Big Idea Ventures, a protein alternative accelerator and venture fund, has received backing from the Bel Group as it looks to launch a European accelerator fund for alternative protein start-ups.
Founded in 2019, Big Idea Ventures has already launched accelerator funds in the US and in Singapore. The company stated in a release that it has received investment from ‘key players in the European market’, including the Bel Group and Buhler, in preparation for the launch of a European accelerator programme.
With an anticipated launch date of 2021, Big Idea Ventures claims that the Paris-based New Protein Fund will be dedicated to seed and early-stage investments in plant-based and cell-based food, ingredient and technology companies.
Andrew Ive, founder and general managing partner of Big Idea Ventures, said: “This investment by Bel – based in Paris and a major global player in single serving healthy snacking – will provide the New Protein Fund with more than additional capital.
“It is a strategic partnership to continue investing in and supporting the world’s most promising entrepreneurs who are actively creating the future of alternative proteins in Europe and beyond.”
Last year, Bel Group announced that it would launch a dedicated plant-based brand as it looks to meet the growing consumer demand for plant-based alternatives to traditional dairy products. According to the release, the Bel Group’s support for the New Protein Fund ‘demonstrates its desire to support start-ups developing solutions to meet changing nutritional needs and the challenges of sustainable food.’
Caroline Sorlin, general manager of Bel’s plant-based acceleration unit, added: “By identifying and supporting as early as possible the start-ups and projects involved in inventing tomorrow’s food, Bel is demonstrating its desire to make these solutions a reality and make them accessible to all.
“This partnership embodies our model: constantly innovating, co-constructing with all those who share our values and vision. Plant-based products now complement our milk-based offer: consumers are more and more looking for a plant-based offer and we aim to provide them with a quality proposition.”
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