From Boost to Breakthrough: AWAKE Chocolate Secures CAD 8M to Fuel Bold New Growth
It started with a bite — a delicious square of Fairtrade chocolate, infused with just enough caffeine to replace your daily coffee run. That simple, effective idea has now turned into one of Canada’s most exciting functional food success stories.
This July, AWAKE Chocolate, the brand behind those now-iconic caffeinated chocolate bites and bars, announced a fresh CAD 8 million investment to supercharge its next chapter. The funding round includes $5 million from Btomorrow Ventures (BTV), the venture capital arm of British American Tobacco, and $3 million from BDC Capital (BDC). With this new backing, AWAKE has now raised a total of CAD 15.5 million — a clear vote of confidence in both its product and potential.
From its humble beginnings to scaling 10x in just a few short years, AWAKE is now nearing $30 million in annual sales. You’ll find its vibrant packaging in over 3,000 stores across Canada — from Shoppers Drug Mart to Costco — and in 15,000+ U.S. vending and food service locations, with a growing presence in grocery retailers like The Fresh Market and Meijer.
But this new chapter is about more than just expanding shelf space.
It’s about scale, innovation, and spreading energy — literally.
“This investment marks a new era for AWAKE,” says Adam Deremo, CEO and Co-Founder. “We’ve seen incredible momentum thanks to our passionate fans and unique positioning in the functional chocolate space. Now, we’re ready to go even bigger — more products, more reach, and more energy to fuel our customers’ lives.”
🔋 What’s Next?
The fresh funding will support:
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Expanded supply chain capabilities, including new co-manufacturing and supplier partnerships
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Product innovation through deeper investment in R&D
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Marketing amplification, with more sampling, influencer collaborations, brand ambassadors, and event activations
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Team growth to support a high-performing, fast-scaling brand
Lukasz Garbowski, Chief Investment Officer at BTV, echoed the excitement:
“AWAKE continues to impress with its performance, vision, and leadership. As the demand for functional, wellness-focused foods grows, AWAKE is positioned at the sweet spot — literally.”
🍫 Why AWAKE?
Because one bite gives you the same boost as half a cup of coffee — but in a way that tastes like a treat. Made with Fairtrade chocolate, AWAKE’s line includes bestsellers like Peanut Butter, Salted Caramel, and Dark Chocolate Almond, all crafted with simple ingredients and no artificial flavors or colors. The products are gluten-free, kosher, and many are vegan and Non-GMO certified.
This is functional snacking at its finest — made to keep you sharp, focused, and smiling.
💡 About AWAKE
Founded in 2012 by Canadian entrepreneurs Adam Deremo, Matt Schnarr, and Dan Tzotzis, AWAKE Chocolate pioneered the functional chocolate category. With great taste and natural caffeine in every bite, it’s become a favorite among students, professionals, athletes, and everyday achievers who want energy on the go — without coffee breath.
Discover more or order online at awakechocolate.com
Follow @AwakeChocolate on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter
