The Recipe Behind Food's CVC

In the rapidly evolving world of food and beverages, major packaged-food corporations are increasingly turning towards in-house venture-capital arms to stay ahead of the curve. These corporate venture arms represent a strategic move to invest in innovative startups that align with emerging consumer trends, sustainable practices, and technological advancements. By backing young companies with the potential for high growth, these giants aim to tap into new markets, diversify their portfolios, and foster a culture of innovation within the food industry.

General Mills

General Mills has positioned itself at the forefront of corporate investment in the food sector with its Gold Medal Ventures, housing the 301 Inc and a new growth equity fund. Their strategic investments include Fera Pets, Urban Remedy, and PetPlate, showcasing a keen interest in pet health, plant-based offerings, and direct-to-consumer models.

Hershey

With C7 Ventures, Hershey demonstrates its commitment to innovation through strategic stakes in Fulfil, Blue Stripes, and Bonumose, expanding its footprint in the snack, confectionery, and functional ingredients sectors, emphasizing healthier and niche market explorations.

Tyson Foods

Tyson Ventures reflects a forward-thinking approach to sustainable food solutions, having invested in companies like Beyond Meat, Memphis Meats, and Tovala. Their portfolio illustrates a vision for the future where alternative proteins and tech-driven food solutions coexist with traditional meat products.

Kraft Heinz

Evolv Ventures under Kraft Heinz eyes technological transformations in the food industry with investments in GrubMarket, New Culture, and Zippin. This approach signifies a blend of interest in food delivery services, alternative dairy products, and innovative retail solutions.

Hormel Foods

199 Ventures, Hormel Foods' venture arm, signifies an innovative approach with investments in areas like alternative proteins and food technology. Partnering with The Better Meat Co. and anchoring in Green Circle Foodtech Ventures I showcases their dedication to novel ingredients and sustainability.

Unilever

Unilever Ventures, since 2002, has been pivotal in aligning with innovative companies across food and beverage sectors. Investments in Froosh, Gousto, and Instacart underscore their strategy to adapt to changing consumer preferences towards health, convenience, and online grocery shopping.

Nestlé

Nestlé, through its venture capital fund managed by Inventages Ventures Capital, has delved into science and technology to shape the future of food. Their portfolio includes investments in Vital Foods, XO, and Velle, highlighting a commitment to innovative health and wellness solutions.

Danone

Danone Manifesto Ventures illustrates a dedication to health and sustainability with investments in startups like Yooji, Harmless Harvest, and Farmer’s Fridge. This approach reinforces Danone's vision for a health-focused future of the food industry.

Barilla

Blu1877, Barilla’s venture capital fund and innovation hub, underlines its commitment to the core business and related innovations with investments in Regrained Supergrain and BluRhapsody. This showcases a strategy to lead in pasta innovation and sustainability.