Caroline Kersey Wins UGA Idea Accelerator Award
The founder of Caroline’s Cheese Straws secured $2,500 to expand her Georgia-based business operations.
Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Openings & Closings
Live Poll
Would you consider pursuing your own business venture immediately after graduating from college?
Caroline Kersey, founder of the Georgia-based snack company Caroline’s Cheese Straws, won a $2,500 award during the Fall 2026 UGA Idea Accelerator program. The funding will support the company as it works to secure third-party distribution for its products.
Why it matters
This award provides essential capital for scaling operations, helping a local entrepreneur move toward full-time management of her business following graduation. It validates the business model developed during the four-week accelerator program.
The business currently employs 15 staff members and distributes products through regional retail locations in LaGrange, Athens, and Newnan. The accelerator program itself spans a four-week curriculum focusing on financial literacy and investor readiness.
The players
Caroline Kersey
She is the founder of Caroline’s Cheese Straws and a student preparing to operate the business full-time.
UGA Idea Accelerator
This is a four-week program at the University of Georgia that helps participants refine business plans through mentorship and pitching.
The details
Caroline’s Cheese Straws operates in LaGrange and Athens, with goods currently available at retailers like Simon and Pine. The company plans to expand its product line by introducing two new cheese straw flavors around Christmastime.
Timeline
Caroline Kersey won the award during the Fall 2026 UGA Idea Accelerator program.
Two additional cheese straw flavors are scheduled for release around Christmastime.
Market Landscape
The UGA Idea Accelerator provides a structured environment for student entrepreneurs to transition from academic projects to professional business operations. This win reflects the growing trend of university-led incubators accelerating the growth of local Georgia retail startups.
Consumers in LaGrange, Athens, and Newnan can expect to see new product offerings in stores by the end of the year. The investment ensures the business remains a consistent local employer and retail presence for area shoppers.
The takeaway
Securing competitive grant funding can serve as a vital bridge for small businesses looking to transition into full-scale third-party distribution. Entrepreneurs should look for university-affiliated accelerators to gain both financial support and professional guidance.
What happens next
The company expects to launch two new cheese straw flavors around Christmastime.
Further reading
Learn more about local business growth and development in the Georgia Openings & Closings section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by LaGrange Daily News.
Live Poll
Would you consider pursuing your own business venture immediately after graduating from college?
