When Hamdi Ulukaya bought a yogurt plant in 2005, he probably didn’t expect that it would become the yogurt empire known as Chobani. In the same way, the companies that have ‘graduated’ this year from the MassChallenge accelerator have all evolved from auspicious beginnings to become growing names in Boston’s food startup scene. Hamdi delivered the keynote speech at the MassChallenge Award Ceremony held last week at the Boston Convention Center to 1,600 attendees in support of local innovation.
From fast-casual vegan bowls to fertilizer and alcoholic ginger beer, these businesses have demonstrated that a dedicated team and an innovative idea are the building blocks for a successful business. And, with the cash prizes provided by MassChallenge, they’re poised to continue growing. Who knows? Before long, they may be household names. In the meantime, though, we’ve compiled a list of the various food companies that made a showing amongst the winners. Take a look!