Generate launches first open call for start-ups to shape ingredients’ future
The innovation hub Generate – born to drive the development of next-generation food ingredients under the guidance of the ingredient-tech platform also known as CSM Collective – has launched a global Open Call for start-ups.
The aim is to identify and select the next start-ups with breakthrough ingredient innovations that will join the Generate program, with the ambition of accelerating the evolution of the food ecosystem. Some of the start-ups that have already joined the Generate program are Ingrediome, PoLoPo and DairyX.
With its first Open Call, Generate is seeking disruptive ideas especially in relation to added-value proteins and technical ingredients, in areas such as clean label gelling agents and emulsifiers, natural origin preservatives, upcycled plant-based proteins and fibres, novel sensory and nutritional solutions for plant-based products, and liquid oil stabilisation. Generate will also welcome other transformative innovations that align with its purpose of enabling the evolution of the whole food ecosystem.
The Open Call will end on January 15th, 2025. Start-ups with a TRL (Technology Readiness Level) of 3 or higher, scalable solutions, and high-impact teams are encouraged to apply by submitting their investor presentation or company deck to the email address [email protected].
Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed between February and March 2025, in collaboration with the Open Innovation Partner URIKA Partners.
Selection criteria include the relevance of the innovation for applications in the Ingredient-Tech Platform’s most relevant categories, including bakery and fine pastry, ice cream and gelato, dairy and non-dairy, plant-based and gluten-free, and the possibility of scaling the innovation by leveraging the expertise and the market proximity of CSM Collective’s companies, including CSM Ingredients, HiFood, Vitalfood by Italcanditi, Rubicone and Comprital.
Generate offers 12-18-month programmes tailored to the needs of innovative entrepreneurs and foster collaboration between start-ups and established players. Selected start-ups will gain access to facilities, technical expertise, and commercial support, enabling them to scale their innovations and bring them to the market.
