Applications for the Sixth Annual Shelfie Awards are Opening Soon!
Back in 2021, Startup CPG launched what has become the largest free awards program built exclusively for emerging CPG brands: The Shelfie Awards. We created the Shelfies to give exceptional small brands a chance to be seen and get the recognition they deserve. The Shelfies eliminate the usual barriers that come with awards applications, making it accessible for brands at any stage. We’re looking for standout product innovations, compelling brand stories, and packaging that stops us in our tracks — and we can’t wait to see what you’ve been working on this year!
Everything You Need to Know to Apply to the 2026 Shelfie Awards:
Mark your calendar: Applications open April 14, 2026
Here’s how it works:
- Fill out the application form when applications open in April (link will be sent via e-mail)
- Ship your product samples to arrive between April 16-30 (shelf-stable products) or May 4-6 (refrigerated/frozen products)
- Send only 1 product per SKU, up to 3 SKUs max — brands that send more will be disqualified
- Our team will taste and evaluate all submissions during our May tasting sessions
- Finalists announced: Early August 2026
- Winners announced: Late August 2026
Shipping Details:
- Shelf-stable products: Ship to arrive April 16-30
- Refrigerated & Frozen products: Ship to arrive May 4-6 – make sure they are labeled as perishable on the outside of the box!
- Shipping addresses will be provided when applications open
If you have any issues with scheduling your samples to arrive within the assigned windows, please email community@startupcpg.com.
You don’t want to miss out on this incredible opportunity to turn your emerging brand into the next big thing!
Check out the 2025 Shelfie Award winners here.
About Startup CPG
Startup CPG is the biggest community in the world for emerging brands. We have a reach of 135K+, over 30k members in our Startup CPG Slack, and create millions of impressions per month. We host the #1 world podcast in CPG, 100+ events per year, the industry’s largest free award program, and will do anything to help brands grow and shine. It’s free!
Whether it’s our Slack community, our nationwide events, or our content — podcast, databases, webinars, and so much more — Startup CPG delivers major opportunities to emerging brands completely free. COME JOIN US!
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