In the dynamic world of FoodTech innovation, the FoodTech 500 initiative by Forward Fooding stands tall as a beacon of recognition and celebration for the most groundbreaking AgriFoodTech companies globally.  

Join us for the dynamic Global Unveiling of the Official 2023 FoodTech 500 on March 13th at the London FoodTech Hub, in partnership with Huckletree, as we celebrate the most groundbreaking AgriFoodTech companies shaping the future of food systems. Since its inception, the FoodTech 500 has been at the forefront of showcasing startups at the intersection of food, technology, and sustainability, driving positive change and shaping the future of food systems.

The FoodTech500

The FoodTech 500 goes beyond highlighting innovation, delving into the transformative impact these companies have on food systems and the world. These innovators catalyze a paradigm shift in food production, distribution, and consumption, pioneering alternative proteins and precision fermentation techniques for a more sustainable future.

Moreover, the FoodTech 500 emphasises the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing within the FoodTech ecosystem. By bringing together startups, investors, and experts, the initiative fosters an environment where ideas can flourish, partnerships can form, and innovations can thrive.

Over the years, the FoodTech 500 initiative has left a lasting impact on the global landscape, reaching 180+ countries. The initiative received 9K+ applications and representing 70+ countries among the winners, the FoodTech500 showcases global collaboration and innovation in the future of food. The FoodTech 500 works to become a catalyst for positive change in the food industry worldwide.

The Evolution of the UK vs Global FoodTech Ecosystem

The UK emerges as a dynamic hub of innovation within the FoodTech sector, boasting a diverse ecosystem bustling with startups, innovators, and investors. From exploring alternative proteins to advancing precision fermentation, companies based in the UK are reshaping the way we approach food technology, contributing to a more sustainable and dynamic food system.

The position of the UK as a top AgriFoodTech player is reflected in this year’s FoodTech500. The UK emerges as a strong contender in the global FoodTech sector, being the second largest hub behind the US in terms of number of companies represented in the final list (57 UK companies & 80 US companies).

Our UK FoodTech Champions

We are pleased to be celebrating present and future FoodTech champions on Wednesday 13th of March at our FoodTech Innovation Hub! 

The event will kickstart with Co-Founder & CEO of Forward Fooding, Alessio D’Antino unveiling the 2023 FoodTech500 ranking (drum-roll)!! 

Simon Hall from Google Cloud will also be introducing the Google for Startups Cloud Program and share success stories of supporting AgriFoodTech businesses.

Finally, current leading UK FoodTech innovators will take the stage to present their companies and their technology solutions presentations,  FoodSquared (alternative proteins), SmarterNaturally (precision fermentation), Sustainable Planet (growth media), Nukoko (nutrition-enhanced foods), Extracellular (CDMO), The Wonki Collective (ingredient redistribution)and Muddy Machines (robotic harvesting technology). Following the presentations, a panel discussion and open Q&A session will provide further insight into these groundbreaking technologies.

After gathering valuable insights, it’ll be the opportunity to unwind with some networking drinks and enjoy a live showcase featuring exciting UK FoodTech products and technologies, satisfying both your curiosity and appetite with Saved, Mimica, Element Packaging, Modern Baker, Low Rise Beer, WinWin, and more!  

Learn more about our speakers and their journey below:

FoodSquared –Frankie Fox, CEO and Co-founder

Frankie spearheads a B2B FoodTech venture focusing on next-generation plant-based shellfish, starting with the UK’s inaugural plant-based prawns. With a rich background in FMCG food entrepreneurship and finance, Frankie’s journey includes scaling an award-winning condiment brand from a kitchen table startup to international acclaim, alongside extensive experience in banking and finance.

Smarternaturally– Laura Knight, Co-Founder & CEO
Laura brings her expertise as a serial entrepreneur and corporate affairs professional to The Smarter Food Company. Laura’s journey spans successful ventures in online retail and hospitality, as well as pivotal roles in corporate affairs at esteemed institutions like the Quadram Institute. Her strategic acumen and leadership are driving forces behind the company’s innovative food technology solutions.

Sustainable Planet– Susan Payne, Co-Founder, COO
Susan boasts a 30-year career marked by groundbreaking ventures in sustainable agriculture and agri-tech. From co-founding Holistic Agricultural Investments Group Ltd to spearheading Sustainable Planet’s mission to combat food insecurity and climate change through plant protein production, Susan’s leadership has garnered global recognition and numerous accolades, including the Shell UK Woman of the Future Award.

Nukoko – Ross Newton, Founder
Ross brings over a decade of experience in the chocolate industry to address the pressing issues faced by the cocoa sector. Motivated by firsthand insights, Ross and his team at Nukoko are revolutionizing the industry with innovative solutions to tackle challenges head-on.

Extracellular –Will Milligan, CEO & Founder
Will is a seasoned specialist in process development and scale-up, leads Extracellular with a wealth of experience in biotech. His expertise spans stem cells, gene therapies, and cultivated meat, driving the company’s mission to redefine biotech solutions for a sustainable future.

Muddy Machines –Chris Chavasse, Founder and CTO
Chris is a visionary in agri-tech, pioneering versatile electric robots for selective harvesting and precision applications. With a background in developing cutting-edge household and kitchen robotics, Chris channels his passion for innovation to address pressing challenges in agriculture, shaping the future of farming with Muddy Machines.

 The Wonki Collective –Alina Sartogo and Dini McGrath, Co- Founders
Alina Sartogo and Dini McGrath, Co-founders of Wonki Collective, bring a wealth of expertise to the table. Alina’s background spans over a decade in commercial dispute law, complemented by entrepreneurial ventures in art curation and bespoke furniture design. Her understanding of regulated industries, including food manufacturing, has been pivotal in shaping Wonki’s innovative solutions. Dini’s 8+ years in the food and beverage sector, notably at Sipsmith and Beam Suntory, have equipped her with invaluable insights into supply chain dynamics and strategic brand management. Together, Alina and Dini lead Wonki Collective with a shared passion for combating food waste and driving sustainable solutions in the industry.

We are also excited to introduce Google Cloud as a strategic partner for the event. Google Cloud has been actively supporting the AgriFoodTech startup ecosystem via its Google For Startups Cloud Program, which provides access to startup experts, Google Cloud and Firebase costs covered up to USD 200K (up to USD 350K for AI startups) over 2 years, technical training, business support, and Google-wide offers.

Don’t miss out…

Join us in celebrating innovation and excellence in the FoodTech industry at our upcoming event. Don’t miss the opportunity to connect with visionary founders, industry experts, and fellow enthusiasts as we unveil the latest advancements shaping the future of food. 

Get your tickets now for Global Unveiling of the Official 2023 FoodTech 500.

Hope you see you there!

Thank you!

At Forward Fooding, we’re thrilled to bring together these remarkable groups of pioneering founders and FoodTech experts at our London FoodTech Innovation Hub. 

Want to learn more about AgriFoodTech? Forward Fooding is the world’s first collaborative platform for FoodTech Data Intelligence and Corporate Startup Collaboration.  

To learn more visit: forwardfooding.com or contact us at info@forwardfooding.com.