BagelUp Expands Incubator Program for Aspiring Bagel Entrepreneurs

The second annual incubator, held one day prior to the New York BagelFest at Citi Field, moves beyond a single-day event by launching a year-round partner program. Recognizing that nearly half of all new food establishments shutter within five years, BagelUp founder Sam Silverman designed the curriculum to connect founders with vetted industry veterans. Participants will gain access to a network of specialists covering essential infrastructure, from architectural planning and equipment procurement to payment processing and sustainable packaging.

This year’s cohort features eight diverse businesses, ranging from sourdough micro-bakeries like Connecticut’s Bite Club to established pop-ups such as Delaware’s Beast Bagel. These entrepreneurs will undergo intensive training, including live pitch sessions and seminars on securing capital. A series of webinars will follow throughout the year, featuring expertise from partners such as King Arthur Baking Company, All Bake Technologies, and thinkDESIGN Architecture. By fostering these connections, BagelUp aims to provide a continuous support system for founders navigating the high-stakes transition from artisan baker to professional business owner.