NEW YORK — Big Idea Ventures and Mars Petcare announced the launch of the Next Generation Pet Food Program. Startups looking to innovate in the sustainable pet food space are invited to apply to participate in the program, which aims to drive pet food innovation and engage with startups to develop more sustainable solutions.
The pilot initiative, in collaboration with AAK and Bühler, is seeking startups working on sustainable protein and fat that can support pathways to reducing carbon emissions in pet food production. This includes novel ingredients and trailblazing processing technologies, such as upcycling food waste and innovative extraction methods.
“This initiative aims to highlight the exciting opportunity for developing sustainable pet food products. It represents a significant step forward in fostering innovative, eco-friendly solutions within the pet food industry,” said Andrew D. Ive, founder and managing general partner of Big Idea Ventures.
Selected startups will present their innovations at the Singapore International AgriFood Week in November.
Applicants will be selected based on their innovative solutions, production volume capability, potential to reduce the carbon footprint of pet food products, and willingness to collaborate with partners. While APAC-based startups are preferred, companies from all geographies are encouraged to apply.
“Ensuring a sustainable source of pet nutrition requires new ideas, technologies and innovative practices. Collaborative innovation between industry leaders like Mars Petcare and Big Idea Ventures attracts startups from both within and beyond the pet care sector, supporting them in scaling their solutions to enhance the sustainability of pet nutrition,” said Ian Roberts, chief technical officer at Bühler. “We are eager to see the innovative solutions that will emerge from this program.”.
Elise, Malandain, vice president of R&D at Mars Petcare, added, “At Mars Petcare, our purpose is A BETTER WORLD FOR PETS. This program aligns perfectly with our commitment to sustainability and innovation, and we are excited to collaborate with startups that share our vision.”
Interested startups can apply until early September. Learn more about the Next Generation Pet Food Program.
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