HYATTSVILLE, MD. — Everything Legendary, a Black-owned maker of plant-based burgers, has closed a $6 million Series A funding round led by CircleUp Growth Partners with additional investments from General Mills’ 301 INC and “Shark Tank” star Mark Cuban.
In less than a year since its founding, Everything Legendary has expanded from a family kitchen operation to a brand with a national retail footprint. Its chef-developed line of patties and grounds, based on a blend of pea and hemp protein with coconut oil, is sold in 1,500 grocery stores, including Safeway, Target, Ralphs and more. The startup, which now works with contract manufacturers to support production, said its products will be available in 5,600 grocery stores within the coming months.
“There are a lot of people trying to get into the $5 billion-plus plant-based food market,” said Duane “Myko” Cheers, co-founder of Everything Legendary. “What has our investors excited about us is they can see that we aren’t just another plant-based product ... we are looking to disrupt the multi-billion-dollar industry with unprecedented flavor, premium ingredients and high-energy marketing that sets our brand apart. Having partners like CircleUp and General Mills, that work with some of the biggest brands in the world, is an amazing honor.”
The funding will support the company’s retail expansion, new product development and field marketing activities. Products on tap include plant-based sausage, boneless wings and breakfast patties.
“We’re thrilled to partner with Everything Legendary,” said Doug Martin, chief brand and disruptive growth officer of General Mills. “Their plant-based, chef-created products are a natural fit for 301 INC, where our mission is to discover and elevate remarkable founders with innovative offerings. Given that Black Americans are one of the fastest-growing vegan demographics in the country, we believe Everything Legendary is poised for substantial growth — and we are just as energized by the passion of these founders as we are about the business opportunity. We're ready to work together to make big things happen.”