AgTech Accelerator

EIT Food RisingFoodStars Opens Applications for Agri-Food Tech Startups

EIT Food RisingFoodStars, co-funded by the European Union, has launched a call for agri-food tech startups to join its 3-year program.
Image provided by EIT Food RisingFoodStars.

Key Takeaways

  • EIT Food RisingFoodStars, co-funded by the European Union, has launched a call for agri-food tech startups to join its 3-year program.
  • The program focuses on scaling solutions addressing challenges like climate change, soil health, and sustainable food systems in Europe.
  • Since 2018, the initiative has supported 146 startups, leading to 70% entering new markets, 33 innovations, and over 1,140 jobs created.
  • Eligible startups gain tailored support, Series A investment readiness training, access to funding mechanisms, and networking opportunities with Europe’s largest agrifood innovation ecosystem.
  • Applications close on February 21st, 2025.

EIT Food: Supporting the Future of Agri-Food Tech

EIT Food RisingFoodStars, the flagship program of EIT Food, has opened applications for its 3-year initiative aimed at scaling agri-food tech startups that address critical environmental and sustainability challenges in Europe. The program, supported by the European Union, seeks impact-driven, Series A-ready companies with validated innovations aligned with EIT Food’s missions, such as:

  • Creating a net-zero food system.
  • Promoting healthier and more sustainable diets.
  • Building a fair and resilient food system.

Achievements Since Inception

Launched in 2018, the RisingFoodStars program has:

  • Supported 146 agrifood-tech startups in their scaling efforts.
  • Facilitated market entry for 70% of participants.
  • Generated 33 groundbreaking innovations.
  • Resulted in 7 successful exits.
  • Created over 1,140 jobs across Europe.

These milestones highlight the program’s impact on addressing systemic issues in Europe’s agrifood sector, including the effects of climate change on agriculture, soil erosion, and nutrient imbalances.


Benefits for Participants of The EIT Food RisingFoodStars

Selected startups will receive:

  • Tailored support and a customised growth plan.
  • Access to €1.5M EIT Food Impact Fund and other funding mechanisms.
  • Series A investment readiness training.
  • Mentorship and mental health resources, including partnerships with organizations like Founder’s Circles.
  • Networking opportunities with 160 leading corporates, over 50 investors, and key stakeholders in Europe’s largest agrifood innovation ecosystem.

Participants can engage with flagship events such as NextBite, Pan-European conferences, and matchmaking platforms like Connecta2Invest, offering direct access to partners, collaborators, and markets.


A Mission-Driven Approach

“EIT Food RisingFoodStars offers much more than a typical accelerator. It’s a tailored programme designed to address the unique challenges of scaling a business in the agrifood sector,” said Magdalena Herrador, RFS Programme Lead.

The initiative focuses on providing startups with the tools to navigate the complex fundraising landscape while addressing founder well-being, a critical issue in entrepreneurship.


Application Details

EIT Food RisingFoodStars invites eligible startups to apply by February 21st, 2025, to join its mission-driven effort to transform Europe’s agrifood system. With its focus on sustainability and innovation, the program offers a unique opportunity for startups aiming to create long-term impact in the sector.

Startups can find more details and submit their applications through the program’s official platform.

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As a dedicated journalist and entrepreneur, I helm iGrow News, a pioneering media platform focused on the evolving landscape of Agriculture Technology. With a deep-seated passion for uncovering the latest developments and trends within the agtech sector, my mission is to deliver insightful, unbiased news and analysis. Through iGrow News, I aim to empower industry professionals, enthusiasts, and the broader public with knowledge and understanding of technological advancements that shape modern agriculture. You can follow me on LinkedIn & Twitter.

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