Mars is the latest food company to form an accelerator programme, as the firm looks to support early-stage food companies fast-track growth.
The Seeds of Change Accelerator, named after the Mars Food organic seed and food brand, will select six US and four Australian participants in the following areas: start-up food brands, innovative experiential offerings, new business models, and emerging technology.
Sectors of interest to Mars include world flavours, plant-based foods, easy meal solutions and responsible foods.
In addition to a grant of up to $50,000, each start-up will undertake a tailored four-month programme to scale its operations.
The initiative, led by Gary Arora, global lead of open innovation at Launchpad for Mars, will give the start-ups access to a panel of industry expert mentors, including Mars chairman Stephen Badger.
“The Seeds of Change brand is a prime example of the power of starting small and growing strong,” said Arora. “Seeds of Change was founded nearly 30 years ago to preserve the biodiversity of seeds and to make these organically grown seeds more readily available to gardens and farmers.
“By helping start-ups tackle practical business challenges, such as scaling a product and brand storytelling, and giving them access to our extended network of mentors and advisors, we’re nurturing the next generation of fresh ideas that will shape and enhance the meals of tomorrow.”
Fiona Dawson, global president of Mars Food, multisales and global customers, added: “We’re committed to nurturing the next generation of food innovators who are dedicated to creating and delivering healthier and tastier food solutions for more people.”
Last December, Mars joined Ingredion and Danone as a founding member of Givaudan’s new innovation platform for the food industry.
Called Mista, the initiative is said to be more encompassing than an incubator or accelerator and aims to enable start-ups and established corporations to optimise ideas, products, people and investments.
© FoodBev Media Ltd 2024
