About the Programme

Thrive is inspired by Sainsbury’s recognition of the lack of diverse-led businesses on supermarket shelves and the unique barriers that they face. Whether it’s inadequate funding, limited access to social capital and networks, or limited industry knowledge and expertise, it’s tough launching a new brand on such a large scale without access to the right support.

Created and delivered in partnership with Foundervine and Mission Ventures, the programme is open to entrepreneurial food and drink businesses seeking to grow but facing one of many barriers that might be holding them back. This bespoke programme has been designed specifically to address these obstacles and brings together industry-leading experts, a cohort of support, and the opportunity to secure grant funding in an effort to support selected brands to scale and flourish.

As part of the Thrive programme, the nine successful applicants selected will receive a welcome grant of £20,000, as well as more than 150 hours of practical 1:1 support and group learning opportunities with a variety of subject matter experts during the process. Each participant’s journey will be tailored to their specific needs and there will be additional funding available at various stages throughout the process, up to the value of £105,000 per brand.