Finnish food group Valio has teamed up with local innovation specialist VTT and the University of Helsinki to launch a new accelerator.
It is intended to help food industry start-ups grow fast and reach the international market.
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The accelerator is part of European network of six accelerators, EIT FAN, the aim of which is to promote a sustainable food system.
VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland is a state-owned and controlled non-profit limited liability company. It provides research and innovation services and information for domestic and international customers and partners, both in private and public sectors.
VTT’s co-creation manager Mirva Lampinen said: “In the new accelerator led by VTT, start-up teams will be mentored and coached by experienced professionals from food research, production and marketing.
“At the same time, these experts can familiarise themselves with the world of start-ups. We expect the accelerator to consolidate the network of food industry companies and contribute to the success of Finnish companies on the international market. At best, the accelerator will also attract foreign start-ups and investments to Finland.”
Cooperation between three partners is intended to ensure that the accelerator will cover all areas of a sustainable food system. The University of Helsinki can provide, among other things, agricultural and nutrition research and Valio supplies knowledge of food product commercialisation and dairy product know-how.
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