Naturally MN Retail Launch Lab

The Retail Launch Lab is Naturally Minnesota's premier cohort program designed to help emerging consumer packaged goods (CPG) brands confidently navigate retail growth. Whether you're preparing for your first retail placement or looking to expand into new stores, this hands-on program equips founders with the knowledge, strategy, and industry connections needed to succeed. Through a combination of expert-led education, personalized coaching, and real-world retail experiences, participants gain the tools to build a strong retail strategy and avoid common pitfalls. Along the way, you'll join a community of fellow founders while learning directly from experienced retail buyers, brokers, distributors, and CPG professionals.

What to Expect:

  • Structured Online Curriculum (available to any NMN Member)

  • Bi-Weekly Live Cohort Sessions (via Zoom)

  • Three In-Person Experiences (Inaugural Market Tour, UNFI Distribution Center Tour, Graduation Showcase with buyer meet-and-greet )

  • 1:1 Retail Strategy Sessions

The Secret Sauce:

  • A clear, actionable blueprint for retail success

  • Lifetime access to a robust online curriculum

  • Direct connection to category buyers

  • Proven industry templates and tools

  • Hands-on guidance to avoid common mistakes

  • Community support from a cohort of like-minded founders

Applications for the 2026 Cohort are now closed!

The Retail Launch Lab will cost participants $450. This heavily discounted price allows emerging CPG brands access to world class content that can be valued at over $3000, including small group, hands on education sessions with an expert CPG retail consultant, and meetings with buyers.

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Testimonials

"This is the definitive lab for establishing your place in the retail grocery space."

— 2025 Cohort Member

"The best program to find coaches and advisors in one place for early stage founders is Naturally MN."

— 2025 Cohort Member

“Every detail was thoughtfully executed. We're thrilled with the outcome.”

— 2025 Cohort Member

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2026 Retail Launch Lab — Retail Market Tour led by Kate LaBrosse

With nearly two decades of experience across every level of natural products retail, I help early-stage CPG founders navigate this complex, capital-intensive industry. I began at the store level as a natural channel buyer, moved into national category management, and later led sales for a nationally distributed brand. As National Director of Sales-Conventional Channel at Presence Marketing, I called on major accounts like Target, Wegmans, HEB, and Albertsons. My path, from shelf to strategy, gives me a deep understanding of what it takes to succeed at retail. Today, I apply that experience as a coach and consultant for natural products brands and serve as National Board President for Naturally Network, helping elevate conscious, values-led companies across the industry.

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Led by Kate LaBrosse

Sponsored By:

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