Startups

In an era when sustainable food sources are more crucial than ever, Divaks is in charge of innovative, insect-based ingredients for the food industry. Founded in 2020 by CEO Kęstutis Lipnickas and Chairman Audrius Grušnis in Lithuania, this startup is committed to revolutionizing how we think about protein sources. With a growing team of 18 professionals, Divaks is poised to significantly impact food production. A Shift Towards Sustainable Food Systems Insect-based ingredients represent an important step toward creating a more sustainable food system. Producing insect protein requires significantly fewer resources like water, land, and feed, emitting fewer greenhouse gases than traditional livestock farming. Insect farming produces 80% fewer greenhouse gas emissions than conventional livestock. The food industry, seeking innovative ways to meet growing protein demand with limited resources, has taken notice of the reduced environmental impact of insect-based ingredients. Lithuania-based Divaks recognized this potential and developed a range of insect-based ingredients tailored to the industry’s needs. Insect Ingredients as a Game-Changer Their high nutritional value drives the shift toward insect-based ingredients. Insects are rich in proteins, vitamins, and amino acids, making them a highly efficient food source with minimal environmental impact. The FAO notes insects provide as much protein as beef but need fewer resources. Recognizing this, Divaks has become a pioneer in insect protein for the food industry. Insect protein is now a practical solution to sustainably feed the growing global population. Targeting Health-Conscious Consumers As the food industry evolves, so do consumer preferences. Millennials and Gen-Z are increasingly focused on health and sustainability, making them ideal consumers for alternative proteins like insect-based ingredients. A 2020 Innova Market Insights study found that 40% of global consumers prioritize sustainability in their food choices. Divaks targets food companies and ingredient distributors, appealing to consumers who value nutrition and environmental responsibility. The company is positioned for long-term success in an innovation-driven market by aligning with these trends. Collaboration in the Insect Industry One of the unique aspects of the insect protein industry is its focus on collaboration rather than competition. Divaks believes the collaboration will accelerate market growth as the sector is still developing. By working together, companies in the insect protein industry can boost consumer awareness and expand sustainable protein adoption. The company is partnering with European distributors and engaging directly with food companies to promote insect-based products. Their commitment to collaboration, innovation, and sustainability is what sets them apart in this rapidly growing sector. Divaks’ Revenue and Future Goals Divaks is currently building partnerships with European distributors, having already signed contracts in Italy and Germany. “We are finalizing contracts in Austria, the UK, Ireland, and Spain,” they reported. The startup is also exploring opportunities in the pet food market, broadening its reach. The company is participating in the SIAL Startup Village event for the first time, seeing it as a valuable opportunity to connect with producers and distributors while educating the food industry about the benefits of insect proteins. “We hope to enlighten others about the overall value of insect proteins,” they expressed.

CURIUS, a Swiss startup founded in 2021, is revolutionizing the beverage industry with its innovative design and functionality. Their “StayCurius” tagline reflects their drive to challenge the status quo and find better solutions. Using design to solve problems, the company is changing how beverages are presented and consumed, tackling long-standing industry inefficiencies. Why Choose the Name CURIUS? For CURIUS, the name is more than just a brand; it’s a philosophy.”Curiosity is our driving force,” says the team. “We’re not afraid to ask ‘why’ and ‘what if.'” This inquisitive approach is deeply embedded in the company’s DNA, driving it to push boundaries and create products that challenge conventional industry norms. Mats Olsson, Co-Founder of CURIUS, emphasizes, “By fostering a culture of curiosity, we uncover new opportunities and innovate beyond the ordinary.” Innovative Solutions Through Design CURIUS was founded to use design to address inefficiencies in the beverage industry. “Design is at the core of our products, solving inefficiencies long accepted as norms,” says Olsson. This commitment to design-driven problem-solving allows the company to stand out with unique, consumer-friendly products. From enhancing aesthetic appeal to addressing functional issues, CURIUS creates visually appealing and highly efficient products. A Team Built on Experience and Diversity The Founders of CURIUS—Alexander Curiger, Mats Olsson, and Juan Carlos Maroto Jara—first met in 2010 while launching Gin Mare, a premium gin brand. With over 50 years of combined experience, they work remotely from Zurich, London, and Madrid. Their diverse backgrounds and global networks allow them to tackle challenges from different angles. “With our experience and network, we challenge the status quo and offer fresh perspectives,” the team says. Targeting Discerning Drinkers CURIUS isn’t just targeting any consumer. “Our products are for discerning drinkers bored with average drinks,” says Maroto Jara. The company creates premium beverages with unique designs and real purpose, targeting sophisticated drinkers who value quality and originality. Their visually striking products, therefore, cater to consumers who seek more than just good taste. Setting New Standards in the Premium Beverage Sector In a market of established players, CURIUS stands out with its innovative, space-saving squared bottle design, which “saves over 80% of space,” the team explains. This design boosts efficiency and strengthens the product’s visual identity. Tapping into trends like Aperitivo and adult soft drinks aims to cater to those seeking new flavors and non-alcoholic options. With MATCH Tonic Water, they are ready to meet the growing demand for healthier, premium drinks. Strategic Growth and Market Expansion Since its launch in October 2023, CURIUS has made remarkable progress in the global market. “We’ve secured 20 markets for export, mainly covering the EU, and several key listings in Corte Inglés, Manor, Carrefour, Movenpick, and Globus,” the team reveals. In 2024, they plan to expand into Australia, Mexico, and the USA to reach €4.5 million in turnover. The company actively seeks new distribution partners by participating in events like SIAL Startup Village, aiming to boost global exposure. Driving Forward with Passion What keeps the CURIUS founders awake at night? “Boosting brand exposure and creating buzz around MATCH Tonic Water,” they say. Their passion for expanding the brand drives them constantly. “The same reasons that keep us awake at night motivate us each morning,” they add. Despite rapid growth, the team remains dedicated to innovation, focusing on design and efficiency, positioning CURIUS as a major player in the premium beverage market.

Eddytec, a spin-out from the University of Amsterdam, is revolutionizing carbon fibre testing with its advanced defect detection technology for aerospace, automotive, cycling, and renewable energy sectors. These conventional approaches are often slow, costly, and require specialized training, or they result in destructive testing that increases waste. Eddytec’s solution provides a faster, more affordable, and non-destructive approach to quality control, positioning it as a game-changer in carbon fibre testing. A Game-Changing Solution in Carbon Fibre Testing Eddytec’s state-of-the-art technology employs eddy currents to identify cracks and imperfections in carbon fibre composites. This advanced carbon fibre testing method speeds up measurements and simplifies data collection for technical personnel. The company’s innovation enhances usability and reduces complexity which fast-tracked their path to becoming a finalist of JEC World’s 2024 Startup Booster competition. . Eddytec’s Journey to the Startup Booster Eddytec’s strategic entry into JEC World’s Startup Booster competition was perfectly timed with the company’s growth. Spotted on the F6S platform shortly after Eddytec’s 2022 founding, this competition consequently provided excellent visibility and valuable networking opportunities. Their timely-prepared demonstrator unit showcased its cutting-edge carbon fibre testing technology at the Startup Village, gaining exposure to industry leaders and potential investors. Preparing for Success at JEC World 2024 Preparing for the JEC World Startup Booster competition required meticulous planning. Alina Chanaewa, Eddytec’s CEO & Co-founder, gained valuable insights and guidance from the JEC Startup Booster and Sesamers teams. Reflecting on the process, Chanaewa shares that “the feedback on our pitch deck was incredibly helpful and gave me the confidence to pitch in front of the seasoned jury.” This thorough preparation and rehearsal ensured a successful presentation and significantly boosted her confidence throughout the competition. Tips for Future Participants in Startup Booster For those considering participation in JEC World’s 2025 Startup Booster competition, Chanaewa offers key advice. First, schedule meetings with potential partners early for valuable collaborations. Speed networking sessions are also highly beneficial. Additionally, having a team of two—one for the stand and one for networking—greatly enhances the experience. Chanaewa emphasizes again that “preparing and practising the pitch thoroughly is essential, as it boosts confidence and performance on stage.” The Vision for the Future Eddytec envisions a future where its technology accelerates the adoption of carbon fibre composites by making them more accessible. They aim to expand its use in aerospace and other industries by reducing testing costs and simplifying maintenance. Their non-destructive testing methods will extend component lifespans, minimize waste, and promote a circular economy. Eddytec is set to lead significant advancements in carbon fibre testing, establishing new quality control and sustainability standards in the composites industry. Ready to take your startup to the next level? Apply for JEC World’s 2025 Startup Booster competition before the final deadline on October 28th. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain exposure, mentorship, and investment!

RIMOO, founded in 2023 in France, is transforming the ice cream industry with its state-of-the-art vending machines. “We named our company RIMOO, inspired by Japanese culture because it embodies both simplicity and elegance,” explains Alexandre Avenet, the CEO. This cutting-edge startup offers fresh, traditional, organic, and vegan soft ice cream in just 10 seconds, setting a new benchmark for the frozen treat sector. Addressing the Freshness and Quality Gap The need for high-quality, fresh soft ice cream drove RIMOO’s inception. Avenet says, “We noticed a lack of transparency and freshness in ice cream vending and aimed to fix that.” Their autonomous machines offer a fast, convenient, and premium ice cream experience, addressing the growing demand for freshness and automation. A Dynamic Team Driving Innovation In The Ice Cream Vending Machines Sector Operating from Paris and Nice, RIMOO’s team combines diverse skills and expertise. “Avenet’s engineering prowess and Mbouyom’s finance and consulting experience make us uniquely equipped to advance this innovation,” notes Avenet. This synergy of technology and business acumen ensures that their machines are advanced and commercially viable. Targeting High-Traffic B2B Venues The company primarily focuses on serving B2B clients, such as event organizers, businesses, and public venues. “We cater to festivals, corporate events, amusement parks, and more, where quick, high-quality ice cream is a must,” Avenet highlights. By targeting high-traffic areas, they offer a unique, customizable ice cream experience that stands out from traditional vendors. Setting New Standards in Ice Cream Experience In contrast to traditional ice cream vendors and frozen brands, RIMOO’s key advantage lies in its unique combination of speed and customization. “We provide freshly made ice cream in just 10 seconds, offering an interactive and fresh experience that traditional vendors and frozen brands can’t match,” explains Avenet. This innovation positions them as a leader in enhancing the ice cream experience. Strategic Growth and Innovation Plans for 2024 Looking ahead, RIMOO aims to secure funding by the end of 2024 to fuel its expansion and innovation. “Our daily motivation is to push boundaries and share our passion for ice cream worldwide,” says Avenet. Through participation in SIAL Startup Village, they seek to gain exposure, connect with industry leaders, and forge strategic partnerships to strengthen its global market presence.

Founded in 2020 in France, Black Idol is redefining what it means to enjoy a cup of coffee. The company blends pleasure with purpose, offering coffee infused with health benefits to combat aging and overweight. Their tagline says it all: “The first range of pleasure and functional coffees with green tea polyphenols to fight against overweight and aging.” The Inspiration Behind the Name “Black is naturally the color of coffee, and ‘idol’ represents several essential aspects of coffee: it’s the most consumed beverage after water, a drink of pleasure with an unrivaled range of flavors and aromas,” says Benoît Lion, the Co-Founder. This carefully chosen name reflects coffee’s cultural importance and universal appeal. It’s more than just a beverage—it’s a cherished daily ritual for millions. Black Idol taps into this global love of coffee, combining it with their mission to enhance well-being. Fighting Aging and Overweight At its core, Black Idol’s mission tackles two of the most pressing concerns of modern life: aging and excess weight. Lion explains: “Every breath releases free radicals that speed up aging, but antioxidants like green tea polyphenols can slow this. Coffee, the second most consumed drink globally, was the perfect way to deliver these benefits.” By partnering with scientists, Black Idol infused these polyphenols into coffee capsules, offering more than just a caffeine boost. Green Tea Polyphenols: Coffee with a Purpose Black Idol isn’t your average coffee brand. Its unique incorporation of green tea polyphenols turns each cup into a tool for health: “These antioxidants help burn belly and waist fat, making our second coffee in the range ideal for those struggling with weight management. This product specifically targets the 59% of European adults dealing with overweight.”In every cup, the company transforms coffee into an effortless and enjoyable way to promote long-term health and wellness. A Team of Experts What sets Black Idol apart isn’t just its product innovation but the powerhouse team behind it. Jérôme De France, the Founder of FranceToner, has over 25 years of entrepreneurial expertise, including managing logistics to optimize costs. Benoît Lion specializes in mass communication, with 25 years of experience in TV, radio, and billboard campaigns, helping retailers enhance visibility. Maxime Schipman, a digital communication expert, has worked with multiple high-growth startups that were acquired for millions.“We are a team of three experienced and complementary professionals,” Schipman emphasizes. Their combined expertise ensures that Black Idol is innovative and poised for sustainable growth. Standing Out in a Competitive Market Facing established competitors Black Idol stays confident in its unique innovation. Schipman highlights what sets Black Idol apart: “We go further with our patented process, concentrating green tea polyphenols in a liquid form, inside each capsule.”This technological edge gives them a competitive advantage, offering not just enriched coffee, but a functional beverage that addresses two significant health concerns: aging and weight gain. Expansion and Future Goals Black Idol is expanding its customer base and physical distribution, aiming to grow in France and internationally. By participating in SIAL Startup Village, the brand seeks to connect with industry leaders and unlock new opportunities. For 2024, Black Idol plans rapid retail expansion, driven by a commitment to excellence and continuous improvement. Each day brings new challenges and opportunities, reinforcing the brand’s mission to redefine coffee and enhance well-being and pleasure in every cup.

O’Taste, a startup revolutionizing food, is gaining attention with its innovative approach to taste and health. Founded in 2024, the company enhances sweet and salty flavors while reducing sugar and sodium in food products. “Our name reflects delivering taste simply and healthily,” says Guy Ben Zvl, the CEO and Founder, highlighting their mission to transform food processing. The Science Behind O’Taste’s Breakthrough O’Taste’s innovation emerged from Omega-3 research, which led to a sugar granulation process that boosts sweetness without extra sugar. Consequently, “We saw this technology’s potential for various products, including salt, creating endless possibilities,” shares ZVI. They stand out by preserving natural flavor integrity without relying on artificial additives. A Multidisciplinary Team Driving Health-Focused Innovations The team behind O’Taste comprises professionals from a wide range of disciplines, all working together toward a common goal: promoting health-conscious food trends. “We’ve assembled a top-notch team to develop the project, combining expertise from different fields,” ZVI explains. The company’s patented technology has already caught the attention of major players in the food industry, positioning the company to disrupt the market with its unique approach. Tackling Health Challenges Without Compromising Flavor O’Taste is addressing one of the food industry’s biggest challenges—reducing sugar and salt without sacrificing taste. By enhancing flavor while cutting down on harmful ingredients, they provide a solution that specifically targets industries heavily reliant on sugar and sodium. “Our technology faces no direct competition yet,” ZVI confidently says, underscoring their pioneering role in food manufacturing. Revenue is expected to be generated through raw material production and licensing the innovative technology to other food manufacturers. Preparing for European Expansion in 2025 O’Taste is already planning its expansion into Europe, with a production facility set to open in 2025. “SIAL Startup Village is ideal for networking, expanding our customer base, and meeting investors,” says ZVl. The company’s 2024 goals include setting up new production facilities and expanding its global distributor network for rapid growth. Driven by a Passion for Health-Conscious Innovations With a bold vision and groundbreaking technology, O’Taste is well-positioned to lead the next wave of health-conscious food innovations. As ZVI enthusiastically states, “Every morning, we get up to optimize our process and share sunny days with the world.” This deep-rooted passion for creating a positive impact drives the company forward in its mission to promote healthier eating through innovative technology.

Founded in 2023 in Copenhagen, Melt Corp is revolutionizing the frozen food and beverage industry with its high-quality, nutritious IceGrus products and exclusive MFM Tech mixture. Anders Lautrup-Larsen, the CEO, explains, “Melt Corp relates to our unique ability to melt frozen products, offering both convenience and freshness quickly.” This tagline, “A meltdown for the good,” perfectly captures their mission to transform the market with advanced frozen food technology. A Vision Born from Frustration Regarding Frozen Food and Beverages The inception of Melt Corp was driven by a personal frustration with subpar beverages. “I wanted to create cocktail products that rival the excellence of those from top bars,” shares Melt Corp’s founder, Serge Silveira. This vision led to a patent-pending formula, creating frozen beverages and mocktails that blend taste and convenience instantly. A Diverse and Passionate Team at Melt Corp Melt Corp’s team, based in Copenhagen, is a diverse group united by their passion for the concept. “We met through various connections and found that our different backgrounds complement each other perfectly,” Anders notes. This diverse expertise allows the team to effectively manage and innovate, ensuring their products meet high quality and functionality standards. Targeting Key B2B Sectors The company targets the B2B frozen food market, focusing on sectors such as military, sports, healthcare, cruise lines, public areas, airlines, and event venues. “Starting with these segments allows us to penetrate the market effectively and cater to diverse needs,” says the team. Melt Corp plans to expand its reach through partnerships with carefully selected agents, each managing specific geographic areas. Standing Out with Unique Technology “Our unique MFM Tech mixture sets us apart, with no direct competitors identified so far, positioning us at the industry’s forefront to meet the demand for healthier, convenient food options,” the team adds. “At Melt Corp, we take pride in offering a diverse range of frozen products, each crafted to meet the highest health and taste standards. Our lineup includes mocktails, mixed juices, shakes, smoothies, shots, and soups.” Looking Forward to 2024 Looking ahead to 2024, Melt Corp aims to scale its operations and fully make a significant market impact. “Our main goal is to be ready for a full-scale market launch,” reveals the team. “Participating in SIAL Startup Village is crucial for connecting with investors, sales agents, and manufacturers.” Each day brings the excitement of progressing toward their ambitious goals, driving the team forward with renewed energy and focus.

Founded in 2022, French startup Foodpilot is transforming the agri-food industry with an all-in-one digital solution that advances CSR, sustainability, and decarbonization. Its SaaS platform enables companies to measure, track, and manage the environmental and social impacts of their food products from farm to fork.” We identified a critical gap in accurately measuring the industry’s ecological footprint,” says Didier Livio, CEO of Foodpilot. “Our platform is designed to help businesses streamline and accelerate their sustainability efforts using real, validated data.” The Meaning Behind the Name FoodPilot The name Foodpilot reflects the company’s mission. “‘Food’ represents our sector, and ‘Pilot’ symbolizes guiding the industry toward sustainable transformation,” Didier explains. “With climate change threatening agricultural raw materials, urgent action is needed.” What Sets FoodPilot Apart from Competitors Foodpilot stands out due to its comprehensive and specialized approach. “Unlike our competitors who use spreadsheets and basic tools, we offer specialized expertise and manage large datasets effectively,” says Livio. Foodpilot tracks carbon and broader social and climate impacts, using advanced data modeling to complete gaps in datasets, making it the first European digital solution covering the entire supply chain. Expertise Driving Innovation Foodpilot’s success is driven by its expert team, which has offices in Paris, Dijon, and Montpellier. Led by professionals from the agri-food, wine, digital technologies, and data engineering sectors, Foodpilot delivers cutting-edge solutions tailored to the agri-food industry’s complex needs. “Our team’s diverse expertise makes us unique,” Didier notes. Scientific innovation is key to keeping Foodpilot’s solutions at the forefront of sustainability management. Impressive Traction and Growth Strategy With projected revenue of €1.8 million in 2024, and €1 million already secured, Foodpilot is positioned for rapid growth. The company’s participation in SIAL Startup Village highlights its ambition to scale internationally. “We applied to SIAL Startup Village to connect with global prospects, partners, and investors to support our international expansion,” says Didier. The event will serve as a key opportunity to generate business leads and partnerships. Future Goals and Ambitions Foodpilot has ambitious goals for 2024, including international expansion, enhancing its data-driven platform, and continuing to lead sustainability innovation. To achieve this, Foodpilot is actively hiring data scientists, carbon experts, and developers. “Every day, we’re motivated by the chance to drive real change in the food industry,” Didier reflects. “The work we do now is paving the way for a more sustainable future for generations to come.”

Founded in 2017, MyEasyFarm is a French agri-tech company revolutionizing agriculture with digital solutions for regenerative and precision farming. With teams in France, Italy, Brazil, and the Netherlands, their platform promotes sustainable, decarbonized farming. “Our goal is simple: Precision and sustainable farming, made easy,” says the team. Highlighting their mission to simplify data collection for an eco-friendly agricultural future. From Industry 4.0 to Smart Agriculture The inspiration behind MyEasyFarm comes from François Thierart, the CEO and Co-Founder, whose family roots in agricultural equipment manufacturing shaped his vision. Drawing on his Industry 4.0 expertise and farming background, François saw an opportunity to innovate in farm data management and interoperability. “It was natural to apply my Industry 4.0 knowledge to agriculture, given my family roots,” says François.This convergence of technology and agriculture powers MyEasyFarm’s cutting-edge software solutions designed for the future of farming. Empowering the Agri-Food Supply Chain MyEasyFarm’s platform is built to serve a diverse audience, including agrifood companies, cooperatives, carbon project developers, and farmers. “We aim to support everyone in the agri-food value chain, from cooperatives to carbon developers and farmers, “Christophe Zollner, the head of Sales explains. By offering tools that facilitate sustainable agriculture through accurate data collection and reporting, MyEasyFarm enables businesses to transition smoothly into regenerative farming practices, improving both environmental outcomes and productivity. Data Expertise and Global Reach In a competitive market, MyEasyFarm distinguishes itself through its in-depth knowledge of farm-level data and application interoperability. “Our precision farming expertise allows us to scale carbon and regenerative agriculture programs globally,” the team says, noting that their platform simplifies the process of gathering and using farm data. This specialization in scalable agriculture solutions gives MyEasyFarm a competitive edge over other MRV software providers. Building Visibility and Growth MyEasyFarm has achieved significant traction, with a 2.5X turnover increase in 2023, and is on track to double that in 2024. Their revenue comes from their SaaS platform, which has proven successful in driving both sustainability and profitability. When asked about their participation in SIAL Startup Village, François notes “SIAL is an excellent event for meeting potential customers and investors.” They expect to gain valuable leads and boost visibility within the industry, cementing their role as a key player in the agricultural tech space. Sustainability and Innovation Goals for 2024 Looking toward the future, MyEasyFarm’s primary goal for 2024 is to further enhance its sustainability efforts. “We want to be more sustainable,” they affirm, signaling their ongoing commitment to helping agriculture become more environmentally responsible. By integrating innovation with sustainable farming practices, MyEasyFarm continues to lead the global movement towards a more sustainable and regenerative agricultural industry. 📸：MyEasyFarm

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Kefir Labo Dumoulin, a French startup founded in 2020, has quickly made its mark by embracing age-old practices with a modern twist. The name itself, “Le Labo Dumoulin,” reflects their commitment to reviving traditional methods of food preparation. “Old pots make the best dishes!” says Aurélien FABAS, the CEO, reflecting their mission to revitalize ancestral practices and highlight the health benefits of water and fruit kefir in today’s diet. A Health-Conscious Vision: Why Kefir and Fermented Foods? The founders of Kefir Labo Dumoulin chose to focus on kefir because of its deep-rooted history and significant health benefits. “Taking care of your health also means reconnecting with ancestral practices that have proven their worth,” they explain. With an increasing global demand for healthy, functional foods, kefir—rich in probiotics and nutrients—emerges as a powerful solution. Their unique fermentation process amplifies the nutritional value of fruits and vegetables while infusing their products with live beneficial microorganisms, which support optimal microbiota function. Alsace’s Finest Fermentation Experts Based in Alsace, France, Kefir Labo Dumoulin boasts unique fermentation expertise that sets them apart. Their skillful process creates delicious products rich in live microorganisms and essential nutrients. “Our secret? Unique fermentation know-how that enhances fruits and vegetables,” the team explains. This positions them as leaders in organic food, particularly in specialized and short-circuit markets, driving ongoing growth. Competing in a Growing Market for Fermented Foods With rising demand for healthy, fermented beverages, Kefir Labo Dumoulin faces competition but stands out for its quality and transparency. “We lead in specialized organic and short circuit markets,” they assert. Their fruit kefir, praised for its natural probiotics, sparkling taste, and low sugar, is a staple in French organic stores. The clear, additive-free ingredient list ensures consumers receive a health-boosting elixir. Future Aspirations for Labo Dumoulin Kefir Labo Dumoulin is gearing up for a significant opportunity at the SIAL Startup Village event. The team sees this as a chance to expand their reach and connect with key buyers in the industry. “There is significant potential in the world,” they note, highlighting their ambition to grow beyond their current market. By participating in this event, they aim to forge connections that will help them tap into new markets and continue their mission of bringing the health benefits of kefir to a broader audience. With their strong foundation and clear vision, Kefir Labo Dumoulin is poised for success in the global market.

Mushroom Material is transforming the packaging industry with its eco-friendly alternative to styrofoam. “Our material matches the properties of styrofoam for impact resistance, as well as thermal and acoustic insulation while being 100% sustainable and home compostable,” explains Mushroom Material’s CEO, Shaun Seaman. This breakthrough technology, derived from mushrooms, positions Mushroom Material to meet the growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions. Using their industry-first pellet method, they can scale production using existing molding machinery, ensuring seamless integration into current supply chains. From Skepticism to Finalist Mushroom Material’s rise to becoming a finalist in JEC World’s 2023 Startup Booster competition was unexpected. “Honestly, I don’t remember hearing about the competition. I was applying for anything and everything at the time,” Seaman says. Initially doubtful about the relevance of this particular competition, the team soon realized the value of the opportunity. Attending JEC World turned out to be a game-changer. “It’s been the best event I’ve attended, with excellent organization, massive exposure, and impactful 1-on-1 meetings,” Seaman confirms. Overcoming Stage Fright The pressure of presenting at a major event like JEC World can be daunting, especially for first-time participants. “This was my first real event, so it was very intimidating,” admits Seaman. However, with the support of the JEC World team, the experience was smooth. “Huge thanks to the team—they’re fantastic people and looked after us.” Despite the nerves, the pitch led to significant connections and opportunities, proving the competition’s value to their business. Pro Tips for JEC World 2025 Participants Reflecting on their experience, Mushroom Material’s founder offers advice for future participants in JEC World’s Startup Booster competition: “Make sure you have more than one person! We were overwhelmed by the number of people who wanted to connect with us after our presentation.” Bringing a team to manage networking is crucial to making the most of the event. “If I were to do it again, I’d bring one or two more people with me,” he suggests, emphasizing the importance of leveraging the networking opportunities. JEC World’s Impact on Mushroom Material One of the most memorable moments for Mushroom Material was realizing the scale of JEC World 2023. “The event was bigger than anything New Zealand has to offer,” Seaman shares. The global exposure and the opportunity to network with industry leaders were both humbling and exciting. “It was wildly memorable and had a significant impact on us,” he says, reinforcing the importance of attending international events like JEC World for startups looking to scale. The Future of Mushroom Material in Sustainable Packaging As Mushroom Material continues to grow, the company has big plans for the future. “Styrofoam is out, Mushroom Material is in. We’ll be the new household name. Watch this space,” Seaman says. With a focus on innovation and sustainability, Mushroom Material is poised to lead the next wave of sustainable packaging in the composites industry. Over the next five years, they aim to become a key player in replacing styrofoam with environmentally friendly, compostable alternatives. Ready to take your startup to the next level? Apply for JEC World’s 2025 Startup Booster competition before the final deadline on October 28th. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain exposure, mentorship, and investment!