Startups

In this episode, Cecilie Skjong from Skyfall Ventures explores the Norwegian startup ecosystem, sharing her insights on early-stage investments, team dynamics, and the growing interest in Nordic tech innovation during Oslo Innovation Week.

This year's World Summit AI (WSAI) not only set the stage for global thought leaders to discuss the most pertinent subjects in industry right now, but it also served as a marketplace of ideas where startups from around the globe showcased their technologies.

In this episode, Björn Lapakko shares his experience navigating the startup ecosystem from the U.S. to the Nordics. He delves into his passion for building communities, the lessons learned from running tech conferences and startups, and his views on innovation and leadership in the ever-evolving world of tech.

A One-of-a-Kind Natural Vegan Sauce Versatil is not your ordinary condiment, it’s a 100% natural vegan sauce that brings flavor to almost any dish, from eggs to sushi. What makes Versatil stand out is its simplicity—no preservatives, no colorants, not even pasteurization. “Our sauce is completely natural and vegan-certified by ICA-RD,” explains the founder Sorin Butnariu. He has turned a family recipe into a promising international business. From a Family Recipe to a Global Ambition The story behind Versatil begins in the Sorin’s own kitchen. “We were preparing this sauce in the family for years, and I thought I should transform it into a worldwide business because of the extraordinary reaction of people who tasted it.” The decision to take this beloved family recipe and scale it into a global venture came naturally after seeing how people reacted to its unique taste. The product is versatile, fitting seamlessly into a variety of dishes, from burgers to sushi. A Sauce for Every Cuisine As the name suggests, Versatil is more than just a sauce — it’s an ingredient that enhances any meal. “Our product can be used with different foods like eggs, meat, cheese, or together with burgers, hot dogs, sushi, pasta. The sauce’s adaptability across cuisines makes it a must-have for anyone looking to add flavor without sacrificing health or quality. It’s a natural, healthier alternative to traditional sauces, giving consumers the flexibility to decide how they like it. A Bold Plan for Global Expansion With its unique product, Versatil is setting its sights on global expansion through a master franchise model. The founder explained, “I am looking for companies to start production of Versatil sauce in their own country under a master franchise agreement.” This business model is central to Versatil’s vision for growth, allowing local companies to produce and distribute the sauce while maintaining its natural and vegan qualities. By expanding in this way, Versatil aims to become a household name worldwide. Looking to the Future: A Taste Revolution 2024 is poised to be a big year for Versatil, with the company aiming to secure at least five master franchise agreements. “At least five Master Franchises started” is the goal, according to the founder, as they work toward building a global network. But more than anything, the driving force behind this growth is the enthusiasm for spreading their unique sauce to the world. SIAL Paris 2024 Wrap-Up: What You Missed! SIAL Paris 2024 just wrapped up yesterday, and if you couldn’t attend, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! Head over to our socials on Sesamers YouTube and LinkedIn to catch up on the recorded live streams. Don’t miss out on the future of foodtech!

Elevating Beverage Sweetening with Coconut-Based Innovation Coccola, created by SuiteFood, is changing how we sweeten our beverages with its unique coconut-based formula. Coccola’s coconut-based sweetener stands out from traditional options. It combines coconut water and milk powder to deliver essential electrolytes, magnesium, and potassium. This enhances not only the flavor of coffee and other drinks but also their nutritional value. “We wanted to offer more than just sweetness,” explains the founder Emmanuela Alesiani. “Coccola adds nutrients to your beverages, making it the first-ever nutrient-packed sweetener and beverage enhancer.” This product is more than just a sugar alternative — it’s a natural coconut-based sweetener that nourishes the body while offering a rich and delicious taste. The Italian Craftsmanship Behind Coccola And Coconut-Based Sweetener The name Coccola isn’t just about coconut-based sweetener; it’s also about bringing a sense of indulgence and comfort to consumers. Emmanuela explains, “We chose the name to evoke warmth and to reflect our Italian roots.” Coccola is crafted in Milan, combining Italian culinary traditions with a modern approach to nutrition. This fusion of authenticity and innovation has made Coccola’s coconut-based sweetener, a standout product in the growing market for healthy and natural sweeteners. The founder emphasizes, “It’s about creating a product that delights the taste buds and nourishes the body— without compromise.” A Health-Conscious Approach to Sweetening Health-conscious consumers are at the core of Coccola’s target audience. As wellness trends continue to grow, people are searching for alternatives that align with their health goals, whether it’s managing blood sugar, boosting energy, or maintaining a clean diet. “Our coconut-based sweetener isn’t just about cutting sugar,” Emmanuela shares, “It’s about adding something valuable to your coffee or drink — a source of nutrients that can support overall well-being.” Coccola’s unique formulation, which includes coconut-derived protein and natural antioxidants, turns every cup of coffee into a superfood. Its benefits extend beyond taste, offering health advantages like metabolism-boosting effects and improved hydration. Global Expansion and Strategic Partnerships for Coconut-Based Sweetener With an innovative product like Coccola, the path to growth is clear: expand globally through strategic partnerships. The founder shares their excitement about partnerships with Carrefour Italia, where Coccola will be featured both on shelves and in their café areas. “This is just the beginning,” they mention, “We are targeting international markets like France, Spain, and the UK, and we aim to expand our retail footprint.” The focus for 2024 includes closing a seed funding round of 1 million euros and establishing Coccola with its coconut-based sweetener as a leader in the European beverage market. This ambitious plan also involves scaling production and building a presence in the USA and Asia. Overcoming Challenges with Determination and Passion Starting a food tech company is no easy task, and the founder acknowledges the challenges they’ve faced along the way. “There were sleepless nights, rejections from investors, and market challenges,” they admit. But despite the hurdles, they never considered giving up. “We believe in Coccola and the positive impact it can have on people’s lives,” the founder adds. This passion drives them forward, eager to compete with established brands and even American startups in the same space. Their relentless determination to bring this Italian-crafted, coconut-based sweetener to the world is what keeps them going, day after day. SIAL F&B Exhibition Wrap-Up: A Celebration of Innovation The SIAL Paris 2024 just wrapped up, and we were truly amazed by the atmosphere, the inspiring pitches and speakers. If you missed the event, don’t worry — you can catch up on all the highlights, live streams, and wrap-ups on our socials! Check out our recorded sessions on Sesamers YouTube and LinkedIn to see what you missed, and experience the food tech industry’s future!

Founded in 2016 in London, Brite is emerging as the UK’s top natural nootropic drink. Combining science-backed nootropics with natural ingredients provides a healthier alternative to traditional energy drinks. The company boosts focus and productivity without the caffeine crashes or sugar spikes common in other drinks. Founder Simas Jarasunas, a professional swimmer, and co-founder Andrius Ratkevicius, a chemical engineer, initially aimed to enhance mental performance while avoiding the common jitters associated with energy drinks.” We wanted a product that supports focus sustainably,” says Jarasunas. Brite’s all-natural formula, free from sugar and artificial sweeteners, has become a favorite among professionals seeking clear-headed productivity. The Growing Market for Functional Drinks The functional beverage market is booming, driven by consumers’ growing preference for health-conscious products. The global energy drinks market is projected to reach $84 billion by 2026, growing at a CAGR of 7%, with demand increasing for clean-label products and healthier alternatives to sugary, artificially flavored drinks. Brite taps into this trend, providing a natural solution for enhanced focus and productivity. “Our target audience is those looking for increased productivity without the downsides of caffeine,” says Jarasunas. Brite stands out in the crowded energy drink market by incorporating nootropics- compounds that improve cognitive function. Key Partnerships and Retail Expansion Brite’s drink is widely available in major UK retailers, including Marks & Spencer, Sainsbury’s, and Whole Foods Market. In addition to its UK presence, the company has successfully expanded internationally, securing partnerships with SuperValu in Ireland and Carrefour in Belgium, further broadening its reach across Europe. The company is now becoming the go-to energy drink in corporate environments. Companies like Meta, Google, and LinkedIn stock Brite for employees seeking a productivity boost during the workday. “Our partnerships with tech offices have been instrumental in our growth, as companies prioritize employee well-being,” notes Lukas Chrimlis, Brite’s Sales Project Manager. Innovative Ingredients for Mental Clarity At the core of Brite’s formula are natural nootropics, known for their ability to support cognitive function. Key ingredients include guayusa, matcha, and guarana, which provide a steady energy source without blood sugar spikes or anxiety. “These ingredients work together to sustain focus over extended periods, making Brite ideal for people with demanding schedules,” says Jarasunas. Brite’s commitment to quality and transparency has resonated with health-conscious consumers. “We want to offer a product that people can trust, knowing it’s made from the best natural ingredients,” adds Chrimlis. With no artificial additives or unnecessary fillers, Brite has carved out a niche as a clean-label functional drink that consumers can rely on for focus and energy. Looking Ahead: Goals for 2024 Brite has ambitious plans for 2024, focusing on leading the nootropic drink category across Europe. “We’ve made incredible strides in the UK, and we’re now expanding our reach throughout Europe,” says Chrimlis. With a growing number of retail and corporate partners, it is well-positioned to achieve its expansion goals. Jarasunas and Chrimlis are eager to explore new partnerships that will accelerate growth. “We’re always looking for great talent to join our team as we scale,” Chrimlis adds. With their sights set on expanding globally, the Brite team remains committed to helping people stay productive and focused without the negative side effects.

Edgee, an innovative platform specializing in open-source edge computing, recently secured $2.9 million in funding. This investment will help Edgee tackle modern data processing challenges and provide developers with powerful new tools to build fast and scalable applications. Edge Computing Moves Data Processing Closer to the User Edgee is built around edge computing, a method that moves data processing to the “edge” of the network, closer to the end-user. This reduces latency and boosts performance, making applications run faster. As co-founder Sacha Morard explains, “We’re offering developers a full suite of edge services, from AI to cybersecurity, in an open ecosystem designed for speed and scalability.” By allowing developers to process data closer to the source, Edgee is surely revolutionizing the traditional approach to data handling. Tackling the Data Collection Dilemma: “The Big Lie” One of the main problems Edgee addresses is what the team calls “The Big Lie.” Traditional data collection methods lose 25% of users and 30% of data volume due to ad blockers, privacy regulations, and performance issues. Edgee’s solution brings data processing to the edge of the network, ensuring complete and reliable data collection. “Our platform guarantees that companies collect all the data they need, while maintaining performance and complying with user consent laws,” says Gilles Raymond, co-founder of Edgee. Open Source Edge Computing Solutions for Developers At its core, Edgee provides developers with an even more revolutionary way to collect data using open-source technology. Their platform offers customizable WebAssembly components, which developers can modify to suit their specific project needs. “We’re lowering the barrier to entry for developers,” says Sacha, “allowing them to build faster, more responsive applications without compromising on performance or compliance.” With a focus on flexibility, the open-source nature of Edgee empowers developers to innovate more freely. Serverless Architecture for Seamless Integration Edgee also features a serverless architecture that simplifies deployment, making it easier for companies to adopt and scale their platform. By offering a serverless option, Edgee ensures that businesses can quickly implement their solutions without extensive infrastructure needs. This approach allows companies to focus on innovation rather than on managing complex servers. Future of Open Source Edge Computing With the $2.9 million in funding, Edgee is undoubtedly well-positioned to expand its platform and continue innovating in edge computing. The company plans to grow its suite of services, including AI-driven analytics and cybersecurity tools, all powered by its open-source ecosystem. “This is just the beginning,” also says Sacha. “We’re committed to building a transparent, collaborative ecosystem that drives innovation in edge computing and beyond.” Edgee is not only providing developers with the tools they need to solve today’s data challenges but is also setting the stage for the future of edge computing. With its focus on performance, privacy, and scalability, Edgee is poised to become a key player in the tech landscape.

In a recent interview with Dr. Karl-Heinz Füller, Manager Future Exterior and Materials at Mercedes-Benz AG, we learned about the company’s strategic involvement in JEC World’s Startup Booster competition. This partnership highlights Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to innovation and sustainability through advanced composite materials. Let’s explore five key takeaways from our conversation and how Mercedes-Benz is changing the future of the automotive industry. Mercedes-Benz Champions Composite Innovation at JEC World Mercedes-Benz decided to sponsor JEC World’s Startup Booster as they want to tackle material challenges in the automotive industry. Dr. Füller explained, “JEC World’s Startup Booster Competition focuses on important material issues in the global materials community.” This sponsorship gives Mercedes-Benz the chance to explore new ideas related to composites, such as natural fibers and bio-based plastics, which are essential for creating sustainable vehicles in the future. The dedication to finding innovative solutions through these partnerships indeed shows the commitment to innovation and sustainability. A Systematic Approach to Evaluating Startups at JEC World’s Startup Booster When it comes to evaluating potential innovations, Mercedes-Benz follows a detailed process to ensure alignment with their strategic goals. Dr. Füller mentioned, “At the beginning of the process, we define our core searching areas together with the JEC organization.” This structured evaluation helps Mercedes-Benz identify startups that have the potential to provide breakthrough solutions in composite technology. The collaborations often start with a “Proof of Concept” project, allowing the company to test innovative ideas before moving forward with larger applications in their vehicle designs. Composites Beyond Carbon Fiber Although carbon-fiber-reinforced composites are well-known, Dr. Füller pointed out that other composite materials, such as glass fibers and textiles, play an even more critical role in the automotive industry. “The application range is much wider and important for the automotive industry,” he said. These materials offer a variety of benefits, from reducing weight to increasing durability, helping Mercedes-Benz create vehicles that meet both performance and sustainability standards. Sustainability Through Material Optimization Sustainability is at the heart of Mercedes-Benz’s innovation strategy, and composite materials play a significant role in achieving their goals. Dr. Füller emphasized that while composites aren’t the main contributors to CO2 emissions, “we have to take care of the optimization of all materials and every single component.” By continuously improving the materials used in their vehicles, Mercedes-Benz is working towards reducing their environmental impact, which is essential as global regulations tighten and consumer demand for sustainable vehicles increases. Success Stories of Innovation in Action Mercedes-Benz’s sponsorship of JEC World’s Startup Booster has already yielded notable results. One standout example is the integration of UBQ materials into their vehicles. UBQ transforms household waste into a usable plastic compound, showcasing a significant step towards reducing dependence on fossil resources. Dr. Füller shared, “UBQ is converting household waste into a material, which can be used in a plastic compound.” This success stories illustrate the potential of innovative materials in revolutionizing the automotive industry and driving sustainability. Take your startup to the next level by applying for JEC World’s 2025 Startup Booster competition before the final deadline on October 28th. This is a fantastic opportunity to gain exposure, receive mentorship, and attract investment!

Edmond, founded in 2019, is the first French craft brewery dedicated solely to alcohol-free beers. Their mission is to break the stereotype that alcohol-free beer is only for specific groups, like pregnant women. “We wanted to broaden the horizon of alcohol-free craft beer and bring everyone to it,” said Emilie Yana, the founder of Edmond. This approach, combined with a unique brewing process, results in a beer that tastes just like the real thing — with bitterness, body, and bubbles, but without alcohol or added sugars. The Inspiration Behind Edmond: A Personal Journey The creation of Edmond wasn’t just about filling a gap in the market; it was personal. Emilie, a former professional dancer, decided to stop drinking alcohol in 2017. This choice brought her to realize how limited the options were for alcohol-free beverages. “I realized the social desert this implied,” said Emilie, “not to mention the qualitative poverty of imported alcohol-free beers.” With this realization, she teamed up with Sébastien Dué, who developed a brewing process from scratch. What started as a personal project quickly grew into a vision for the world. High-Quality Ingredients and Local Sourcing for Alcohol-Free Craft Beer One of the key differentiators for Edmond’s alcohol-free craft beer is the quality of the ingredients they use. Unlike many industrial non-alcoholic beers, Edmond focuses on sourcing organic and local ingredients to create flavorful, natural brews. “We continue to produce natural alcohol-free beers, with no additives but with a lot of flavor thanks to our organic ingredients sourcing”. The brewery’s use of the best hops and malts gives their beer a rich and authentic taste. Challenging Stereotypes and Changing Perceptions Edmond is on a mission to challenge the traditional view of who drinks alcohol-free beer. Their tagline and branding aim to attract a broader audience, breaking away from the idea that these beers are only for certain demographics. “The idea was to broaden the horizon of alcohol-free beer and bring everyone to it,” said Emilie. Whether it’s for health reasons, driving, or simply a lifestyle choice, Edmond believes that anyone can enjoy a high-quality alcohol-free beer. Their focus is on creating a beverage that not only tastes great but also fits seamlessly into social situations. Expanding Beyond France with Edmond’s Alcohol-Free Craft Beer While Edmond has already gained traction in France, the company has its eyes set on international expansion. “Going abroad is part of the plan,” said Emilie. The team is focused on increasing production, building new partnerships, and continuing to innovate in the alcohol-free beer space. Edmond’s participation in events like SIAL Startup is a crucial step in achieving their goals for 2024, as they aim to develop their business and get more people to experience their unique beers. Don’t Miss the SIAL Food & Beverage Exhibition! If you’re as excited as we are about innovative food and beverage companies like Edmond, make sure to attend the SIAL Food & Beverage Exhibition in Paris, running from October 19-23rd. Get your tickets now and join us in exploring the future of food tech. Can’t make it in person? No worries! We’ll be streaming live from the event on our Sesamers YouTube and LinkedIn, so you can catch all the action online.

This podcast episode dives into the future of recruitment with Håkon Høgetveit, co-founder and CEO of Vouch, as he explains how referral-based hiring is revolutionizing recruitment. Høgetveit shares insights into leveraging networks and AI while maintaining the human touch in hiring practices.

Food Analytics is carving out a unique niche by integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and behavioral science into the world of food innovations. This platform offers a fresh perspective by analyzing food products through machine learning and combining insights from several academic disciplines. “We leverage machine learning and advanced analytics to generate a comprehensive evaluation of food assets,” said Richard Delerins, the founder and CEO of Food Analytics. Their data-driven approach helps food companies and investors make informed decisions that drive growth and innovation. A Team That’s Passionate About Food and Innovation Behind every successful startup is a team that not only believes in the mission but also lives it. At Food Analytics, this couldn’t be more accurate. “Everybody in our team comes with a unique set of business acumen & industry knowledge, but more importantly, our team is intensely passionate about food industry,” Delerins emphasized. This passion fuels their ability to blend AI and behavioral science in food innovation into a cohesive solution that caters to a range of clients in the Food & Beverage sector. Unique Solutions for the Food & Beverage Industry Food Analytics offers a service that is truly one-of-a-kind. They don’t just assess food products; they forecast future performance based on multiple dimensions, such as profitability and scalability. “Our algorithms may also be used to forecast future performance, such as revenue growth,” explained Delerins. This is a game-changer for both food companies and investors, providing a deeper understanding of a product’s potential beyond basic market research. Their proprietary software and unique combination of academic insights make them stand out in the competitive food tech landscape. A Vision for the Future: Making Data More Accessible Though already a success, Food Analytics continues to innovate. One of their major goals is to make their platform more accessible through a SaaS model. Currently, their solutions are customized for each client, but soon, food companies and investors will be able to access these insights through a software platform. “We are working on making our capabilities even more accessible through this development,” said Delerins. This move will further solidify their position as a leader in food tech innovation. What’s Next for FoodAnalytics and Behavioral Science in Food Innovation? Participating in international events like SIAL Startup is just the beginning for Food Analytics. The company is keen on meeting forward thinkers in the food industry to expand its network and continue its growth. “We expect to meet forward thinkers & innovators in the Food & Beverage industry who can become our future collaborators,” Delerins mentioned. With such an innovative solution and a clear vision for the future, Food Analytics is poised to lead the next wave of innovation in the food tech space. If you’re excited about the innovations happening in the food tech industry, be sure to attend the SIAL F&B Exhibition in Paris, happening this week from October 19-23rd. Grab your tickets now to join in-person and discover the latest trends firsthand. If you can’t make it to Paris, no worries! We’ll be doing a live stream from the event on our Sesamers YouTube and LinkedIn, so you won’t miss a thing. Stay tuned for exclusive insights, live interviews, and behind-the-scenes footage straight from the exhibition floor!

So, you’ve built something remarkable, your startup is buzzing, and you’re thinking: “It’s time for the world to know about this!” Engaging in public relations (PR) may seem like the next logical step. But before you pop the champagne and start drafting press releases, take a step back. Is PR the right move for your startup right now? Like all good things, timing and intention are everything. The “why” and “when” of PR are two sides of the same coin, making it essential to explore both together. Whether PR will be a game-changer for your startup—or a frustrating drain on resources—depends on understanding your motivations and timing. Let’s break it down! Why PR? The Benefits for Startups Storytelling, Image, and Trust. At its core, PR is about storytelling. You’ve developed something incredible, but it’s not enough for your team to know that—you need your target audience, investors, and the media to know it, too. A well-executed PR strategy builds trust, enhances your brand’s image, and amplifies your message. It shapes how your company is perceived at every customer journey stage. Good PR also boosts brand awareness. You enter public consciousness by sharing your story through media coverage, speaking engagements, and podcasts. It’s not just about people knowing your name; it’s about them understanding why they should care. Building Relationships with Key Stakeholders PR isn’t just about communicating with customers; it’s about establishing relationships with essential stakeholders, including financial regulators, government bodies, and potential partners. Strategic PR positions your startup as a trustworthy and credible player in the market, opening doors to partnerships, hiring opportunities, and other valuable relationships. Attracting Top Talent While a competitive paycheck is attractive, today’s top talent seeks more than just financial compensation. PR can help establish your startup as an exciting workplace. A positive media presence builds a reputation that attracts the best minds in the industry. Fundraising Opportunities Venture capitalists (VCs) love a compelling story. Can you blame them? PR can generate buzz, craft a narrative around your startup, and help position you as the next big thing. While money talks, media attention speaks volumes—investors are looking for market opportunities and innovative founders capable of scaling their businesses. Understanding Newsworthiness It’s crucial to recognize what makes a story appealing to the media. Newsworthiness hinges on relevance, timeliness, and impact. Journalists seek stories that capture their audience’s attention. If your startup solves a real problem, disrupts an industry, or raises significant funding, you’ve got newsworthiness. Conversely, if your startup is still in the idea phase with little to showcase, PR might not be effective yet. Here’s a quick breakdown of newsworthy stories that journalists typically cover for startups: Startups that can share compelling stories, statistics, and case studies have a better chance of getting media attention. Why Not to Start PR (Yet) It may seem controversial for a PR agency founder to share the downsides of early-stage PR, but we want the work to be effective. Sometimes, it’s simply too soon! Jumping into PR prematurely can backfire. If you’re pursuing PR solely for vanity—trying to get press coverage without a substantial story—you’ll quickly deplete resources with minimal return. Consider your customer journey: what role could PR play in optimizing your funnel? If you successfully acquire customers through performance marketing and have limited resources, it may be wiser to continue focusing on ads. When Should You Start Doing PR? PR isn’t a magic switch you flip on whenever you feel like it. Timing is crucial, and knowing when PR will deliver value for your startup is essential. Here are key questions to consider: When Is Your Startup Newsworthy? The answer is straightforward: the bigger and more successful you are, the more newsworthy you become. However, you can maximize your current newsworthiness at any stage. Is NOT Doing PR Costing You? You might miss opportunities if your startup is scaling but not engaging in PR. Every unreported newsworthy event means potential customers, investors, or partners miss out on exposure and trust and may turn to competitors instead. Determine when neglecting PR becomes an opportunity cost. Is trust vital in your customer acquisition, hiring, or fundraising efforts? Does Your Team Have the Bandwidth? PR isn’t just something you outsource and forget about. It requires input from your team, whether reviewing press releases or providing insights for thought leadership pieces. Ideally, the intellectual overseer of PR should be a founder, preferably the CEO. If you’re too busy building your product or seeking your next round of funding, and no one else can provide strategic input, it may not be the right time for PR. Budget and Timing Considerations PR is an investment that requires proper budgeting. Ask yourself: do you have the resources to commit to PR long-term? PR is most effective when consistent; sporadic media attention rarely yields sustained results. If your marketing budget is tight, consider prioritizing other areas, such as sales or product development. However, a well-timed funding announcement or significant news can lay the groundwork for future PR efforts. When Not to Do PR PR won’t be effective if you have nothing to say. If you’re too early in your journey, too busy to participate, or not newsworthy yet. You can always return to PR when you have compelling stories to share. Understanding what is newsworthy and what isn’t is crucial, so ensure you study this aspect thoroughly. Let’s Wrap This Up! PR can be a powerful tool for startups—but only when executed at the right time and for the right reasons. When your startup is ready—with news to share, a story to tell, and the capacity to support a PR campaign—PR can help propel you to new heights. With a little self-awareness and the right timing, PR can be the catalyst that takes your startup from unknown to unforgettable!