JetBlue's New Mentoring Program Helping Small, Responsible Food Companies Get Off the Ground

by Sustainable Brands
Mar 17, 2015 2:00 PM ET
JetBlue's in-flight snack boxes include a range of healthier snack options | Image credit: Brian Sumers

Originally posted on Sustainable Brands

JetBlue Airways recently launched its first business mentoring program, called BlueBud (buddies + budding new companies), which will offer small and startup responsible food companies an opportunity to get their businesses off the ground (pun intended) and their products onboard commercial aircraft.

BlueBud offers mentorship to small food companies that are creating unique and novel concepts, helping them to connect with a diverse group of customers and maintain responsible practices. Participants will get special access to JetBlue's business leaders, who will offer participants access to the airline's unique product development culture, as well as valuable industry insights.

The first BlueBud is focused on food companies from New York State. Applications are being accepted until April 6, 2015.

"We haven't forgotten what it's like to start as a small company that wants to make a difference," said Sophia Mendelsohn, JetBlue's head of sustainability. "This program gives us an opportunity to support small food companies with compelling ideas that align with our belief that just because you're traveling, your health and conscience don't have to suffer. We're proud of the products and foods produced in New York State that also consider environmental impact and these are our first choices to serve onboard and in our airports."

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