Activating Partnerships for Product-Based Founders

Growth isn’t just about having a great product—it’s about getting it into the right hands, through the right channels, with the right partners by your side. Strategic partnerships can open doors to new markets, increase brand visibility, and accelerate traction without the overhead of going it alone. But not all partnerships are created equal—and knowing how to identify, structure, and activate the right ones is essential for sustainable success.

The Nasdaq Center is excited to be joined by Samantha Carroll, CEO and Principal Consultant at Once Upon a Brand LLC, for a session on strategic partnerships for product-based founders. You’ll learn how to pinpoint high-impact partners—whether they’re retailers, co-marketing collaborators, fulfillment platforms, or community leaders—and turn those connections into long-term growth levers. We’ll explore how to approach potential partners, craft mutually beneficial offers, and avoid common pitfalls that stall momentum.

Key Takeaways:

• Learn how to identify partnership opportunities that align with your business goals and customer base.

• Discover how to build win-win relationships that create value without draining your time or resources.

• Explore real-world examples of CPG founders who’ve used partnerships to grow awareness, boost distribution, and deepen customer engagement.