Vegan Cheese Brand Launches Fundraising Campaign

Minneapolis-based vegan cheese company PunkRawkLabs (PRL) has launched a campaign on crowdfunding site GoFundMe in an effort to compete with “well-financed national brands in the growing field of dairy-free cheeses.” In 2010, PRL launched its then-innovative fermented vegan cheese line—made only with cashews, water, probiotics, and salt—and experienced rapid growth. Five years later, the vegan artisanal cheese market has expanded so greatly that PRL is seeking $50,000 in funding to stay competitive. The company plans to use the money to increase its reach, get non-GMO and organic certification, launch new products, keep prices competitive, and gain logistical support in new regions. This campaign is evidence that the vegan cheese industry—which includes national, nut-based artisan brands such as Miyoko’s Creamery, Kite Hill, and Dr-Cow—is experiencing significant growth