Bluebird Grain Farms Takes Home Bragging Rights, Secures Prize Package and Coveted Spot at National Competition
SEATTLE, WA, May 04, 2026 /24-7PressRelease/ — Naturally Seattle is proud to announce Bluebird Grain Farms as the winner of this year’s “Naturally Rising” regional pitch competition, spotlighting a purpose-driven consumer packaged good (CPG) brand. The live event, held at Seattle University, brought together five inspiring finalists who pitched their businesses to a panel of industry-leading judges for a chance to win a prize package valued at more than $5,000 and advance to the national stage at Newtopia Now in Denver, Colorado in August 2026.
Selected for their innovation, market potential, and dedication to better-for-you products, Bluebird Grain Farms stood out among an impressive group of emerging brands and will go on to represent the Pacific Northwest at the national competition.
“Naturally Rising is all about bringing founders, retailers, investors, and mentors together to help take emerging brands to the next level,” said India Nagy, Executive Director of Naturally Seattle.
Future of Cool Was also named as this year’s People’s Choice Award Winner.
A Panel Built For Break Out Brands
This year’s esteemed judging panel includes proven brand builders, investors, and seasoned CPG leaders:
• David Lemley: President of Voodoo Brands
• Mandy Lozano: Principal & Founder of North Fork Partners
• Melissa Lyons: Head of Marketing at Blue Dog Bakery
• Tony Matta: President & CEO of Conifer Foods and former President of Starbucks Global Channel Development
• Edmond Sanctis: Co-founder of REASON Venture Partners and former CEO of Sahale Snacks
• Bob Wallach: Board Member at Alliance of Angels and Lopez Dorada Food
Meet the 2026 Finalists
This year’s finalists represented several of the fastest-growing categories in the natural products industry, including food, beverages, and household products:
• Future of Cool – A climate-conscious brand offering innovative cooling wipes, body sprays, and soaps crafted with clean ingredients and sustainable design.
• Dappled Tonic – A premium line of non-alcoholic craft beverages to enjoy over ice or mixed with your favorite spirit.
• Bluebird Grain Farms – Regenerative agriculture pioneers providing 100 percent certified organic ancient whole grains, fresh milled flour, and handcrafted blends.
• Still/Spark – A zero-proof botanical beverage brand crafted to gently shift mood and bring depth, calm, and clarity to everyday drinking.
• I Am Hot Honey – A bold, small-batch hot honey brand blending sweetness and heat to elevate everyday foods, crafted with high-quality ingredients.
Seattle’s Growing Role as a Food Hub
Seattle continues to gain recognition as a hub for innovative food and consumer brands. “People here care deeply about what they eat, where it comes from, and the values held by the companies they support,” Nagy added. “That makes the Pacific Northwest an ideal place for companies like Bluebird Grain Farms to prosper.”
About Naturally Seattle
Naturally Seattle is a community-focused organization that brings together entrepreneurs, retailers, investors, and industry experts to support the growth of natural and better-for-you CPG brands in the Pacific Northwest. Through events, education, and community programs, Naturally Seattle helps emerging companies accelerate their retail success and industry impact.
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