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Europe’s first plant-based startup incubator: Innovation with a mission
November 1, 2018
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” – Margaret Mead
As a food awareness organisation, ProVeg International advocates that our food choices can be a multi-problem solution, helping to resolve issues around human health, animal welfare, the environment, and justice, while emphasising the delicious taste and appeal of a plant-based diet. This advocacy is accompanied by our 50by40 mission – to reduce the global consumption of animals by 50% by the year 2040. In order to achieve this mission, ProVeg makes use of numerous avenues, the latest of which is the ProVeg Incubator.
WHAT IS AN INCUBATOR?
Incubators assist startups with the process of establishing their business and dealing with all of the challenges and obstacles faced by young, emerging commercial entities. Incubators are about people, processes, partnerships, and prosperity, providing a unique and safe space in which to grow and mature. Services provided by incubators include office space, management training, investment networks, development programmes, and other necessary infrastructure. In short, an incubator acts as a bridge between an idea and turning that idea into a viable business.
WHERE IS THE INCUBATOR?
Berlin has been recognised as the vegan capital of the world as well as one of the fastest-growing startup hubs. Our incubator is located next door to the ProVeg headquarters in Berlin. It’s just close enough to access any needed support and connect to our extensive network, yet sufficiently distinct to cultivate the necessary environment for startups. In addition to its multicultural population and diverse cuisine, Berlin is a relatively affordable city with one of the world’s best public transport networks. All of which means that it’s a great place to collaborate and get inspired.
WHY AN INCUBATOR?
Incubators offer the support, network, vision and expertise that are essential to helping businesses scale. They provide startups with the opportunity to grow in an environment of expertise and reduced risk. Without the help and environment of an incubator, startups face a huge learning curve in the face of a constantly changing technological and economic landscape.
HOW IS THE PROVEG INCUBATOR DIFFERENT?
With the ProVeg Incubator, we plan to support businesses that have the potential to transform global food culture. We have structured a programme that will be customised to every batch of new intakes, giving emergent entrepreneurs the tools to create, collaborate, grow, and scale. Our expert network, modern working space, expert programmes, and diverse test community, as well as enhanced access to R&D and funding, are some of the many reasons why our programme is unique. We are looking forward to growing and supporting the next big game changers in the global food industry!
If you have a business idea or an existing product or service that has the potential to change the food landscape by replacing conventional animal-based products with plant-based or cultured animal products, apply now to the ProVeg Incubator. If you believe in our mission, or simply want to support changes in the future of food, the Incubator has much to offer. Keep an eye and ear out for all the amazing ideas that will soon be launched.
WHEN DOES THE PROGRAMME BEGIN?
Our first batch of startups begins today, 1 November, which is World Vegan Day! The programme will run for four months, with startups going through distinct developmental phases during that time. The second intake of startups will begin in March 2019.
For more information about the ProVeg Incubator or to apply, take a look at the website: www.provegincubator.com.