 women in their journey to help make their dreams a reality."
A panel of Frito-Lay and PepsiCo leaders, as well as partners from Hello Alice, will choose the 15 finalists based on such factors as their commitment to social impact, sustainability and diversity, as well as how they have faced recent challenges for their business.
Last year, Stacy's announced Hakuna Brands Founder Hannah Hong as its inaugural $100,000 grand prize Stacy's Rise Project winner from among a group of five finalists (chosen from an initial pool of 400 applicants). This year's 15 finalists of the 2020 Stacy's Rise Project will be unveiled in July and take part in the program through November.
