MassChallenge

MassChallenge is a global nonprofit startup accelerator headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, established in 2009. It supports early-stage entrepreneurs across various industries, including technology, healthcare, and social impact, by providing mentorship, resources, and networking opportunities. With locations in Israel, Mexico, Switzerland, Texas, and the UK, MassChallenge connects high-potential startups with industry experts and investors to foster innovation and facilitate growth. The accelerator operates on a non-equity model, allowing entrepreneurs to maintain full ownership of their companies while benefiting from strategic partnerships and tailored training programs. Through its diverse initiatives, such as targeted accelerator programs like MassChallenge HealthTech and FinTech, the organization aims to drive impactful change and enhance the global innovation ecosystem.

Cait Brumme

Acting CEO

Nick Dougherty

Managing Director, MassChallenge HealthTech

Siobhan Dullea

CEO

Matt Lashmar

Managing Director

Camila Lecaros

Managing Director

Yonit Serkin

Managing Director

Devon Sherman

Founding Director, Head of MassChallenge FinTech

Michelle Williams

Vice President and Head of Texas Strategy

Past deals in Food Processing

Angry Camel

Non Equity Assistance in 2024
Angry Camel is a food technology company focused on transforming the snack and beverage industry by innovating on-the-go products derived from chickpeas. They specialize in producing organic chickpea protein isolate and a range of nutritional products, including protein-enhanced food, milk, yogurt, whipped cream, meat alternatives, and egg replacements. By utilizing chickpea by-products, Angry Camel offers cost-effective, plant-based protein alternatives to traditional snacks and beverages.

Terra Bioindustries

Non Equity Assistance in 2024
Producer of plant-based protein intended to decarbonize supply chains by creating valuable products from underutilized waste from other industries. The company offers a sustainable plant-based protein that is produced from spent grains by transforming the unused part of the grain from beer manufacturing into functional vegan protein, enabling clients to get products that replace the need for soy and pea protein in meat and dairy replacements

Impacfat

Non Equity Assistance in 2024
Producer of food products intended to provide fish meat alternatives through cell cultivation. The company specializes in producing cultivated cell-based fish fat to greatly enhance the flavor, texture aroma and nutrition of alternative protein products, enabling consumers to get healthy fats such as omega-3 that protect from heart diseases.

Yeastime

Non Equity Assistance in 2024
Yeastime is a pioneering company focused on transforming the fermentation process through its innovative ultrasound technology. This deep-tech hardware device optimizes fermentation by utilizing sensors and mechanical waves, resulting in a reduction of time, costs, and environmental impact. By accelerating fermentation by up to 30%, Yeastime enhances industrial productivity while simultaneously minimizing the ecological footprint of its clients. This groundbreaking approach positions Yeastime as a leader in food technology, offering significant advancements in efficiency and sustainability.

Fotortec

Non Equity Assistance in 2024
Fotortec is a biotechnology company focused on sustainable protein production. It specializes in producing mushroom-based ingredients that leverage technology to convert various types of vegetable waste into fully traceable plant-based products. This innovative approach aims to provide consumers with adequate nutrition while promoting environmental sustainability. Through its processes, Fotortec contributes to reducing food waste and enhancing the availability of nutritious food options.

Cultimate

Grant in 2022
Cultimate Foods is a cellular agriculture company focused on developing cultivated fat for hybrid alt-meat products. By replicating the structure of animal fat tissue, the company aims to create plant-based fat alternatives that enhance the sensory experience of meat consumption. Utilizing a unique technological approach to 3D cultivation, Cultimate efficiently produces its ingredients while reducing production costs. The company’s innovative methods enable the development of cell-cultured meat alternatives that provide a sustainable and ethical option for consumers seeking to enjoy meat without compromising on taste or texture.

NILE AGRO VALUE CHAIN

Non Equity Assistance in 2021
Nile Agro Value Chain is an agribusiness startup in agriculture that identifies the set of actors and activities that bring a basic agricultural product from production in the field to final consumption, where at each stage value is added to the product. Nile Agro value Chain achieves this through vertical linking or a network between various independent business organizations and by involving them into food processing, packaging, storage, transport and distribution. The startup also engage in traditional agricultural value chains by generally through spot market transactions involving a large number of small retailers and producers. The venture also characterize agriculture value chain by vertical coordination, consolidation of the supply base, agro-industrial processing and use of standards throughout the chain. The venture achieves its mission in agriculture value chain through agricultural mechanization, traditional farming, farm portfolio investments, interstate trade of agricultural commodities, online trade of food produce through its online marketplace, aggregating farmers into a multipurpose cooperative society, linking farmers to off-takers, contract farming, food processing, providing extension services and collaborating with different stakeholders in the agriculture value chain in Uganda,Africa and beyond. We are currently working with over 1,200 farmers in Ibanda District aggregated or organized under our farmers groups and cooperative society.

Free Dynamics

Non Equity Assistance in 2021
Free Dynamics develops innovative electronic temperature sensors that operate without external batteries, leveraging quantum dynamics for enhanced performance. These miniature and cost-effective sensors are designed to be integrated into essential drug vials, ensuring compliance with stringent storage conditions. By providing reliable sensing, recording, and authentication capabilities, Free Dynamics' technology helps the pharmaceutical industry protect against tampering and counterfeiting, thereby facilitating the safe distribution of temperature-sensitive products, including pharmaceuticals and food.

Fybraworks Foods

Non Equity Assistance in 2021
Fybraworks Foods, Inc. is a food biotechnology company founded in 2020 and based in Minnetonka, Minnesota. It specializes in developing alternative meat substitutes and animal-free meat structural proteins through advanced fermentation techniques. The company aims to replicate the taste and texture of traditional meat while promoting sustainability and humane practices. By providing innovative technological solutions, Fybraworks Foods enables industry leaders and consumers to access meat alternatives that minimize animal slaughter and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, thereby contributing to environmental preservation.

Proeon

Non Equity Assistance in 2021
Proeon Foods specializes in developing a variety of plant-based protein ingredients aimed at food manufacturers. The company offers a range of protein options, including amaranth, hemp seed, mung bean, fava bean, and chickpea proteins. By providing these ingredients, Proeon supports healthier eating habits and promotes clean food practices, catering to the growing demand for natural and sustainable food solutions.

Grain4Grain

Non Equity Assistance in 2021
Grain4Grain is a San Antonio-based food-tech startup focused on producing low-carb, high-protein flour from brewers spent grain, a significant byproduct of the brewing industry. The company has developed a patent-pending process that efficiently dries and mills this spent grain in under 20 minutes, a significant reduction from the conventional six-hour method. By upcycling this resource, Grain4Grain not only creates a nutritious ingredient but also promotes sustainability within the food supply chain. Since its launch 10 months ago, the company has upcycled 120,000 pounds of spent grain and introduced two consumer packaged goods in nearly 200 HEB stores. Additionally, Grain4Grain is actively pursuing contracts with various product makers, bakeries, and even a dog food manufacturer to expand its market reach and product offerings.

Greencovery

Non Equity Assistance in 2021
Greencovery specializes in food upcycling technology that enables food companies to produce sustainable ingredients from side-stream production. The company focuses on accelerating the time-to-market for new components recovered from these side streams, thus enhancing the feasibility and sustainability of its customers' businesses. Greencovery's proprietary technology allows for the recovery of valuable ingredients that would otherwise remain unutilized, resulting in natural and upcycled products with a low carbon footprint. The offerings include savoury flavours, supplements such as amino acids, proteins, fruity flavours, and fibers, catering to markets like sports nutrition, beverages, and protein alternatives. By facilitating effective recovery of valuable products, Greencovery supports food manufacturers in creating more sustainable and functional food ingredients.

Oxyle

Non Equity Assistance in 2021
Oxyle AG is a Swiss company based in Zurich that specializes in wastewater treatment aimed at removing persistent and toxic micropollutants from water sources. Established in 2020, the company has developed a novel technology that effectively degrades hazardous substances, including pharmaceuticals, personal-care products, endocrine-disrupting chemicals, pesticides, and industrial chemicals. Oxyle serves a diverse clientele, including the pharmaceutical, biotech, chemical, food and beverage sectors, research laboratories, hospitals, and wastewater treatment facilities. Its innovative approach not only helps clients comply with regulatory standards but also offers a sustainable alternative to wastewater incineration, thereby contributing to reduced CO2 emissions.

Umami Bioworks

Non Equity Assistance in 2021
Umami Bioworks is a company focused on the discovery and development of a scalable platform for producing cultivated seafood, aiming to protect endangered marine species while providing consumers with sustainable seafood options. The company utilizes systems engineering to enhance the discovery and industrialization processes, facilitating local production that is both price competitive and environmentally responsible. Its innovative approach involves creating cell-based food products derived from fish cells and tissue, which are designed to be free from harmful substances such as mercury, antibiotics, microplastics, and ocean pollutants. By offering affordable, cell-cultured seafood and meat alternatives, Umami Bioworks addresses the growing demand for healthy and sustainable food choices.

Michroma

Non Equity Assistance in 2021
Michroma Corporation is a biotechnology company that specializes in producing natural thermostable colorants derived from filamentous fungi through a fermentation process. Founded in 2019 and based in both San Francisco, California, and Rosario, Argentina, Michroma aims to replace synthetic pigments and those sourced from animals and plants with sustainable, naturally produced alternatives. The company harnesses synthetic biology to develop proprietary fungal strains that generate high-performance ingredients in bioreactors. Currently, Michroma is prototyping its innovative pH-stable and heat-stable food colorants in collaboration with leading food and beverage and cosmetic companies. Additionally, the company is exploring the production of mycoprotein and other ingredients, making strides in the sustainable ingredients market.

Umiami

Non Equity Assistance in 2021
Umiami is a French food-tech startup founded in 2020 and based in Paris, focused on developing plant-based food technology aimed at reducing meat consumption. The company specializes in creating plant-based whole-cuts that utilize plant proteins, providing consumers with alternatives that closely replicate the taste, texture, and aroma of traditional meat products. By offering these innovative solutions, Umiami seeks to address the growing demand for sustainable food options while promoting healthier dietary choices.

GASTROCAMPO

Non Equity Assistance in 2021
At Gastrocampo we are revolutionizing the food system making it fairer, more transparent and more sustainable. By combining technology and logistics, we offer a real, scalable and multi-local solution. Gastrocampo is a SaaS-enabled marketplace that gives food producers the tools to digitalize their farm and business so they can connect and sell their produce directly to their hospitality clients (food shops and restaurants), eliminating the need for intermediaries. In turn, we are helping HORECA customers to become more sustainable while saving time and headaches when buying directly from producers! Thanks to AI, Machine Learning and blockchain we will be able to provide a platform mutually beneficent for food producers, restaurants and the environment.

SGMA

Seed Round in 2020
SGMA specializes in coatings & advanced materials using Sol-gel process. It develops practical, sustainable solutions for today’s global problems. SGMA’s technology platform has a wide range of applications. The first area we are aiming to address is that of food packaging. The company is actively engaged in a program to help Starbucks, McDonald’s, Coca-Cola, Yum! Brands and the World Wide Fund for Nature. SGMA’s Technology Platform provides a quickly scalable solution to address the zero-plastic goal with a potential cost reduction, as the solution is delivered via a mono-material which is 100% recyclable. It has applications beyond the initial coffee cup solution, being able to address trays, boxes, and beyond. The company is led by CEO Dr Fanya Ismail and was founded in 2017.

Enzymit

Non Equity Assistance in 2020
Enzymit is focused on transforming global manufacturing by advancing cell-free bio-production technology, which aims to reduce reliance on scarce resources and enhance sustainability. The company develops novel enzymes using artificial intelligence and deep learning algorithms, enabling the creation of innovative molecular machines that can convert abundant feedstocks into valuable products across various sectors, including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, food, and materials. By employing small, modular bio-reactors, Enzymit enhances efficiency, reduces costs, and minimizes environmental impact compared to traditional whole-cell bio-production methods. This approach not only fosters resource independence but also allows for greater flexibility in product customization, positioning Enzymit as a competitive alternative to conventional chemical manufacturing.

Wenda

Non Equity Assistance in 2020
Wenda is an Italian startup founded in 2015 that focuses on enhancing food safety and sustainability through an innovative collaborative platform for food traceability. This platform automates the collection, analysis, and sharing of supply chain data, integrating seamlessly with existing tools and systems used by clients. By providing real-time insights into temperature and traceability, Wenda's platform supports decision-making for all stakeholders in the food supply chain, ultimately aiming to reduce food waste. The company's technology leverages Internet of Things (IoT) capabilities, blockchain for improved transparency and security, and machine learning to refine process management. Wenda's user-friendly solution is designed to address the needs of food distribution companies by optimizing processes, reducing costs, and enhancing service levels. It offers various modules for different phases of the supply chain, including shipping, storage, inbound, outbound, and delivery, each tailored to improve efficiency and compliance with safety standards. With a focus on global scalability and strategic partnerships, Wenda aims to revolutionize the food supply chain through digitalization and data-driven insights.

ImagoAI

Non Equity Assistance in 2020
ImagoAI, Inc. is a food-tech company based in Saint Paul, Minnesota, specializing in food quality assessment solutions for manufacturers, processors, retailers, and distributors. Founded in 2017, ImagoAI develops advanced, non-destructive, and contact-less quality inspection systems, including GrainQ for grains, Feed.AI for animal feed, BakerGo for bakery products, and PotatoMash for potatoes. The company employs cutting-edge technologies like Hyperspectral Imaging and an automated image processing pipeline to facilitate real-time quality analysis and monitoring of both raw and processed food items. Additionally, ImagoAI's systems assist in detecting diseases in crops, thereby supporting agricultural researchers in improving seed hybrids and increasing crop yields. The company aims to enhance food safety and accessibility worldwide through its innovative solutions.

En Solución

Non Equity Assistance in 2020
En Solución is focused on enhancing food safety by integrating novel technologies and advanced sensing and control processes. The company is currently developing a high-concentration nanobubble generating device that features recirculating and regenerative functions, designed to produce significant concentrations of nanobubbles in wash water baths. This innovative technology aims to offer superior efficacy in cleaning and sanitizing by combining effective pathogen-killing agents with an improved delivery and control system. By leveraging nanotechnology, En Solución seeks to provide clients with alternatives to traditional post-harvest chlorine washes, ultimately modernizing practices within the agriculture industry.

TicInsect

Non Equity Assistance in 2020
TicInsect addresses the problem of food waste disposal by transforming organic waste into valuable protein ingredients for animal feed. The company utilizes larvae, which act as natural recyclers of organic material, to bioconvert food waste into high-protein flour and oil. This innovative process not only reduces the environmental impact of organic waste but also offers a sustainable alternative to traditional fish- and soy-derived feed ingredients. By providing pet food manufacturers with protein-rich substitutes, TicInsect contributes to a more sustainable food supply chain while helping to mitigate food waste.

La Comandanta

Non Equity Assistance in 2020
La Comandanta identifies and promotes Creole and ancestral Mexican foods and offers bulk and packed products. It was founded in 2011.

Lentera Africa

Non Equity Assistance in 2020
Lentera Africa is a technology-driven company that supports farmers by providing access to high-value markets for their produce, both locally and for export. It utilizes satellite-based demand planning alongside a mobile platform to aggregate farm produce, ensuring that farmers can effectively meet market demands. Additionally, Lentera develops remote sensors that monitor environmental conditions, capturing satellite and drone data to assess crop health and estimate yields. This innovative approach allows farmers to adapt to climate change through precision agriculture and smart farming practices, while also offering valuable insights to agribusinesses, banks, and insurance companies for improved demand planning and sourcing strategies.

Otrafy

Non Equity Assistance in 2020
Otrafy is a Quality Management Software company that focuses on optimizing vendor relationships for quality assurance departments, particularly in the food production sector. The platform aims to streamline compliance and regulatory processes by minimizing and automating low-value tasks, thus allowing facilities to meet necessary standards more efficiently. Additionally, Otrafy leverages blockchain technology to enhance compliance and mitigate operational risks within the supply chain. This approach addresses critical challenges such as certification, compliance management, production efficiency, food safety, disease prevention, and product authenticity, enabling farmers to effectively communicate the history of their products from the farm to retail outlets.

Tender Food

Non Equity Assistance in 2020
Tender Food is a food technology startup focused on developing plant-based and cultured meat products. Founded by researchers from Harvard University, the company utilizes novel fiber production technology to transform plant proteins into fibrous structures that closely replicate the texture and mouthfeel of traditional meat. This innovative method aims to create alternative meats that not only match the taste and nutritional value of animal meat but also promote vegan food options. Through its sustainable approach, Tender Food seeks to support meat companies and enhance the consumer experience with realistic and environmentally friendly alternatives.

Enzymit

Seed Round in 2020
Enzymit is focused on transforming global manufacturing by advancing cell-free bio-production technology, which aims to reduce reliance on scarce resources and enhance sustainability. The company develops novel enzymes using artificial intelligence and deep learning algorithms, enabling the creation of innovative molecular machines that can convert abundant feedstocks into valuable products across various sectors, including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, food, and materials. By employing small, modular bio-reactors, Enzymit enhances efficiency, reduces costs, and minimizes environmental impact compared to traditional whole-cell bio-production methods. This approach not only fosters resource independence but also allows for greater flexibility in product customization, positioning Enzymit as a competitive alternative to conventional chemical manufacturing.

BFT

Grant in 2019
BFT focuses on innovative sugar beet processing to create products with distinctive properties that benefit both food producers and consumers. By offering artificial sweeteners that reduce the glycemic load of foods, BFT addresses the growing concerns related to high glycemic stress in modern diets. Their products are designed to support human metabolism, positively influencing glycemic response and providing metabolic support after sugar intake. This approach not only aids in the formulation of gluten-free and lactose-free foods but also plays a role in combating the increasing prevalence of lifestyle diseases linked to high sugar consumption, thereby promoting improved nutrition and overall well-being.

Uproot

Non Equity Assistance in 2019
Uproot, founded in 2018 and based in New York, specializes in providing healthy and sustainable plant-based milk solutions for food services, including college dining and coffee shops. The company addresses the increasing demand for diverse plant milk options, such as oat milk, soymilk, and chocolate pea milk, by offering innovative dispensers that streamline operations and minimize packaging waste. Uproot's products are designed for health-conscious consumers and aim to lower greenhouse gas emissions and water usage compared to traditional dairy and existing plant milk alternatives. By focusing on sustainability and convenience, Uproot supports food service providers in meeting the evolving preferences of their customers.

Neema Food

Non Equity Assistance in 2019
Neema Food produces delicious Central African condiments and sauces. The company's sauces are made from their family recipe from DRCongo going back to 3 generations. Neema Food was established in 2015 in London, England.

Clean Crop Technologies

Non Equity Assistance in 2019
Clean Crop Technologies, based in Haydenville, Massachusetts, specializes in food processing solutions aimed at enhancing food safety and reducing food waste. The company has developed a proprietary technology known as 'Clean Current,' which utilizes cold plasma generated from electricity and air to eliminate molds, toxins, and pests from grains and nuts. This method not only improves crop yields but also extends the shelf life of perishable foods without compromising their quality. Clean Crop's innovative approach is designed to be energy efficient and scalable, making it effective against a wide range of contaminants while leaving no harmful residues. Founded in 2020, Clean Crop Technologies is committed to addressing the challenges of food safety and waste in agriculture.

Buppy Pets

Non Equity Assistance in 2019
Buppy Pets is a manufacturer of dog food. They also deliver their products. They produce their products using dried rosemary, dried oregano, and ground cinnamon.

Smoodi

Non Equity Assistance in 2019
Smoodi specializes in the development of an automated smoothie machine that offers a convenient way for individuals to prepare fresh and customized smoothies without the hassle of clean-up. This innovative machine features a touchscreen interface, allowing users to select from various pre-programmed recipes or create their own unique blends. In addition to the machine, Smoodi provides pre-packed, all-natural frozen smoothie cups stored in a separate freezer unit. This combination of products enables convenience store owners to meet the growing consumer demand for fresh, healthy nutrition, making it an appealing option for those looking to offer premium, on-demand smoothies.

FOODUNITE

Non Equity Assistance in 2019
FoodUnite is a food and beverage company that provides customers with tasty food.

Fresh Strips

Grant in 2018
Fresh Strips is a smart packaging company that specializes in providing cost-effective solutions to ensure the safety of heat-sensitive food products. The company offers a unique product in the form of a plastic sticker attached to food packaging. This sticker changes color in response to heat exposure, allowing consumers to easily assess whether the food is safe for consumption. By informing consumers about the safety and quality of their food, Fresh Strips addresses a critical need in the food industry, enhancing consumer confidence and reducing food waste.

BlueTrace

Non Equity Assistance in 2018
BlueTrace provides a traceability solution tailored for the seafood industry, specifically focusing on shellfish growers, wholesalers, distributors, and dealers. The company's technology enables organizations of all sizes to enhance their operational efficiency, comply with industry regulations, and manage inventory effectively. By offering a unique tagging and compliance system, BlueTrace helps shellfish farmers meet increasing customer demands while also reducing animal mortality rates and minimizing labor costs. This comprehensive approach supports the optimization of various activities within the seafood supply chain, ensuring that stakeholders can navigate the complexities of the industry with greater ease.

GrubTubs

Grant in 2018
GrubTubs Inc. is an innovative company based in Austin, Texas, focused on creating sustainable animal feed for local family farms. Founded in 2016, it addresses food waste by collecting leftover food from restaurants and repurposing it into chicken feed. In addition to food collection, GrubTubs also cultivates insects that serve as a nutritious food source for chickens, pigs, and fish. By facilitating this process, GrubTubs not only helps restaurants manage and reduce food waste but also strengthens the connection between communities and local agriculture.

Food For All

Non Equity Assistance in 2018
Food for All Technologies, Inc., established in 2016 and headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, operates a mobile application that connects users with surplus, unsold food from local restaurants and cafes. This service helps reduce food waste, making quality meals more affordable for consumers, while enabling restaurants to recoup some value from their leftover inventory. The company, which also has international locations, was founded following a collaboration with Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and has received support from over 650 backers through a Kickstarter campaign.

Natured

Non Equity Assistance in 2018
Foodstack is a wholesale food and beverage online food delivery platform. They offer customizing products and pricing for each customer, setting up ordering windows, and enabling standing, and repeat orders, among other things.

ELEIS FARM

Non Equity Assistance in 2018
Eleis Farm is to cultivate, process and export palm oil.

ApreX Biotech

Non Equity Assistance in 2018
ApreX Biotech specializes in the development of innovative organ-on-chip systems aimed at transforming pharmaceutical development and personalized medicine. By employing advanced origami folding techniques, the company converts simple, two-dimensional patterns into sophisticated three-dimensional tissue architectures. This technology facilitates the creation of products across various sectors, including pharmaceuticals, chemicals, food, and cosmetics. ApreX Biotech's systems are designed to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of product development, ultimately supporting the advancement of personalized medical solutions.

LEAF Shellfish

Non Equity Assistance in 2018
LEAF Shellfish specializes in high pressure processing (HPP) technology to produce sustainable shellfish products in Southern New England. By utilizing both undervalued and resurgent local fisheries, the company enhances the culinary potential of shellfish that are sustainably caught, landed, and processed in the region. LEAF's innovative approach not only preserves the natural flavor of seafood but also extends its shelf life and storage capabilities, resulting in higher quality and yield compared to traditional high-heat methods. This commitment to sustainability and quality contributes positively to the local fishing industry and promotes the consumption of local seafood.

Canomiks

Non Equity Assistance in 2018
Canomiks operates a genomics and artificial intelligence-based technology platform that focuses on testing and certifying the biological efficacy and safety of ingredients and formulations. Its services cater to the functional food and beverage, dietary supplement, and skincare industries, allowing companies to develop safe and effective products efficiently. By leveraging omics science, data analytics, machine learning, and bioinformatics, Canomiks streamlines the validation process for product efficacy, ultimately enabling clients to enhance product quality while reducing development time and costs. The company's long-term vision is to actualize the concept of food as medicine.

Labby

Non Equity Assistance in 2018
Labby Inc. is a technology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, founded in 2017. It specializes in developing a smartphone-based wireless optical spectrometer for testing milk composition, primarily serving farmers and dairy processors. The company's AI-driven cloud platform translates raw optical data into actionable insights for individual animals and entire herds, facilitating rapid mastitis detection and timely intervention. In addition to its primary focus on dairy, Labby's technology has applications in the beer and wine production industry, offering tools for counterfeit detection, quality control, and serving as a virtual brewmate for homebrewers. The platform also aids in monitoring spoilage along the supply chain, detecting adulterants and contamination, and tracking harvest cycles while providing meteorological data mapping for farm-level analytics.

Intello Labs

Non Equity Assistance in 2018
Intello Labs specializes in utilizing image recognition and machine learning technologies to assess the quality of agricultural crops. The company has developed an analytics platform that employs AI, including computer vision and deep learning, to provide automated solutions for the food commodities sector. By offering smartphone applications that facilitate grading and quality monitoring of agricultural products, Intello Labs enables growers, traders, retailers, and food service companies to achieve greater transparency and standardization in quality assessment. This approach aims to minimize value risk and reduce wastage within agricultural supply chains.

Selina Wamucii

Non Equity Assistance in 2018
Selina Wamucii facilitates the buying and importing of food and agricultural products from Africa, connecting businesses globally with local producers. The company collaborates with cooperatives, farmers' groups, and agro-processors to create a trustworthy platform for transactions between buyers and family farmers, including smallholders and fishing communities. By streamlining agricultural value chains, Selina Wamucii reduces inefficiencies, thereby minimizing food wastage and enhancing farmers' incomes. The platform offers a wide variety of products, including fruits, vegetables, dairy, fish, meat, oils, grains, and spices, making it easier for buyers to source quality produce directly from farmers. This approach not only supports local economies but also ensures that fresh produce reaches the market efficiently, even for farmers with limited access to technology.

Griyum

Grant in 2017
Griyum specializes in the production and commercialization of edible cricket flour, which is high in protein and offers a low-cost alternative for enhancing the nutritional value of processed foods. Recognizing the health challenges faced by many in Mexico, where a significant portion of the population is at risk of obesity and diabetes, Griyum aims to provide a sustainable solution through its innovative product. The company establishes a value chain that supports micro-producers by supplying them with technology packages to cultivate crickets. Griyum purchases the crickets from these producers, transforms them into flour, and supplies this nutritious ingredient to enhance various food products, thereby promoting healthier eating habits.

Clevot

Grant in 2017
Clevot specializes in developing advanced cleaning technology tailored for the food processing industry. Their innovative solutions enhance the efficiency of industrial cleaning processes, allowing manufacturers to perform continuous dry cleaning and sanitizing during production. This technology not only optimizes resource usage but also helps businesses save water and minimize waste, addressing the environmental impact associated with traditional cleaning methods. Through these advancements, Clevot aims to improve cleaning efficacy while promoting sustainable practices within the industrial sector.

Kulisha

Grant in 2017
Kulisha partners with food and beverage companies to convert organic waste into sustainable insect protein for animal feed. By utilizing organic waste from local restaurants and hotels, the company processes this material to cultivate black soldier fly larvae, which are then converted into a high-protein meal. This innovative approach addresses two significant issues: it reduces landfill waste and provides a sustainable alternative to fishmeal, which is increasingly scarce due to overfishing in ocean ecosystems. Kulisha's operations not only contribute to waste reduction but also support the agricultural industry by offering a cost-effective, environmentally friendly protein source for animal feeds.

SensoGenic

Grant in 2017
SensoGenic, Inc. develops innovative diagnostic biosensors specifically designed to detect food allergens. Founded in 2016 and based in Ness Ziona, Israel, the company offers portable, handheld analyzers that connect to a mobile application, allowing users to identify allergens without physical contact. This technology provides critical information for individuals with food allergies, enabling them to dine out safely and avoid allergic reactions. SensoGenic emphasizes understanding user needs to enhance the functionality and usability of its products, positioning itself as a leader in allergen detection solutions.

MachIQ Software

Grant in 2016
Facterra specializes in collaborative performance management software tailored for the manufacturing industry, focusing on industrial after-sales services and asset management. The company offers a cloud-based platform that integrates asset management, maintenance, and energy and water management functions. This user-friendly system enables manufacturing businesses to mobilize staff across maintenance, quality, and production teams, facilitating cross-functional initiatives. By connecting various data sources, including ERP systems and automation tools, Facterra enhances operational efficiency. Its solutions are designed to optimize asset performance and maintenance activities, thus supporting both machine builders and producers in the food and beverage sector.

Nimblr

Grant in 2016
Nimblr is an IoT based knowledge network that brings best practices to the food processing industry in improving global food security.Food processors worldwide struggle to maintain quality, yield and costs due to variation in inputs, plant health or operator skills. nimblr combines the power of IoT, sensors and predictive models to address these pains. They minimise process risks for customers by constantly adapting their plant operations to the gains in network knowledge. Processors get real-time feedback on key parameters. nimblr improves accuracy of the model through periodic validation and makes processing nimble.

PantryAce

Grant in 2016
PantryAce is a business platform designed to enhance productivity in professional kitchens. It provides chefs with standardized food labels that include essential information such as opening dates, default expiry dates, and allergen details, ensuring compliance with food safety regulations and reducing the risk of human error. Additionally, PantryAce offers fast digital stocktaking capabilities, allowing restaurant owners and chefs to efficiently manage their inventory. The platform also facilitates access to cloud-based food data analysis, enabling users to make informed decisions regarding their kitchen operations.

MayoreoTotal.com

Grant in 2016
MayoreoTotal.com is an innovative online grocery platform that aims to transform the wholesale grocery market in Mexico, valued at approximately 20 billion USD. The company focuses on serving corporates, retail stores, and restaurants by providing a web-based shopping solution that offers a diverse range of grocery products at competitive prices. By facilitating a shift from traditional offline purchasing to a streamlined online experience, MayoreoTotal.com enables users to buy groceries quickly and efficiently, enhancing convenience and accessibility in the wholesale distribution channel.

Rqmicro

Non Equity Assistance in 2016
Rqmicro is a Swiss company based in Zurich that specializes in pathogen separation and detection technology. Founded in 2013, it focuses on providing rapid microbial assessments for water and food safety. The company has developed proprietary reagents and instruments that deliver accurate results in less than one hour, allowing for quick detection of dangerous water and foodborne pathogens. This technology enables clients to obtain quantitative data on contamination levels, thereby enhancing overall safety in food and water supplies.

Inspecto Solutions

Non Equity Assistance in 2016
Inspecto Solutions Ltd specializes in developing a portable nanoscale scanner designed to detect food contaminants quickly and cost-effectively. Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Israel, the company provides an application that serves a wide range of stakeholders in the food industry, including farmers, producers, suppliers, buyers, retailers, and quality assurers. Inspecto's technology overcomes the limitations of traditional laboratory methods, allowing users to identify contaminants in minutes rather than relying on lengthy sampling processes. The solution offers real-time analysis of various parameters and integrates cloud storage with blockchain technology to ensure data safety and enhance traceability. By enabling large volumes of scans, Inspecto Solutions aims to improve business performance through effective quality assurance and supply chain management.

FoPo Food Powder

Grant in 2015
FoPo extends food shelf life from 2 weeks to 2 years by freeze drying & turning it into powder, while reducing food waste & helping farmers. In FoPo, they collect ugly fruits & vegetables before expiry from groceries & farms, freeze dry them, & turn them into food powder to preserve their nutrients, prolong shelf life, & maximize logistics. It can be used for smoothies, soups, fruit shakes, & more. The product will be sold via online, supermarkets, humanitarian mission agencies & food companies. With low price, reduced food waste & support for local businesses & farmers, FoPo creates value from the inefficiency in the food system.

Smart Validation Service

Grant in 2015
Dry foods, such as nuts and cereals, have been associated with recalls costing up to $ 30 Mio per incident, caused by bacteria contamination. Processors are now required to prove they reduce harmful bacteria during their process which involves tedious procedures. They offer a process monitoring service which reduces the risk of recalls, ensures regulatory compliance, gives real-time overview of bacteria reduction and unlock the saving potential of minimum $ 100 K/line/year.

Iron Goat

Grant in 2015
Iron Goat, based in Fairfax, Virginia, specializes in the automated production of pelleted and cubed products derived from hay and other grassy crops. The company employs mobile robots that operate without fuel to facilitate the manufacturing process, resulting in reduced costs for livestock feed and grass pellet fuel compared to traditional haying methods. By utilizing innovative in-field techniques, Iron Goat aims to provide farmers with more affordable and efficient feed solutions.

Oto Beverages

Grant in 2014
Oto Beverages is a company focused on providing alternative hydration solutions to traditional bottled water. It has developed a reusable beverage-making bottle that incorporates healthy flavor pods, allowing consumers to quickly create fresh drinks while on-the-go. This innovative product eliminates the need for messy flavor packets, as the flavor pods are conveniently stored within the bottle. By enabling users to mix their beverages using locally sourced water, Oto promotes a healthier lifestyle while also reducing waste, making it easier for individuals to make environmentally conscious choices.

MoringaConnect

Grant in 2014
They are changing the story of the smallholder farmer starting with Moringa, known worldwide as “the miracle tree” for its highly nutritional leaves. They take the forgotten part --the seeds-- and process them into an oil with unmatched cosmetic benefits for hair and skin care and a press meal for animal feed and water purification. They manage the entire supply chain- training, micro-credit, miniaturized value-added processing, and marketing to a global audience.

SproutsIO

Grant in 2014
SproutsIO, Inc. designs and manufactures an automated indoor gardening system that allows individuals to cultivate fresh fruits and vegetables on demand. Established in 2013 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company aims to empower consumers by shifting their role in the food supply chain. The SproutsIO smart microgarden incorporates machine learning technology and proprietary growing profiles to optimize plant growth while providing a user-friendly experience through its mobile application, SproutsIOGrow. This app enables users to control their garden remotely, offering real-time sensor reports and camera feeds. The system is designed to function year-round without soil and can adapt to various living environments, making it accessible for people regardless of their gardening experience or local climate. By employing innovative hybrid hydroculture technology, SproutsIO facilitates personal farming, enabling customers to grow their own produce efficiently and sustainably.

KnipBio

Grant in 2014
KnipBio, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Lowell, Massachusetts, established in 2013. It focuses on developing sustainable and responsible feed solutions for the aquaculture industry, primarily through its innovative product, KnipBio Meal (KBM). This product serves as a protein-rich replacement for traditional fishmeal, combining the benefits of high-quality protein and carotenoids in a single, effective formulation. KnipBio employs naturally occurring microbe strains that convert abundant and low-cost feedstocks, such as ethanol and methanol, into nutritious single-cell protein. By addressing the challenges of animal nutrition, KnipBio aims to provide livestock owners with affordable and efficient feed alternatives, contributing to the evolution of sustainable aquaculture practices.

Flatev

Seed Round in 2014
Flatev AG is a company that specializes in manufacturing tortilla makers and dough pods designed for home and commercial use. The innovative machine created by Flatev can prepare fresh tortillas and various flatbreads, such as rotis and chapattis, in under a minute with the touch of a button. Utilizing a pod system akin to that of a coffee maker, the machine transforms capsules of dough into freshly baked bread that rivals the taste of handmade products. Flatev offers a variety of dough pods, including corn, blue corn, and flour options, catering to diverse culinary preferences. The company plans to distribute its machines through department and kitchen stores, as well as wholesale clubs, while the dough pods will be available in grocery stores. Founded in 2012, Flatev is headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland, with additional offices in New Jersey and New York.

Lab Automate Technologies

Grant in 2012
Lab Automate Technologies specializes in providing automation solutions tailored for the biotech, pharmaceutical, food, chemical, and environmental control industries. The company focuses on designing and developing cost-effective systems that enhance the efficiency and reliability of laboratory and manufacturing processes. By leveraging advanced technology, Lab Automate Technologies offers precision powder dispensing solutions that streamline product development and reduce the overall lifecycle of testing and manufacturing. This enables clients to improve their competitive edge in global markets.

Arbsource

Grant in 2012
Arbsource specializes in wastewater treatment systems tailored for the food and beverage industry. The company focuses on transforming wastewater into a valuable resource by employing microbial electrochemical cell technologies. This innovative approach allows food and beverage companies to effectively reduce their water and power expenses. By providing efficient wastewater treatment services, Arbsource aims to address the high costs associated with water usage and energy consumption in this sector.

Cerahelix

Grant in 2011
Cerahelix, Inc. is a company based in Orono, Maine, that specializes in the design and manufacture of ceramic membrane filters for a variety of applications, including water purification, resource recycling, and biomass processing. Founded in 2011, Cerahelix develops bio-derived products utilizing patented DNA template technology to create sub-nanometer pores in ceramic membranes. This innovative approach allows for the effective filtration of minute particles, enabling the separation of salts, metal ions, and other impurities at the molecular level. The company offers a range of products, including single-channel elements for laboratory and small pilot studies, multi-channel elements for commercial applications, and filter element housings. Additionally, Cerahelix provides laboratory test systems for research and development purposes. Its products serve multiple industries, including food and beverage, mining, pharmaceuticals, and waste-to-energy.

Down to Earth Waste Solutions

Grant in 2011
Down to Earth Waste Solutions turns food waste into fertilizer. They offer organic waste collection services for small to medium businesses, as well as value-add organic soil production solutions for composting/processing operations.
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