The Bilbao HUB of the Food Accelerator Network kicks-off its 2025 edition
10 startups that are focusing on finding sustainable solutions for food packaging will be joining the programme during the next months. The Kick-off is taking place in Bilbao with key corporates.
In a context where sustainability is no longer an option, but a regulatory and market requirement, the packaging industry faces unprecedented challenges and opportunities. Currently, only around 40% of plastic waste in the European Union is recycled. Faced with this reality, the EU has launched ambitious initiatives such as the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) and the Waste Framework Directive, which call for significantly reducing packaging waste, improving recyclability and phasing out single-use plastics.
EIT Food Accelerator Network drives startups that are developing disruptive solutions to respond to these demands and transform the way we understand food packaging. These innovations not only enable companies to adapt to the new European regulations, but also open the door to new, more sustainable and efficient business models.
Sustainable packaging innovation: EIT Food Accelerator Network startups lead the way to a circular future
Designed to drive growth, credibility, exposure and recognition, the EIT Food Accelerator Network programme helps high-impact technology startups in the agrifood sector accelerate their transition from emerging stage to investment-ready, market-ready company.
The EIT's FAN program has six sites in Europe, each specializing in an agri-food field. In the coming months, the Bilbao site will support the companies B-Zero, Agreenet, Biomyc, Carbon Cell, Coffeefrom, Grinove Materials, Inoqo, One Good Thing (OGT), Searo Labs and Moree.
Click Read more to discover the 10 selected startups!
This is a key moment full of opportunities for sustainable packaging solutions. With the entry into force of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), innovation is at the heart of industry development, and startups are leading the way.
Whats next for them
The hub in Spain is supported by top-level firms such as Hijos de Rivera, Cargill and Unilever. There are also several research centers that support the startups to validate their technologies, among them: CSIC-IATA, IPN, Fraunhofer, Itene and Ainia. In addition, this program is part of the food entrepreneurship strategy of the Basque Government and the Provincial Council of Bizkaia, which are participating in its development.
Over the next few months, these innovative startups will accelerate their growth over the next four months in order to successfully enter the market. Between May and October they will have access to master classes, tutorials and will also receive support to develop their technologies and products. This phase ends with a presentation by the startups, in pitch format, to validate their technologies. From there, they will be able to make the leap to major events and trade fairs in the sector to make themselves known.
Since 2018, EIT FAN has supported 348 startups across Europe by helping them grow, preparing them to manage investments and enter the market. Participants benefit from a practical program, expert workshops and exclusive access to major industry events.
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