Women-Powered Business Contest

Your women-owned business deserves the spotlight. Here’s your chance to get your food products onto more shelves during Women’s History Month!  

This March, Michigan Good Food Fund is proud to launch a special contest spotlighting women-owned consumer packaged goods businesses. One standout entrepreneur will get the chance to see her business spotlighted on All Things Marketplace / Ask Jennyfer and her products in the All Things Marketplace online store. 

If you’re building something delicious and impactful — this is your moment.

The Women-powered Business Contest is designed to:

  • Elevate women-owned consumer product businesses in Michigan and help expand their access to new markets
  • Drive awareness of women-led innovation in Michigan’s food economy

We believe women entrepreneurs are shaping the future of food, and we’re excited to help amplify their impact.

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What You Could Win

This prize offers visibility and revenue opportunities, connecting your product to new customers across Michigan. 

One selected business will receive: 

  • A featured segment on All Things Marketplace / Ask Jennyfer 
  • Placement in the All Things Marketplace online store 
    • Promotional support from Michigan Good Food Fund and our network of lending and technical assistance partners 

How to Apply

Step 1: Complete the Application Form 

Fill out the application below by March 30 

Step 2 (optional but strongly encouraged): Post a Pitch Video  

Applicants can strengthen their submission by posting a short pitch video on Instagram and/or Facebook. Video submissions help judges see your passion, personality, and readiness for media exposure. 

Video Guidelines: 

  • 60–90 seconds 
  • Introduce yourself and the story behind your business 
  • Share what makes your product unique 
  • Explain why you should win 
  • Post on Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn and tag Michigan Good Food Fund and All Things Marketplace 
    • Use hashtag: #MGFFWomenPowered

Winner Announcement

The winner will be announced in early April 2026 with coordinated digital promotion and media coverage. 

Eligibility Requirements

  • Elevate women-owned consumer product businesses in Michigan and help expand their access to new markets
  • Drive awareness of women-led innovation in Michigan’s food economy

Questions?

For contest questions, please contact Jeremy Thomas, Associate Director of Program Marketing at Fair Food Network: jthomas@fairfoodnetwork.org

Judging Criteria

Applications will be reviewed based on: 

  • Product readiness and quality 
  • Strength of brand story  
  • Commitment to making a significant, positive impact in your local community 
  • Market potential and customer demand 
  • Operational readiness and ability to fulfill inventory 
  • Overall fit for marketplace and media feature 

Selected applicants may be contacted for additional information prior to final selection. 

Celebrate Women-Owned Businesses.
Build the Good Food Economy.

This Women’s Month, we’re not just honoring history, we’re investing in the future. 

Women-powered Entrepreneur Contest (1200 x 800 px) (2)

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