FOOD PROGRAMS
Entrepreneurship
FOOD PIONEERS PROGRAM
A six-month program for food entrepreneurs
Are you a food startup with a (nearly) market-ready product and first revenue (or clear short-term visibility on revenue)? And do you want to accelerate your growth with training, coaching and a strong network of founders and experts? Then the Food Pioneers Program 2026 is the place to take your next step.
New in 2026: the program evolves into a full-scale incubator. Alongside workshops, coaching and community, you’ll have the chance to secure €240,000 in growth capital, distributed among 3 to 5 participating startups during the finale.
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Start: Thursday, 16 April 2026
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Finale: Thursday, 8 October 2026 (live pitch event)
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Maximum: 20 startups
The program is part of our broader Food Programs.
Registration for the Food Pioneers Program 2026 is now closed. Thank you for all your applications and interest. We have begun the selection process behind the scenes. Applicants will hear more in early April.
Grow your food business with expert support
Food Pioneers supports food entrepreneurship through a six-month program that combines coaching, workshops and community building. Our mission is to accelerate sustainable food innovation and strengthen the food ecosystem.
Why this matters
The global food transition requires more than new products. It calls for new ways of doing business and collaborating. Through practical programs and strong networks, we help entrepreneurs create real impact and strengthen their position in the market.
From idea to pitch
During the Food Pioneers Program, you’ll benefit from:
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Workshops on growth, business modelling, finance and free publicity
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Deep-dive sessions, such as In the Mind of the Buyer
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1-on-1 coaching and sparring with a professional team
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Access to the networks of Food Pioneers and partners (incl. SOL, Broccoli, Kitchen Republic)
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Learning with peers: you’ll work alongside up to 19 other founders, share challenges and receive feedback
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Finale pitch event (8 October): pitch live to an expert jury and a relevant audience, designed to create partnerships, pilots, listings and visibility
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Chance to secure growth capital: during the finale, 3 to 5 winners will be selected who together receive €240,000 in growth capital
In addition, there are feedback sessions and networking moments. You’re in the lead; we’re here to support you.
Our ambition
With the Food Pioneers Program, we are building an infrastructure for sustainable food entrepreneurship. Participants grow in business development, product innovation and networking, while contributing to the food transition across the chain. After completing the program, you become part of the Food Pioneers community for the long term.
Program structure and dates
Six shared program days
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Thursday, 16 April 2026
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Thursday, 21 May 2026
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Thursday, 18 June 2026
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Thursday, 27 August 2026
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Thursday, 17 September 2026
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Thursday, 8 October 2026 – finale & live pitch event
Fee and value
Participation fee: €975 (one-time), plus a creative contribution agreed with the team.
In return, you receive a program worth €7,500+ in workshops, coaching, network and exposure.
Eligibility
Entrepreneurs can apply if they:
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Run a food start-up with first revenue, or have a clear line of sight to first revenue
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Have a near market-ready product and the capacity to deliver
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Commit to full attendance at all program days
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Are motivated to grow in an English-speaking entrepreneurial community
Who can apply
Get involved
Ready to accelerate? Become one of the maximum 20 participants and take your startup to the next phase.