Matt Clifford is a Partner at Ampersand Growth Partners, where he helps scale high-growth CPG brands with strategic execution and retail expertise. A Co-Founder of Barnana, Matt played a key role in transforming the upcycled snack brand into a category leader and B-Corp committed to sustainability. He later served as CEO of CanDo, guiding the brand’s expansion in the protein bar space and proving that better-for-you snacking can also taste amazing.
Beyond building brands, Matt is a Founding Board Member of Naturally San Diego and the Upcycled Food Association, championing the next generation of mission-driven CPG businesses. As an investor, board member, and advisor, he brings hands-on experience in growth strategy, retail execution, and brand development.
When he’s not helping brands scale, Matt dabbles in endurance sports, delivers world-class dad jokes (or so he claims), and does his best to keep up with his two boys—who keep him on his toes more than any boardroom ever could.
JR Simich is a Partner at Ampersand Growth Partners, where he leverages his extensive experience to scale mission-driven CPG brands. As a Co-Founder of Vive Organic, JR was instrumental in building the brand from the ground up, focusing on natural wellness shots that resonated with health-conscious consumers. His leadership and dedication contributed to Vive Organic's successful integration into Suja Life, marking a significant milestone in the natural products industry
Beyond his entrepreneurial ventures, JR is deeply committed to fostering authentic connections and making a positive impact. He is a Founding Board Member of Naturally San Diego, where he supports the growth of natural and organic brands within the community. His passion for sustainability and regenerative agriculture led him to bringing MIKUNA national and promoting the benefits of chocho, a plant-based protein sourced through regenerative practices.
Known for his genuine friendships and love for the Grateful Dead, JR embodies the spirit of collaboration and authenticity. As a father of two boys, he balances his professional endeavors with family life, continually striving to make a meaningful difference in both the industry and the lives of those around him.
Matt Clifford is a Partner at Ampersand Growth Partners, where he helps scale high-growth CPG brands with strategic execution and retail expertise. A Co-Founder of Barnana, Matt played a key role in transforming the upcycled snack brand into a category leader and B-Corp committed to sustainability. He later served as CEO of CanDo, guiding the brand’s expansion in the protein bar space and proving that better-for-you snacking can also taste amazing.
Beyond building brands, Matt is a Founding Board Member of Naturally San Diego and the Upcycled Food Association, championing the next generation of mission-driven CPG businesses. As an investor, board member, and advisor, he brings hands-on experience in growth strategy, retail execution, and brand development.
When he’s not helping brands scale, Matt dabbles in endurance sports, delivers world-class dad jokes (or so he claims), and does his best to keep up with his two boys—who keep him on his toes more than any boardroom ever could.
JR Simich is a Partner at Ampersand Growth Partners, where he leverages his extensive experience to scale mission-driven CPG brands. As a Co-Founder of Vive Organic, JR was instrumental in building the brand from the ground up, focusing on natural wellness shots that resonated with health-conscious consumers. His leadership and dedication contributed to Vive Organic's successful integration into Suja Life, marking a significant milestone in the natural products industry
Beyond his entrepreneurial ventures, JR is deeply committed to fostering authentic connections and making a positive impact. He is a Founding Board Member of Naturally San Diego, where he supports the growth of natural and organic brands within the community. His passion for sustainability and regenerative agriculture led him to bringing MIKUNA national and promoting the benefits of chocho, a plant-based protein sourced through regenerative practices.
Known for his genuine friendships and love for the Grateful Dead, JR embodies the spirit of collaboration and authenticity. As a father of two boys, he balances his professional endeavors with family life, continually striving to make a meaningful difference in both the industry and the lives of those around him.
