It’s a story that began in Svetlana Elgart’s kitchen.
A mother of three, Svetlana noticed that many of her children’s classmates struggled with healthy eating. In response, Svetlana became increasingly focused on addressing childhood obesity by providing health, wellness, and nutrition education through hands-on activities. The more she got involved, however, the more something became painfully clear: nutrition was not being discussed in enough households and schools. Someone needed to change that.
So, in 2012, Svetlana launched Rainbow Chefs—a brand that has since evolved into Rainbow Chefs Academy, one of California’s leading providers of hands-on health, wellness, nutrition, and cross-curricular aligned programming for K-12 schools. Educator and student feedback for Rainbow Chefs Academy has been profoundly positive, leading to word-of-mouth referrals and consistent growth. In fact, revenues increased by 9x since 2023, underscoring the company’s viability and, more importantly, its impact on childhood health and wellness.
Today, educators across the country seem increasingly interested in Rainbow Chefs Academy. A Texas launch is already in the works, and other states are expected to follow soon thereafter. As Rainbow Chefs Academy expands beyond the Golden State’s borders, we’re taking prudent steps forward. That’s why we’re excited to announce our partnership with ICA Fund.
Partner Spotlight: ICA Fund
Oakland-based ICA Fund accelerates businesses by providing mentorship and investments that encourage local market value and community wealth. Since 2012, ICA Fund has supported over 170 Bay Area businesses—including Rainbow Chefs Academy.
ICA Fund’s multi-faceted approach—one that includes personalized advising, active partnership, and flexible capital—aligns with Svetlana’s vision for Rainbow Chefs Academy.
“ICA is more for the heart, and I knew I would be supported on this journey. Money is great, but having a support system is really important. My whole team is excited about the community, which is what really stands out to me about ICA.”
—Svetlana Elgart, Founder of Rainbow Chefs Academy
To learn more about ICA Fund and its partnership with Rainbow Chefs Academy, read the company’s announcement.
Let’s Work to Offset Obesity & Diabetes in Your Community
Interested in learning about Rainbow Chefs Academy? Contact us to explore partnership opportunities or request a pilot program for your school district or youth organization.