Moncton-based start-up Sum Good Foods Inc. is planning to pitch its product in the Dragon’s Den.
Owners Matt Pennell and April Glavine created a hydrating freezie made of pressed fruit and electrolytes “without any dyes, added sugars, or natural flavouring,” said a news release from the company.
Glavine says they first presented their products and company to the show producers.
“Back in January, we were selected to pitch. It went really well, and then they have to go in and sell it to the rest of the team as an opportunity to go further. We’re preparing ourselves for now and that will come up the first week of May,” Glavine says.
She says they are now practicing their pitch every day before they head to Toronto next month.
Pennell expects there will be some nerves to go on live television.
“Especially in front of the panel of such influential people in the business world. You are asking them for their money, so you have to make sure that you know everything that you’re saying to them is on board and you’re representing your brand to the best of your ability,” says Pennell.
He says the producers have been very helpful with suggestions on how to shorten things and how to make these more impactful, but even if they do get a deal, they won’t know for months whether or not the segment will even be chosen to air on television.
Neither of them has a favourite choice for who they’d like to work with, but they both agree Arlene Dickinson could help them open doors nationally.
“It’s getting that help across the country and nationally is really what we are looking for,” Glavine says.
(Photo: submitted)
Sum Good freezies are already available in all Atlantic Canadian Sobeys stores and various local wellness stores.
Pennell is an award-winning chef featured on Chopped Canada, Canada’s Great Kitchen Party, and You Gotta Eat Here.
Glavine is the creator of the award-winning Lean Machine Healthy Vending Machines Inc.
As new parents, they identified the need for better-for-you products that tasted great, which led to the creation of Sum Good Foods.
“We are thrilled to have the opportunity to showcase our brand and innovative product on Dragon’s Den,” says Pennell.
“Our mission is to create healthy snack options that families can feel good about, and we believe that Dragon’s Den is the perfect platform to help us expand our reach and grow our business.”
