Naturally Rising: A Pitch Competition Elevating Emerging, Purpose-Driven Brands Calls for Applications

Seattle, WA – Naturally Seattle announced today its biggest event of the year, Naturally Rising. Formerly known as Pitch Slam, Naturally Rising has evolved into a premier competition that spotlights emerging, purpose-driven brands and celebrates conscious leaders in the natural products industry. Applications are now open (see details below). The event will be held in Seattle on June 4 from 6 – 8:00 p.m., (location TBD). 

“Naturally Rising is more than a competition—it's a celebration of innovation, purpose, and the incredible entrepreneurial spirit driving the natural products industry forward,” said Debi Goldman, Executive Director of Naturally Seattle. “We are proud to provide a platform that empowers emerging brands, connects them with industry leaders, and helps them take the next step in their journey to success.” 

Naturally Rising provides a platform for innovative, better-for-you brands to gain exposure, refine their pitches, and receive invaluable mentorship to prepare for retail success. Five finalists will be selected to compete in Naturally Seattle’s Naturally Rising competition and will receive one-on-one mentorship in preparation for their live pitch in front of prominent industry judges. The winner will be rewarded with the opportunity to pitch on the national stage at the national Naturally Rising pitch competition, which takes place at Newtopia Now— formerly Expo East, the natural product industry premier experiential immersion trade show —held in Denver, Colorado, on August 20-22, 2025. 

The national champion of Naturally Rising’s pitch competition will receive exclusive prizes, including a booth at Expo West 2026, one of the industry’s most influential trade shows. 

Applicants for Naturally Seattle’s Naturally Rising Competition are open to established, better-for-you CPG brands based in Washington, Oregon, or Idaho. To be eligible, brands must: 

• Have an annual revenue of at least $100,000 and no more than $2,000,000. 

• Have a retail partner (physical or online retailer distribution). 

• Be an active Naturally Seattle member. 

• Be available to attend Newtopia Now in Denver, CO, on August 20-22, 2025. 

Applications close on April 11, 2025. Please contact debi {at} naturallyseattle.org if you are interested in supporting Naturally Seattle’s Naturally Rising Pitch Competition. Sponsorships, mentorships and judging positions are available. 

For more information and to apply, visit naturallynetwork.org/naturally-rising  

About Naturally Seattle: 

Naturally Seattle is a regional trade association serving the Pacific Northwest, with a focus on empowering natural and better-for-you brands. Naturally Seattle connects entrepreneurs, investors, retailers, and industry experts to foster a thriving local food and wellness community. Through educational programs, networking events, and collaboration opportunities, the chapter provides the resources and support necessary for businesses to scale and succeed. With a commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship, Naturally Seattle aims to elevate the region’s role in the national natural products industry. Learn more at naturallyseattle.org/