Whole Foods Market selects 10 brands for 2026 LEAP cohort

Whole Foods Market has announced the 10 brands selected for the 2026 Early Growth cohort of its Local and Emerging Accelerator Program (LEAP). Now in its fifth year, the program provides participants with a 12-week curriculum, mentorship, and industry connections. Selected brands may also qualify for a $25,000 equity investment.

The cohort was chosen from over 2,000 applications. The participating brands, none of which are currently sold in Whole Foods Market stores, include Bonny (New York), Cotto (New York), Folkland Foods (Pennsylvania), HEYDOH (New York), HOL Health Club (New York), Joon Pistachios (California), Sababa Foods (New York), Tea with Tae (Colorado), üm (California), and Yah Yah Yah (Colorado).

Following the program, products from these brands will be evaluated for potential placement on Whole Foods Market shelves.