Forward Fooding has opened applications for the eighth edition of the FoodTech 500, an international initiative that recognises innovative companies in food, agriculture, technology, and sustainability. African startups can submit their applications free of charge until 15 November.
Modelled on the Fortune 500 list, the FoodTech 500 aims to highlight companies that use technology to improve the production, processing, distribution, and consumption of food, promoting more efficient and sustainable food systems.
The initiative is open to startups and scale-ups from around the world, including Africa, regardless of the stage of business development.
Areas covered include precision agriculture, agricultural biotechnology, smart irrigation systems, vertical farming, alternative proteins, food processing, sustainable packaging, and waste reduction.
To be eligible, companies must be legally incorporated, have an active website, and be less than 15 years old.
Applications will be assessed against three main criteria: commercial viability, innovation, and sustainability. Evaluators will examine factors such as the existence of customers, the implementation of pilot projects, the originality of solutions, and their contribution to more sustainable food systems.
The 2026 edition also introduces an equity and social impact component, which values founder diversity and solutions targeting Global South countries and communities with limited access to services and opportunities.
According to the organisation, the selection process includes verification of information submitted by companies, notably through application forms, websites, and business pitch documents.
Applications can be submitted via the official FoodTech 500 platform until 15 November. The final ranking and accompanying report are expected to be released in the first quarter of 2027.
Selected companies will have the opportunity to gain international visibility among investors, business partners, and other organisations connected to agri-food innovation.
Source: Diário Económico
Original article: https://www.diarioeconomico.co.mz/?p=557170
