NOVO AgriFoodTech Acceleration Program 2026

The global food system is undergoing a profound transformation driven by frontier science and engineering. NOVO AgriFoodTech Acceleration Program is a strategic open innovation initiative created by Eatable Adventures and funded by the Diputación Foral de Bizkaia (BEAZ).

Key Focus Verticals:

1. Applied Biotechnology: Fermentation technologies, precision bio-ingredients, functional food systems, and alternative proteins.

2. Artificial Intelligence: Production optimization, supply chain forecasting, demand modeling, quality control, and traceability.

3. Advanced Materials: Sustainable/active food packaging, edible coatings, and bio-based barrier materials.

4. Robotics & Advanced Automation: Industrial food processing, automated harvesting, smart sorting, and precision agriculture.

5. Quantum Computing: Complex supply chain modeling, molecular simulation, and food system optimization.

We are seeking visionary founders and deeptech startups who:

• Possess proprietary, breakthrough technology or IP validated in a laboratory or pilot scale (TRL 4-7).

• Are looking to validate, test, or deploy industrial pilots with major European food and industrial corporations.

• Are seeking international growth, access to specialized agrifood VC capital, and strategic expansion into the European market via Bizkaia's thriving innovation hub.

• Feature a dedicated, multidisciplinary founding team with strong technical, scientific, or execution capabilities

The 10 selected startups will receive a comprehensive support package valued for market growth, with zero equity required upfront for program entry:

• Direct Corporate Pilot Opportunities: Tailored matching and guaranteed structured B2B meetings with leading Basque food corporates to explore and negotiate paid pilots, PoCs, or LOIs/MOUs.

• Scientific & Technical Validation: Direct access and technical mentoring with renowned scientific and technological centers.

• Dedicated 1:1 Mentoring: Over 24 hours of tailored 1:1 mentoring per startup led by global C-level mentors, VC investors, and deeptech experts.

• BAT Workspace & Ecosystem Access: Workspaces and landing facilities at BAT – B Accelerator Tower in Bilbao, one of Europe's premier innovation hubs.

• Investment Readiness & Investor Day: Specialized investment coaching and direct pitching opportunities to Accelera Ventures (€30M agrifood fund), regional VC funds (e.g., Seed Capital Bizkaia, Laboral Kutxa), family offices, and European VCs.

• Soft-Landing & Anchoring Support: Dedicated guidance from BEAZ and local partners to explore establishing legal entities, subsidiaries, or R&D units in Bizkaia