Arlene Dickinson's District Ventures Capital invests in industry-changing Chickapea Pasta

CALGARY, Aug. 3, 2017 /CNW/ - A leading Canadian producer of healthy, gluten free and organic pasta, Chickapea Pasta, has received an investment from District Ventures Capital, the Venture Capital fund established by Dragon's Den star Arlene Dickinson. 

Chickapea Pasta has revolutionized the pasta industry by developing a healthy and tasty alternative to the dinner-time-classic. Made from just two ingredients, chickpeas and lentil flour, Chickapea pastas are gluten free, non-GMO Project Verified, certified organic and vegan, and offer an amazing 23 g of protein. 

The company's line of healthy pastas has gained traction with independent, regional and national grocers across Canada and the United States. Chickapea Pasta, together with District Ventures Capital, is looking to build on this momentum with the introduction of its second product line, a delicious Macaroni & Cheese, which will launch in the fall – just in time for back-to-school. 

The investment by District Ventures Capital, which completes Chickapea Pasta's growth financing, comes on the heels of an eventful 2017 for the company, and its founder, Shelby Taylor. 

In May, Taylor completed a six-month program at Canada's leading business accelerator for consumer packaged goods companies, District Ventures Accelerator. During that time, Taylor increased sales and expanded distribution into the U.S. market. Now Taylor has inked a deal with Canada's leading venture capital fund for consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies. 

"Chickapea Pasta is exactly the kind of company we're looking to invest in: an innovative product that challenges the traditional food industry by offering consumers healthy alternatives; a strong track record of sales, and an incredible entrepreneur that's built a great company," said Dickinson. 

District Ventures Capital is part of an ecosystem of support that delivers capital, mentorship and marketing to innovative CPG companies. Founded in 2015 by Arlene Dickinson, District Ventures Accelerator, District Ventures Capital, and Venture Communications operate with the sole purpose to turning successful companies - like Chickapea Pasta - into globally respected brands.

SOURCE District Ventures Capital

please contact: Justin Burrows | 416-276-7699 | [email protected]