SAVE $500 WITH EARLY BIRD ACCESS

Stop Letting Your Dream Slip Away

Turn Your Food Idea into a Shelf-Ready Product That Sells

From Idea to Shelf: Launch Your Food Product the Right Way. No More Guesswork or Missed Opportunities—Get the Expert Guidance and Tools You Need to Succeed in the Competitive Food Industry.

 

Learn the step-by-step process to create, scale, and launch your food product.

Key Outcomes:

  • Creation of an FDA compliant, production-ready formulated product
  • Identification of co-manufactures and other partners to make and package your product
  • Financial and pricing models investors and retailers will love
  • Investor-ready business plan and brand startup design
Learn How To Get Launch-Ready

Stop Letting Your Food Dream Slip Away

Turn Your Food and Beverage Passion into a Thriving Business Today

No More Guesswork or Missed Opportunities—Get the Expert Guidance and Tools You Need to Succeed in the Competitive Food Industry.

 

This is the moment you’ve envisioned—your product in the hands of enthusiastic consumers. The only barrier to achieving this dream is taking that crucial next step.

Join us now to access Helmsman's unmatched expertise, tools, and support network, which will set you up for lasting success in the food industry.

Learn More

Learn With Insights From Successful Founders & Industry Insiders

Hear real advice from industry experts who’ve done it before

 

You’re Ready to Turn Your Food Idea Into a Thriving Business—and We’re Here to Help.

Your food creation has the potential to become something extraordinary. Whether it’s a family recipe or an innovative brand concept, now is the time to take it to the next level. Navigating the complexities of scaling, branding, and regulations can be overwhelming.

That’s where Helmsman Group’s Ready To Launch Program comes in.

Real Solutions to Startup CPG's biggest problems:

Get the step-by-step tools, expert guidance, and real-world strategies you need to launch successfully including:

✅ How to Formulate and Scale Your Product: Turn your recipe into a production-ready, FDA compliant formula and navigate Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs) to avoid costly mistakes.

✅ Understanding Regulated Foods: Know which regulations apply to your product to ensure compliance and prevent recalls.

✅ Sourcing Commercial Ingredients: Find the right suppliers for quality, cost-effective ingredients to scale efficiently.

✅ Assessing Your Market and Financials: Discover if your product has a large enough market and build a pricing model retailers will love.

✅ Setting Your Brand Up for Success: Build a strong brand, design standout packaging, and craft a winning pitch to secure investors.

✅ Finding the Right Co-Packer and Suppliers: Source commercial ingredients, identify reliable co-packers, and confidently move into large-scale production.

Backed by decades of experience and hundreds of successful product launches, we’re industry leaders who have helped countless foodpreneurs bring award-winning creations to market. Our expert-led program combines a proven framework with real-world insights, offering you the mentorship, tailored resources, and community support you need to see your culinary vision through to success. With our guidance, you’ll be equipped to overcome every challenge and create a brand that thrives in the competitive food industry.

From perfecting your recipe to scaling production, our program is built to help you succeed at every stage so you can focus on creating a brand that stands out in a competitive market.

 

Get Launch Ready Now!

You’re Ready to Turn Your Food Idea Into a Thriving Business—and We’re Here to Help.

Your food creation has the potential to become something extraordinary. Whether it’s a family recipe or an innovative brand concept, now is the time to take it to the next level. Navigating the complexities of scaling, branding, and regulations can be overwhelming.

That’s where Helmsman Group’s Food Business School comes in.

Backed by decades of experience and hundreds of successful product launches, we’re industry leaders who have helped countless foodpreneurs bring award-winning creations to market. Our expert-led program combines a proven framework with real-world insights, offering you the mentorship, tailored resources, and community support you need to see your culinary vision through to success. With our guidance, you’ll be equipped to overcome every challenge and create a brand that thrives in the competitive food industry.

From perfecting your recipe to scaling production, our program is built to help you succeed at every stage so you can focus on creating a brand that stands out in a competitive market.

What's Inside Our Ready-To-Launch Program:

Discover the exact steps you need to take your food idea from concept to shelf-ready brand. Each module is designed to tackle a critical stage of your business journey, giving you actionable insights, tools, and guidance tailored to food entrepreneurs.

 Learn the steps to take your food idea from concept to market launch with expert-led insights, proven frameworks, and real-world examples.

Module 1: Learn the CPG Landscape

Start with a clear understanding of the consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry to position your business for success.

Build a solid foundation by understanding the food industry, its challenges, and the science behind making a quality product that consumers trust.

  1. Survey the CPG Landscape: Get an overview of the food industry and what it takes to succeed. Learn your product's place in the market.
  2. Start Small – But Think Big: Learn to scale strategically, starting with strong fundamentals while identifying and leveraging your product's unique selling proposition.
  3. Food Science 101 & 102: Understand essential food science principles to ensure product quality and shelf stability including in-depth information on regulated food categories and what you need to know to stay FDA compliant

Why This Module Matters: Building your food business begins with understanding the landscape, consumer expectations, and the science behind your product.

Module 2: Learn Your Market

Identify your audience and define your unique value to stand out in a competitive market.

Define your target audience, uncover market opportunities, and position your product for success with clear financial insights and a compelling brand story. Lessons include:

  1. What’s the Market Opportunity? Spot gaps, trends, and opportunities that your product can fill. Learn how to research and validate your concepts
  2. Your Product’s Profile, Purpose & Consumer Need State: Define how your product solves problems and meets consumer demands, including how to identify and test the most important characteristics your product is bringing to the market
  3. Identify Your Target Audience: Zero in on your ideal customers to drive sales and loyalty, including identifying your key buyers 
  4. Understand Your Total Addressable Market: Size your opportunity and potential market reach to ensure your idea can be a financial success
  5. Trade Channels: Explore where and how your product can sell, including how to reach out to target retailers, distributors and brokers
  6. CPG Finance 101: Learn the financial fundamentals of running a CPG business and how to ensure your brand's financial success
  7. Your Brand Elevator Pitch: Craft a pitch that gets buyers and investors excited.

Why This Module Matters: Knowing your market ensures you develop a product that resonates with consumers, retailers, and investors.

Module 3: Develop Your Product

Turn your idea into a production-ready product with step-by-step guidance.

Transform your idea into a market-ready product by mastering formulation, ingredient sourcing, testing, and compliance, ensuring consistency and scalability.

  1. Define Your Product: Finalize your product concept and make it production-ready. This lesson includes guidance on how to pinpoint the key characteristics most important to your product's success
  2. All About Formulas: Understand how to convert recipes into scalable formulations.
  3. Sourcing Commercial Ingredients: Learn how to find quality, cost-effective ingredients. This lesson includes an in-depth supplement on specialized ingredient sourcing
  4. Lab Testing & Nutrition Labels: Test for quality and create compliant nutrition labels. This lesson includes instructions on accessing the Regulate nutrition labeling software free, when you need third party testing and how to meet FDA regulations
  5. Build or Buy – Getting Your Formula Developed: Decide between developing in-house or outsourcing, what to look for in finding a product developer, and how to ensure success in both models
  6. Final Prototype Considerations: Refine your product through testing and expert feedback.

Why This Module Matters: Developing a consistent, scalable, and compliant product is critical for a successful launch.

Module 4: Launch

Navigate production, funding, and distribution to get your product to market.

Navigate the critical steps of production, funding, and distribution to successfully bring your product to market while building retail and direct-to-consumer channels.

  1. Navigating from Prototype to Market: Understand the path from small-batch prototypes to full-scale production.
  2. Locating and Shortlisting a Co-Manufacturer: Learn how to find and vet the right co-packer for your product.
  3. Your First 50 Doors & Retail Commitments: Secure early retail placements to drive momentum.
  4. Launching DTC & Selling on Amazon: Build direct sales channels with e-commerce and major platforms.
  5. Design and Source Your Packaging: Create packaging that sells and complies with regulations.
  6. Getting Funded: Explore funding options to fuel your growth.
  7. Manufacture Your Product & Launch Your Business: Bring everything together for your first production run and market launch.

Why It Matters: This phase bridges strategy and execution, providing the tools to scale from kitchen to store shelves.

Module 5: Grow

Maximize your business potential and scale for long-term success.

Scale your business with proven strategies to increase sales, expand your market reach, and hit key milestones for sustainable long-term growth.

  1. Grow Your Business: Strategies to expand your reach, secure repeat customers, and grow sales.
  2. Make a Million Dollars: Learn the key principles of scaling to hit big revenue milestones.

Why This Module Matters: Growth is about building on your foundation—sustainably scaling production, marketing, and revenue. 

Expert Insights & Supplemental Material

Each phase includes:

  • Advice from Food Industry Experts & Founders: Real-world insights from people who’ve been in your shoes.
  • In-Depth Resources: Templates, checklists, and guides to streamline your work at every step.

 

See how we break down complex topics in clear, actionable lessons.

You’re Ready to Turn Your Food Idea Into a Thriving Business—and We’re Here to Help.

Your food creation has the potential to become something extraordinary. Whether it’s a family recipe or an innovative brand concept, now is the time to take it to the next level. Navigating the complexities of scaling, branding, and regulations can be overwhelming.

That’s where Helmsman Group’s Food Business School comes in.

Backed by decades of experience and hundreds of successful product launches, we’re industry leaders who have helped countless foodpreneurs bring award-winning creations to market. Our expert-led program combines a proven framework with real-world insights, offering you the mentorship, tailored resources, and community support you need to see your culinary vision through to success. With our guidance, you’ll be equipped to overcome every challenge and create a brand that thrives in the competitive food industry.

From perfecting your recipe to scaling production, our program is built to help you succeed at every stage so you can focus on creating a brand that stands out in a competitive market.

 

What Our Enrollees Say

"I can’t say enough good things about Food Business School! We came in feeling completely overwhelmed by all the steps involved in bringing a product to market, but their team broke everything down in a way that made it easy to understand and actionable." - Carol Vaziri

Turn Your Recipe into a Market-Ready Powerhouse

Your food idea deserves more than just a chance—it deserves to thrive. At Helmsman Group, we provide hands-on collaboration and proven strategies to transform your passion into a brand that stands out on store shelves.

Struggling to find a co-packer? Don’t know how to price your product? The Ready To Launch Program gives you the tools to solve these challenges with confidence.
Here’s what awaits you:

Overcome Industry Challenges with Ease

Move through complex regulations, scale efficiently, and confidently execute your brand’s expansion plan. Our program equips you with expert insights to manage each step of your food business journey seamlessly.

Build a Resilient and Scalable Business

It’s not just about bringing this creation to fruition—it’s about creating a sustainable brand that grows with you. Our program ensures you have the skills to adapt and thrive in the ever-changing food industry.

Join a Community of Forward-Thinking Entrepreneurs

Surround yourself with like-minded innovators as passionate about transforming the food industry as you are. You’ll share ideas, celebrate wins, and push each other to new heights.

Enroll in the Food Business School Today

What Our Enrollees Say

"The stories from experts weren’t just about big successes—they talked about the challenges too, which made it all feel doable. I finished the course feeling inspired and ready to take the next big step." - Kira Fitzpatrick - The Happy Protein

Why Helmsman’s Ready To Launch Program is Your Best Next Step

Presenting a CPG food brand doesn’t have to be overwhelming. The Food Business School gives you everything you need to turn your idea into reality, including:

expertsExpert Guidance That Fuels Your Progress:

With personalized mentorship from CPG industry veterans, you won’t just receive advice—you’ll tap into self-belief to make critical decisions that drive your development forward. Imagine having a trusted leader who will take you through each crucial stage, moving you from refining your creation to scaling, ensuring your route to sustainable progress remains clear and achievable.

toolsHands-On Tools to Keep You on Track:

No more guessing what comes next. With workbooks, checklists, and regulatory templates, you'll avoid costly mistakes and keep your take-to-shelves timeline on target. Your actions will be backed by proven strategies, allowing you to move forward with clarity and efficiency.

exclusive offersSpecial Offers to Accelerate Your Growth:

From discounted services like recipe reviews and nutrition labeling software to commercialization resources, these will save you time and money, helping you achieve tangible results faster—access exclusive industry insights that give you a competitive edge and pave the way for sustained advancement.

00

DAYS

00

HOURS

00

MINS

00

SECS

By joining Helmsman’s Ready To Launch Program...

...you’re not just receiving advice but building a future. Imagine confidently bringing your creation to shelves, taught by seasoned experts who’ve been in your shoes.

checkEvery strategic decision is grounded in expert advice, leading to the moment when your vision sits confidently on store shelves, reaching the hands of those who value what you've created. The satisfaction of seeing your idea come to life fuels your ongoing progress.

checkRevenue becomes predictable, allowing you to focus entirely on your passion for growing your brand. The peace of mind from financial stability and the fulfillment of running your own business replaces the stress of your day job, empowering you to embrace your entrepreneurial journey fully.

checkYou are surrounded by a thriving community of other food entrepreneurs who understand the same challenges and victories, making every milestone more meaningful.

The power to make a lasting impact is within reach—now it’s up to you to take the next step.

Enroll in the Food Business School today

Gain the expertise, tools, and community to take your food brand from concept to thriving business.
Don't wait—spaces are limited for personalized mentorship. Start building your future now.

Easing Your Concerns:
Setting Your Vision on the Path to Achievement

We understand that launching a consumer-ready item is a significant undertaking. It’s the result of your hard work, creativity, and dedication, and you want to ensure it reaches its full potential. Let us be your trusted partners, empowering you to take decisive action.

"I’m unsure if this program will fit where I’m now."

Whether you're in the early stages of development or ready to scale an existing food brand, this program adapts to meet your needs. Our expert care ensures that you'll have the tools and strategies to succeed no matter where you are on your journey. We’ve helped entrepreneurs from all backgrounds and are ready to help you.

"I don’t have a formal business background—will I be able to keep up?"

You don’t need a business degree or years of experience to excel here. Our step-by-step approach makes it easy to understand the complexities of the food industry, giving you everything you need to navigate the business side confidently. We’re here to empower you, no matter where you’re starting.

"I’m worried I won’t have enough time to commit fully."

We know how demanding your schedule can be, so this program is designed to work with your life, not against it. With flexible access to resources, you can learn and progress at your own pace, fitting the program into your schedule without stress.

Real Success Stories from Our Foodpreneurs

Helmsman Group has already helped countless food entrepreneurs like you turn their vision into reality. With over 200 products and over $2 billion in sales generated, our track record proves that we don’t just discuss results—we deliver them. From small startups to fast-growing brands, we’ve guided foodpreneurs through the challenges of scaling their businesses and bringing their offer to market.

What Our Enrollees Say

"The guidance from their experts? Absolute game-changer. We left with a clear plan and tools we’re already using to move our product forward. I’d recommend them to anyone looking to turn their vision into reality!" - Anna Malyala

Eon Longevity Tea

When the Eon Longevity Tea founder investigated a foraged botanical tea thought to have life extending benefits in an 8-week clinical trial and...

Read more

Magic Spoon

When Magic Spoon needed more nostalgic flavors to serve its subscription-based model, The Helmsman Group was able to develop several se...

Read more

Olivia’s O’s

Olivia Rodrigo, in collaboration with Interscope Records, Geffen Records and Universal Music Group, requested that we develop and launch...

Read more

Dear North

When Dear North, an Alaskan Native lifestyle brand, wanted to deliver the flavors and authenticity of the Alaskan Frontier in its Salmon Bites...

Read more

RedBud Brands – Sundaze

When a founder wanted to create value for orange growers beyond juice and fresh orange markets with a unique...

Read more

Eon Longevity Tea

When the Eon Longevity Tea founder investigated a foraged botanical tea thought to have life extending benefits in an 8-week clinical trial and...

Read more

Magic Spoon

When Magic Spoon needed more nostalgic flavors to serve its subscription-based model, The Helmsman Group was able to develop several se...

Read more

Olivia’s O’s

Olivia Rodrigo, in collaboration with Interscope Records, Geffen Records and Universal Music Group, requested that we develop and launch...

Read more

Dear North

When Dear North, an Alaskan Native lifestyle brand, wanted to deliver the flavors and authenticity of the Alaskan Frontier in its Salmon Bites...

Read more

RedBud Brands – Sundaze

When a founder wanted to create value for orange growers beyond juice and fresh orange markets with a unique...

Read more

At Helmsman Group, we take immense pride in leading aspiring food entrepreneurs through their journey from kitchen to market. Every concept we help develop reflects our core values—empowerment, innovation, and integrity. We believe in the potential of every idea and provide the knowledge, mentorship, and community support needed to turn those ideas into thriving, market-ready businesses. Your evolution is our mission, and we’re committed to ensuring that your passion becomes a culinary creation that stands out in a competitive industry.

Enroll in the Ready-To-Launch Today

What Will You Walk Away With?

By the time you complete Helmsman Group’s Food Business School, you’ll have more than just knowledge—you’ll have a clear course toward market achievement, a support system to rely on, and the confidence to thrive in the competitive food industry.

Here’s exactly what you’ll achieve:

checkA Retail-Ready Solution
Every aspect of your creation will be meticulously prepared for commercial viability. From industry compliance to packaging that captures your target audience’s attention, you’ll leave with an offering optimized for retail environments, ready to stand out and compete confidently.

checkAdvancement Blueprint
You’ll leave with a clear, actionable plan for expansion—whether that means growing your offerings, entering new markets, or optimizing operations. Your business won’t just endure; it will thrive with a sustainable, adaptable strategy for long-term progress.

checkAccess to a Powerful Community and Network
The connections you make here will last long after the program. You’ll become part of a community that provides ongoing help and valuable industry insights, helping you stay ahead of trends and giving you a competitive edge as you continue to grow.

checkThe Ability to Make Data-Driven, Strategic Decisions
You’ll gain the tools to evaluate market opportunities, navigate industry shifts, and make informed decisions that propel your venture forward. This is more than just revealing to the public—it’s about building a brand that continues evolving and offers you financial security.

00

DAYS

00

HOURS

00

MINS

00

SECS

Your Venture's Future Starts Now:

This is your opportunity to take action and set your creation up for lasting expansion. The Food Business School is more than just a course—it’s your future development to build a thriving brand backed by expert mentorship and a unified network that works with you every step. Don’t wait for the perfect moment.

With the right insight and tools, you’ll avoid the common pitfalls that cause up to 80% of launches to fail.

Take the first step toward propelling your business forward.

Join us today and turn your vision into a reality

Your Guiding Framework to Market Domination

Expert Mentorship for Every Stage, From Concept to Retail Succes

Every thriving food brand begins with a spark of inspiration, but turning that spark into a flourishing business requires strategy and action. At Helmsman’s Food Business School, you’ll master the complexities of launching an idea and transforming your vision into a sustainable, scalable brand. We equip you with essential tools, expert insights, and a clear path to navigate challenges, ensuring you feel supported throughout your entrepreneurial journey.

Helmsman Group is your trusted partner in transforming your concept into a market-leading brand. With over a decade of experience, we take a comprehensive approach to ensure your journey from idea to commercial achievement is seamless and impactful.

1

Market Analysis & Idea Refinement

Gain critical insights into your target market, conduct competitive analysis, and refine your product concept. We help you validate your idea, understand consumer trends, and position your brand for success in a crowded marketplace. From branding strategies to marketing planning, you’ll have the tools to ensure your product is perfectly aligned with market needs before moving into development.

2

Product Development

Perfect your recipe with expert facilitation, ensuring it’s ready for commercial manufacturing.

3

Commercialization Solutions

From navigating FDA regulations to finding the right co-packer, we handle the technicalities so you can focus on growing your brand.

4

Operations & Logistics

We streamline your supply chain, handling the logistics while you focus on building your business.

Meet Our Founders and Experts

 

Insights and Hacks from Experts and Founders You Won't Get Elsewhere

The Helmsman Group Team leads the course. Mark, MJ, and Janelle are seasoned food industry professionals who have brought hundreds of food innovations to market and generated over $2 billion in sales. With deep expertise in navigating regulations and scaling businesses, they are uniquely equipped to move you through the intricate journey from concept to commercial food brand excellence.

Plus Expert Cameos Throughout the course, you’ll hear from industry subject matter experts and successful founders who were once in your shoes. They’ll share their personal stories, advice, and strategies for overcoming challenges in the food industry. These real-world insights will give you a practical edge, helping you navigate the path from startup to commercial success.

Your Strategic Partner in CPG Success

At Helmsman Group, we’re more than consultants—your dedicated partners. With our comprehensive, full-service approach, we help food entrepreneurs overcome challenges.

Our Mission: Empowering Your Vision

We’re passionate about turning your vision into a profitable reality. Our mission is to facilitate food and beverage entrepreneurs through every stage of the CPG journey, producing consumer items that thrive in the marketplace.

How We Work: A Full-Service Approach

We provide end-to-end facilitation, walking your brand through formulating solutions, commercialization, and market entry. Our approach ensures that every challenge is met with innovative solutions, setting you up for long-term achievement.

Everything You’ll Get in This Program

This isn’t just a course—it’s a launchpad designed to turn your vision into a profitable, market-ready reality. You’re not just learning how to build innovations but gaining the tools, expertise, and community needed to make a sustainable brand. This investment offers more than education—it’s your action plan toward advancement.

When you enroll in our Ready To Launch Program, you gain access to:

  • Comprehensive Course Modules (Value: $3,000)
    Step-by-step strategy planning through every stage.
  • Success Workbook (Value: $200)
    Templates, guides, and checklists to help you implement key lessons and stay on track.
  • Video Interview Series with Industry Experts (Value: $500)
    Gain insights and strategies from CPG founders and experts.
  • Exclusive Community Access (Value: $1,000)
    Collaborate and connect with like-minded foodpreneurs to share ideas and gain collaboration.
  • Quarterly Live Q&A Sessions (Value: $1,200)
    Receive personalized advice from industry veterans tailored to your specific challenges.
  • Discounted Access to Nutrition Labeling Software (Value: $600)
    Simplify the labeling process with a tool designed to streamline regulatory compliance

The Ready To Launch Program 

Your Investment: $2,994

(or 2 payments of $1497)

✨Early-Bird Pricing ⭐
$2,250

The journey from concept to shelf is challenging, but with the proper oversight, it becomes your brand’s turning point.

You can keep wondering when or start today with a strategic plan designed for results.

Grab Your Early Bird Access

AVAILABLE FOR THE FIRST 30 DAYS ONLY

One-Time Payment: $2,250
(Save $500)

Take advantage of the early-bird pricing for exclusive mentorship and strategic insights.

JOIN NOW SAVE MORE
Payment Plan Option

Set in Motion Your Vision with Flexibility

2 Payments of $1,497

  • Total Value: $6,500+
  • Your Investment: $3,000 (split into two payments)
  • What You Get:
    • Comprehensive Course Modules
    • Success Workbook
    • Video Interview Series
    • Exclusive Community Access
    • Quarterly Live Q&A Sessions
    • Discounted Access to Nutrition Labeling Software

Start Now

Take the First Step Today!
With just your first payment of $1,500, you’ll begin transforming your food idea into a thriving business.

Pay in Full Option

Empower Your Full Potential and Save

Pay in Full: $2,750
(Save $250!)

  • Total Value: $6,500+
  • Your Investment: $2,750
  • What You Get:
    • All benefits from the payment plan, PLUS early access to personalized mentorship and exclusive bonuses.

Join Now

Seize This Opportunity!
By paying upfront, you save and accelerate your progress. Don’t wait—secure your spot today!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Ready to See Your Product on Shelves?

This is when you take control of your future and turn your culinary dream into a thriving brand. The Food Business School is your hidden gem, equipping you with everything you need to succeed, from expert advice to actionable tools.

Your food business is not a distant goal; it's within reach. The Helmsman Group’s Food Business School gives you the roadmap, assistance, and insights to create a brand that stands out in the competitive market.

Now is the time to take action—enroll today and let us help you bring your vision to life. With personalized mentorship and a proven process, you’ll have everything you need to create a lasting, successful brand.

By the end of Food Business School, you’ll have a market-ready product, a clear path to launch, and the confidence to scale your business. Ready to get started?

Get Started Now

selected

Helmsman Group is your trusted partner in turning your passion into profit. With industry-leading expertise and hands-on support, we’re ready to help you navigate the intricacies of development, scaling, and achieving retail prosperity.