Key Takeaways:
- Forward Fooding has launched the seventh edition of the FoodTech 500, the global ranking of AgriFoodTech innovators.
- Since 2019, the FoodTech 500 has evaluated more than 10,500 applications from over 180 countries.
- Applications for the 2025 edition close on November 15, 2025, with winners announced in Q1 2026.
- Selected companies gain industry recognition, global visibility, and access to strategic networks and partnerships.
- Pladis, the global snacking leader, is the official sponsor of the 2025 FoodTech 500.
Forward Fooding: Global Ranking of FoodTech Innovators
Forward Fooding announced that applications are now open for the 2025 FoodTech 500, described as the “Fortune 500 of FoodTech.” The program highlights startups and scale-ups driving innovation in food production, sustainability, and technology.
Since its launch in 2019, the FoodTech 500 has identified companies such as Apeel Sciences, Upside Foods, Too Good To Go, NotCo, and Winnow, which have since secured major partnerships and expanded globally.
Alessio D’Antino, CEO of Forward Fooding, said: “What began as a simple idea in 2019—to highlight both the rising stars and established leaders in FoodTech—has evolved into the globally recognised FoodTech 500. Now in its seventh edition, this milestone comes at a time of significant shifts in the global FoodTech market, where funding remains scarce, yet innovation continues to thrive. More than ever, FoodTech 500 serves as a beacon for the trailblazers shaping the future of food at the intersection of technology and sustainability.”
Benefits for Selected Companies
Companies ranked in the FoodTech 500 gain access to:
- Strategic Matchmaking: Connections with trade agencies, corporates, and investors.
- Global Visibility: Media exposure through partnerships, press releases, and campaigns.
- Partner Programs: Priority access to accelerators, competitions, and collaborations.
The ranking also includes placement in the annual White Paper, distributed to more than 350,000 readers, and exposure to a professional network of 20,000+ stakeholders.
Previous participants described the program as a boost for credibility, fundraising, and industry recognition. Constantinos Loizou of Embio Diagnostics noted: “Being recognized alongside the top innovators in food technology helped us build trust with partners, investors, and clients who are committed to sustainability and technological advancement. It also opened up networking opportunities within a forward-thinking community, which has been instrumental in expanding our reach and accelerating collaborations.”
Application Process For Forward Fooding's FoodTech 500
Applications are open to startups and scale-ups under 15 years old with an incorporated business and active website. All organizations, including past recipients, must reapply with updated information to ensure current evaluation.
Applications close on November 15, 2025, with winners unveiled in the first quarter of 2026. Details and the application form are available on their website.
