Mondelēz International Inc. announced it has opened applications for CoLab Tech, an innovative accelerator program designed to help startup companies address key challenges in food technology and sustainability. CoLab Tech builds on the successful collaboration and partnership principles of the company’s SnackFutures’ CoLab program, launched in 2021, which provides snacking entrepreneurs and emerging brands with resources, networking opportunities and information to help them grow their businesses.
CoLab Tech seeks to find and collaborate with emerging food technology startups offering disruptive solutions and the potential to scale through the company’s core chocolate, biscuit and baked snacks businesses in three critical areas:
- Sustainability: Technologies that support regenerative agriculture, low carbon dairy ingredients and renewable/more efficient energy sources.
- Innovative Ingredients: Technologies that can deliver cleaner labels, lower carbon footprints, improved sensory experiences, and improved nutrition profiles.
- Process: Technologies that can increase manufacturing flexibility, enhance automation, and allow us to explore more modern, advanced heating and cooling options.
“We are thrilled to expand the CoLab program with a special focus on the food technology space,” Ian Noble, VP R&D - research, analytical and productivity, said in the announcement. “The launch of CoLab Tech demonstrates Mondelēz International’s commitment to more sustainable food and process technologies that push the boundaries of key technical challenges.”
The 12-week program includes in-person workshops, hands-on experiences and virtual curriculum sessions, along with 1:1 mentorship, as well as access to Mondelēz International experts and the company’s partners across the globe.
Applications for CoLab Tech are open now. The program will begin in autumn 2023. CoLab Tech is open to U.S. and European-based startups who have reached a minimum viable product in their development process and a minimum of five employees. Startups with diverse and minority board members will be a plus for selection.
For more information and to apply to the CoLab Tech program, visit www.applycolabtech.com.
