FoodTech & AgriTech Insights

OIW, founded in 2004 by Oslo Business Region, has become a key event in the global startup ecosystem. Its mission is to support Oslo’s growing startups and connect them with public organizations. Celebrating 20 years in 2023, OIW now hosts over 70 events, attracting more than 16,000 attendees worldwide. “What started as a local initiative has grown into a global platform for innovation, collaboration, and sustainability,” an OIW representative shared. Key Highlights from Recent Editions of OIW Oslo Innovation Week fosters a strong sense of community and continuous collaboration. Notable companies like Kahoot!, Oda, No Isolation, and Strise have participated in OIW, contributing to the ecosystem. “Seeing startups that once pitched their ideas now hosting their events is a true testament to the power of this community,” said the OIW team. This growing collaboration has positioned OIW as a platform for emerging leaders and problem-solvers. Themes Driving OIW Each year, Oslo Innovation Week adopts a theme aligned with global innovation trends. The 2024 theme, “Pioneers,” celebrates individuals and organizations pushing the boundaries of innovation. “We engage with the ecosystem daily to ensure our themes resonate with the startup and innovation community. Climate innovation and sustainability have always been core,” an OIW organizer explained. This focus on addressing climate change has been a consistent driver behind OIW’s success. A Global and Industry-Agnostic Event Oslo Innovation Week attracts diverse participants, including startup founders, investors, and public leaders. OIW is industry-agnostic, with events spanning sectors from health and life science research to the blue economy to ClimateTech and SportsTech. 30% of attendees come from outside Norway, reflecting OIW’s growing global presence. “It’s important to engage with international participants to expand Oslo’s reach beyond the Norwegian bubble,” the OIW team noted. International Collaboration and Global Outreach Managed by the Oslo Business Region, Oslo Innovation Week actively engages with the international innovation community. This involves collaboration with embassies, investors, and Nordic neighbors, and attending events in the UK, Germany, and the US to attract talent and investment to Oslo. “This year, we will welcome back a team from Hokkaido, Japan to the program, hosting an event to support initiatives for female entrepreneurship in the Hokkaido prefecture,” an organizer shared. OIW’s international collaborations continue to strengthen its global reputation. Commitment to Sustainability and Diversity Sustainability is central to OIW, with every event supporting at least one United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG). The event has implemented practices like the Zero Waste Takeaway project to reduce waste,” As an umbrella event, we collaborate with over 200 organizers to create sustainable events, promoting vegetarian meals, environmental impact reduction, and providing the City of Oslo’s Climate and Environment Guide for guidance. Additionally, OIW emphasizes diversity and inclusion, requiring gender balance among speakers and hosting DEI workshops, “Last year 52% of all speakers were female. This year, we’ve added a workshop on diversity and inclusion for all event organizers by Diversify, which organizes the  Diversify Nordic Summit, emphasizing the importance of DEI in growing successful companies.” “Our goal is to ensure that every attendee finds value in the event while promoting sustainable and inclusive practices,” stated an organizer. OIW continues to evolve, connecting global innovators with Nordic pioneers and expanding its impact. For more information on Oslo Innovation Week : ➡️ Visit the Oslo Innovation Week program for details on events. ➡️ Sign up for the Oslo Innovation Week newsletter to learn about becoming an OIW event organizer.

Founded in 2015 by Chiara Rota, My Cooking Box is an Italian startup that blends the rich heritage of Italian cuisine with the convenience of modern meal kits. Inspired by foreign visitors’ desire to recreate Italian dishes at home, the startup developed meal kits that allow anyone, regardless of their cooking experience, to easily prepare iconic Italian meals. The Unique Offering: My Cooking Box My Cooking Box is not just another meal kit; it’s a carefully curated experience. Each box contains all the ingredients, perfectly portioned and 100% Made in Italy, to cook a traditional Italian dish. The recipes, crafted by renowned chefs, are designed to be easy to follow, ensuring that anyone can enjoy the rich culinary heritage of Italy in their kitchen. “Our mission is to offer a product that allows people to appreciate the culinary richness of Italy,” says the team. The long shelf-life of the ingredients also adds a practical element, making it convenient for consumers to enjoy a gourmet meal whenever they choose. A Young, Dynamic Team from Bergamo The team behind My Cooking Box operates from Bergamo, a picturesque city near Milan. This young, driven group of professionals is passionate about spreading the flavors of Italy across the globe. Their energy and commitment are key to the brand’s success, as they work tirelessly to innovate and expand the reach of their product. “We want to make a difference and bring our brand to succeed worldwide,” the team explains, showcasing their ambition and dedication. Expanding Horizons: Revenue Models and Market Reach The company’s revenue model is diversified across B2B and B2C channels. Direct-to-consumer sales are driven through its proprietary e-commerce platform and major online marketplaces. On the B2B side, it focuses on partnerships with international supermarket chains and importers, particularly in North America, its largest market. “We are looking to grow the brand and increase awareness,” the team notes, as it sets its sights on expanding into new markets. A Launchpad for Growth for Italian Meal Kit My Cooking Box sees the SIAL Startup Village event as a crucial opportunity to elevate its brand. They aim to connect with key players in the European and U.S. supermarket sectors, securing partnerships that will help them scale. “We expect to gain solid leads from European and U.S. supermarket chains,” the team says, emphasizing the importance of this event in their growth strategy. Showcase Your Brand at SIAL Paris 2024: Fill Out Our Exhibitor Form Today!

Are you passionate about avocados but concerned about food waste? Soilmates turn imperfect avocados into premium, eco-friendly avocado oil, offering a delicious solution to the problem of food waste. By supporting Soilmates, you contribute to reducing food waste while enjoying high-quality avocado oil. The Economic Impact of Food Waste: A $1 Trillion Global Crisis Food waste is a pressing global issue. The UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reports that about 1.3 billion tons of food are wasted annually. Remarkably, around 40% of produce is discarded due to cosmetic imperfections or spoilage. This waste not only harms the environment but also results in economic losses estimated at $1 trillion per year by the World Bank. Addressing these inefficiencies in the food supply chain is crucial. Soilmates: Revolutionizing Avocado Oil Production with Sustainability In 2021, Avocado enthusiast Dave Le Roux and sustainability advocate Sander Breedveld launched Soilmates in Berlin, with a dedication to creating high-quality avocado oil while actively combating food waste. They upcycle avocados rejected for their appearance, transforming them into a product that promotes environmental responsibility. “We tackle food waste by using ‘ugly’ avocados that are perfectly good for consumption,” the team explains. By offering these avocados a second chance, Soilmates supports a circular economy and demonstrates a commitment to sustainable practices. Avocado Oil: A Sustainable Choice Soilmates provides a unique alternative to traditional olive oil. Their avocado oil, available in major supermarkets throughout the Netherlands, combines convenience with environmental values. Unlike olive oil, Soilmates’ product is rich in flavor, has a high smoke point, and is packed with antioxidants. Their goal is to expand across the EU, making their sustainable avocado oil more widely available. A Launchpad for Growth Soilmates’ participation in SIAL Startup Village underscores their commitment to growth and industry leadership. This platform provides valuable opportunities to connect with potential investors and partners, advancing their mission to innovate within the food tech industry. Showcase Your Brand at SIAL Paris 2024: Fill Out Our Exhibitor Form Today!

LIXR redefined energy drinks with natural ingredients to create a healthier energy drink alternative. The story of LIXR LIXR, founded in 2023 by Hristo Vatashki, an expert in sales and administration management, and his brother, the renowned Bulgarian musician Ventsislav Chanov, who has a strong marketing background, is on a mission to revolutionize the energy drink industry. Backed by a small but dedicated team of three, LIXR offers a healthier and more sustainable alternative. Crafted with a unique blend of natural ingredients, the company provides a sustained energy boost without the harmful additives found in traditional energy drinks. A Healthier Energy Drink Alternative Driven by a desire for a healthier lifestyle, the company was born from the need for a natural and effective energy source. “Each LIXR drink contains 115mg of natural caffeine and 150mg of natural L-Theanine, extracted from guarana and green matcha tea,” explains Hristo, “The synergistic effect of these ingredients is gradually released, helping you maintain high levels of focus and productivity for up to 6 hours.” LIXR caters to a diverse range of high-performance individuals, including entrepreneurs, athletes, students, and professionals. Competing and Expanding LIXR differentiates itself from competitors by prioritizing natural ingredients and eliminating added sugars and sweeteners. This commitment to transparency and superior taste has allowed the company to build early traction in the Bulgarian market. To further expand its reach and introduce LIXR to a global audience, the company is actively seeking strategic partnerships and investments through the platform SIAL Startup Village. Showcase Your Brand at SIAL Paris 2024: Fill Out Our Exhibitor Form Today!

Moderato, a French startup founded in 2020, is revolutionizing the wine industry with its premium alcohol-free wines. Based in Paris and comprised of a passionate team of ten, Moderato aims to provide a high-quality alternative to traditional wine. Their tagline, “French wine is having its revolution, and it’s alcohol-free,” reflects their commitment to offering a new way to enjoy wine that aligns with modern lifestyle choices. Why ‘Moderato’? The name “Moderato” was chosen for its universal appeal and symbolic meaning. It signifies the perfect balance between enjoyment and moderation. Co-founders Fabien Marchand-Cassagne and Sebastien Thomas explain, “Moderato evokes a sense of striking the right balance.” This principle guides their mission to offer exceptional alcohol-free wine without compromising taste. The Founders’ Vision of Premium Alcohol-free Wines Fabien and Seb, the founders of Moderato, met through a mutual friend who saw their potential for collaboration. They combined their expertise to create a project that fulfills their ambitions and aims to impact society positively. Their innovative approach to wine reflects their passion and commitment to progress. Standing Out in the Wine Market Moderato distinguishes itself in a competitive market among numerous players by focusing on excellence in dealcoholized French wine. “We have a story and brand that are both unique and universal,” says the team. Their dedication to producing high-quality wines from fine French terroirs and a strong emphasis on brand identity and communication set them apart. Future Goals and Expansion Plans for 2024 Moderato has ambitious plans for 2024, including a turnover target of €2 million and expansion into Canadian and US markets. They also plan to launch a limited edition cuvée and continue their growth efforts. Fabien shares, “Our participation in SIAL Startup Village is a step towards increased visibility and traction from the Food & Beverage sectors across Europe and the world.” With clear goals and a robust strategy, Moderato is poised for an exciting year ahead. Showcase Your Brand at SIAL Paris 2024: Fill Out Our Exhibitor Form Today!

Véronique Steiner's journey in fintech reflects the sector's dynamic growth and her entrepreneurial spirit. Since joining J.P. Morgan, she has played a pivotal role in driving innovation and establishing J.P. Morgan's fintech, media, telecom, and payments services across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. With a commitment to innovation, diversity, and philanthropy, Steiner's leadership has been instrumental in navigating the complex fintech landscape, supporting clients with cutting-edge solutions, and fostering a robust fintech ecosystem.

Essento is on a mission to revolutionize the food industry by harnessing the power of insects. This innovative company produces various delicious and nutritious food products, all crafted using sustainably sourced insect protein. A Taste of the Future With a focus on taste and sustainability, Essento offers a variety of options to cater to different lifestyles. From hearty burgers and meatball alternatives to convenient protein shakes, bars, and snacks, there’s something for everyone. Their new sports line, designed and developed in Switzerland, promises to provide athletes with high-quality nutrition to fuel their performance. Why Insect protein? The decision to incorporate insect protein into their products was driven by a deep concern for the environment and a desire to find sustainable solutions to global food challenges. ” After the release of the FAO report in 2013 with the ecological and sanitary potential of edible insects, it was clear that we needed to bring this protein source to the European market,” Christian Bärtsch, the CEO&Founder said. A Team of Passionate Innovators in insect protein Essento’s team is a diverse quartet comprising individuals with expertise in economics, marketing, animal welfare, food science, and biology. Their combined knowledge and passion fuel the company’s commitment to crafting exceptional products that are delicious and planet-friendly. Targeting a Conscious Consumer Essento’s target audience is young, urban, and environmentally conscious individuals who seek high-quality, sustainable food options. By offering a wide range of products and building a strong network of partners, the company aims to differentiate itself from competitors and become a leading player in the insect protein market. Building a Sustainable Future Boasting a robust product line and a burgeoning customer base, Essento is primed for substantial expansion in 2024. The company has successfully secured listings for 6 SKUs in over 200 stores operated by Coop, Switzerland’s retail behemoth. Moreover, Coop’s online platform has facilitated the distribution of Essento products across the EU, particularly emphasizing the German market. Essento’s participation in the SIAL Startup Village demonstrates its ambition to reach a wider audience and establish partnerships with major European retailers. The goal for this year is to grow their business and increase the number of outlets and sales partners in Germany and Switzerland. Showcase Your Brand at SIAL Paris 2024: Fill Out Our Exhibitor Form Today!

Julie Ranty, former Managing Director of VivaTech, shares her journey from the Tech event world to founding Pollen, an innovative education platform. Discover her insights on scaling events, embracing AI, and the importance of continuous learning.

OLALA!, a young and vibrant company founded in France in 2021, is pioneering the world of 100% plant-based seafood alternatives. Driven by the urgent need for sustainable food solutions, they offer a delicious and innovative range of 6 products, including plant-based smoked salmon, salmon flakes, raw salmon and tuna, tuna crumbles, and tarama. All their products are crafted with natural-origin ingredients, boasting a taste that rivals the real deal. More Than Just OLALA! – It’s Scrumptious! “We believe plant-based food shouldn’t be a compromise on flavor,” says their team, a passionate mix of food enthusiasts, researchers, and chefs. We’ve spent 18 months perfecting our recipes to ensure an unparalleled taste experience. Produced in Boulogne-sur-Mer, France, near some of the country’s largest fishing ports, we are strategically positioned to understand the industry and its impact. Why “OLALA!”? This memorable name reflects our French roots and perfectly captures the delightful surprise their products evoke. “It’s a universally recognized expression of wonder – exactly the reaction we aim for when people experience OLALA! for the first time, “Simon Ferniot, the CEO & Co-Founder, explained. Why Plant-Based Seafood? Overfishing and climate change pose a serious threat to our oceans. By offering a delicious and sustainable alternative, they empower consumers to make a positive impact with every bite. “If we don’t radically reduce overfishing, there won’t be any fish left in the ocean by 2050,” they said. Their products boast a significantly lower carbon footprint than traditional seafood, making them a win for your taste buds and the planet. A Global Mission with Local Roots “Our team of 23, including 7 specialized food engineers, operates across multiple locations in France—from state-of-the-art production facilities to R&D labs in Paris, and an export team based in Amsterdam. This international presence allows us to cater to a global audience while maintaining a strong connection to our French heritage.” the team said. Who We Serve OLALA! primarily targets the food service industry and the B2B sector, both in France and internationally. They partner with distributors and restaurateurs seeking to diversify their menus with innovative and sustainable plant-based options. Their end consumers include everyone from flexitarians and vegans to curious foodies who appreciate delicious and responsible food choices. Standing Out from the Tide While competitors exist in the plant-based seafood and meat space, their unwavering focus on taste sets us apart. They believe that deliciousness is key to driving long-term change, “Our meticulous recipe development, extensive taste testing, and collaboration with chefs ensure our products are not just good for you and the planet, but truly satisfying to eat,” the team said. Making Waves: Traction and Recognition Since launching in May 2023, OLALA! has gained the trust of key players in the French market. They collaborate with distributors (Vegetal Food, PrevoGel, Foodex, Pomona) and restaurant chains (EXKI, Google, Bloom Sushi, Land&Monkeys), with their first retail presence at Kumo. Their reach extends to other European countries like the Netherlands, Germany, and Israel, with the UK soon to follow. Positive media coverage, participation in trade shows, and a podcast series (“Un pavé dans la mer“) have further solidified their brand recognition. Why SIAL Startup Village? “Participating in SIAL Startup Village aligns perfectly with our commercial and marketing strategy, having seen the success of trade shows like Taste of Paris, we are eager to leverage SIAL’s vast network and media opportunities. ” the team said. They believe this participation will significantly enhance their visibility, open new business avenues, and solidify their presence in the market. Showcase Your Brand at SIAL Paris 2024: Fill Out Our Exhibitor Form Today!

As inflation fuels the private label surge in Europe, retailers and wholesalers struggle to find reliable manufacturers for their store-brand products. Torg, a Berlin-based startup, solves this challenge by offering a simple and efficient private-label sourcing solution. Bringing 20+ years of global experience in leading companies across e-commerce, food tech, and consulting, Hans Kristian Furuseth, Ben Holdham, and Rita Kerbaj founded Torg to solve the inefficiencies of the sourcing process. The company provides a one-stop marketplace connecting food and beverage buyers with over 100,000 verified suppliers across the continent. AI-Powered Sourcing Revolution “Scaling up sourcing would have been impossible without machine learning,” Torg’s founders recently told Tech. eu. They leverage the power of machine learning to transform vast amounts of data into Europe’s most comprehensive and high-quality database for private label sourcing. This AI-powered approach allows buyers to quickly and easily find the perfect suppliers. Streamlined Workflow for Buyers Unlike some competitors, Torg goes beyond basic search functionality. Taking a cue from Furuseth’s experience in e-commerce, the platform allows buyers to request introductions, compare quotes directly, and even negotiate prices with suppliers – all in one place. Success Stories Speak Volumes The value proposition is clear. Lanch, a German food tech startup, struggled to find suitable manufacturers through traditional methods. “With Torg, we received 15 quotes from top producers in just 2 weeks, most below the target price,” said Lanch CEO Jonas Meynert. This efficiency allowed Lanch to forgo a dedicated sourcing team. Benefits for Suppliers Go Beyond Visibility Torg isn’t just about buyers. Suppliers benefit from increased online presence, faster payments, improved workflow management, and access to new sales opportunities. This win-win approach fuels Torg’s growth alongside the rising demand for private labels. Early Traction and Ambitious Goals Founded in 2021, Torg has secured €2.7 million in seed funding and boasts a growing user base. Their current revenue model utilizes connection credits for suppliers to connect directly with buyers. Looking ahead to 2024, the company aims to secure partnerships with major retailers and wholesalers while solidifying its revenue stream. Participation in SIAL Startup Village reflects their desire to connect with key industry players, gather valuable feedback, and refine their technology to serve the food & beverage sector better. Showcase Your Brand at SIAL Paris 2024: Fill Out Our Exhibitor Form Today!

Most people struggle to meet their daily water intake. Eau Exquise, a French water flavoring company, offers a convenient and sustainable solution to make water more enjoyable and encourage healthy hydration. Anne-Gaël Sadoun. Trained as a psychologist, the entrepreneur saw her mom struggle with drinking water, especially at the end of her life, because she didn’t find it enjoyable. This led her to start Eau Exquise in 2021, aiming to give water a new taste. Flavorful and Eco-Friendly Unlike sugary drinks or single-use flavored water bottles, Eau Exquise empowers you to personalize tap water with just a few drops. Their all-natural flavors, like yuzu & ginger or strawberry & raspberry, come in convenient 10ml and 27ml vials, flavoring up to 25 liters of water. This significantly reduces plastic waste compared to disposable options, making it a more sustainable solution. Plus, the company offers a range of organic flavors with surprising versatility, allowing you to enhance not just water but also hot drinks, sparkling water, and even yogurt. Flavored water on-the-go Ditch the sugary drinks and artificial sweeteners! Eau Exquise’s portable vials are perfect for refillable water bottles, aligning with the growing trend of eco-conscious consumers. Focus on Health and Transparency Unlike some competitors that add vitamins or artificial ingredients, Eau Exquise prioritizes natural flavors. Their sugar-free, sweetener-free, and artificial color-free drops are ideal for those seeking healthy hydration options, including diabetics. Health-conscious women above 50 who prioritize well-being and reducing sugar intake are a perfect target audience for Eau Exquise. Growth and International Expansion After a couple of years in the works, with a grant from Bpifrance and €200k in funding, the company launched in the summer of 2023 and now hopes to grow in France and beyond.  Its e-commerce site already supports orders from Belgium and Switzerland, and the company plans to use its participation in SIAL Startup Village to find partners for its international expansion, which is in line with its main goal for this year: To win new markets. Showcase Your Brand at SIAL Paris 2024: Fill Out Our Exhibitor Form Today!

With 70-90% of their scope 3 emissions in the fields, food chain companies increasingly need visibility over agricultural production to meet their sustainability objectives. On top of that imperative, the increasing volatility in agricultural production, mainly due to climate change, supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical tensions, is a major pain point for the entire food chain.  By providing continuous data on field health, crop rotations, and yield estimates, Hyperplan provides food chain players with the real-time information they need to make data-driven decisions that allow them to meet sustainability objectives, mitigate risks, and, ultimately, improve agricultural outcomes. Founded in 2021, Hyperplan has since grown to a team of 22 employees. The company offers a unique value proposition: “We don’t just provide data at the end of the season,” says the team. “Our real-time monitoring covers everything from field boundaries to crop production practices, giving you the insights you need to make informed decisions throughout the growing cycle.” Real-time monitoring goes beyond season-end data Hyperplan provides continuous insights into field boundaries, crop rotations, yield estimates, vegetation status, and production practices (e.g., tillage, cover cropping, crop rotations). This granular plot-level data empowers all stakeholders to make targeted interventions, optimize resource allocation, and implement sustainable practices such as cover crops, all with the help of Hyperplan. “It’s more than software,” the team says. “We help you revamp your processes to gain a competitive edge.” Beyond Food Brands While initially targeting coops and input companies, Hyperplan had its first successful deployment with a global food brand in 2024. The startup has now this experience, use case, and service for food brands, and is ready to roll out at scale. The company is also looking to extend its technology for crop classification and yield estimates beyond Europe. Strong Backing and Future Expansion Having raised €4.1 million in seed funding last year, Hyperplan is backed by Demeter via its Agrinnovation fund, as well as BNP Paribas Développement, Polytechnique Ventures, PeakBridge, Techmind and Unilis Agtech, a joint venture between Arvalis and Unigrains. Hyperplan’s supporters also include Aerospace Valley, ESA BIC Sud France, France 2030, La Ferme Digitale, La Vega Innova, and Microsoft’s Environmental Startup Accelerator. The latter also allowed Hyperplan to present its solution at Microsoft’s VivaTech booth earlier this year. Buoyed by the support of recognized investors who validate the relevance and potential impact of their solution in agriculture, Hyperplan will leverage its participation in SIAL Startup Village this year to secure new commercial contacts. Showcase Your Brand at SIAL Paris 2024: Fill Out Our Exhibitor Form Today!