Future proteins for sustainable food systems
2022-11-11 14:30 - 16:30 (Europe/Zurich) | World Food System Center, Main Building, ETH Zürich, Rämistrasse 101,, Zürich, 8006, Switzerland
Register now

This workshop is part of the Food Day @ETH 2022. “Future Proteins for sustainable food systems” is co-hosted by the World Food System Center and Swiss Food and Nutrition Valley. The protein sector is in the midst of rapid development. There is a need to accelerate the diversification of protein sources that are sustainable, scalable, and benefit consumers health. In this workshop, you will hear from ETH Zurich scientists and start-ups about new innovative approaches in the future protein sector. You will also get the chance to discuss with other participants and share your views on some of the most pressing protein challenges.
Speakers

Ashley Green, Sustainable Food Processing, ETH Zürich
Mingqin Li, Future Food Fellow, Laboratory of Food and Soft Materials, ETH Zürich
Tobias Kistler, Co-Founder and R&D Lead, Luya
Eliana Zamprogna, Co-Founder Yumame Foods
Tomas Turner, Co-Founder Cultivated Bioscience

Main Building, ETH Zürich, Rämistrasse 101, 8006 Zürich
This event is free, but places are limited. So register now!

Register now

FoodTech startups opportunities in Israel: conversation & apéro (Lausanne)
2023-01-16 18:00 - 20:30 (Europe/Zurich) | Impact Hub Lausanne, Beaulieu Circulaire, Av. Bergières 10, Lausanne, 1004, Switzerland
Come join us in Lausanne for an open conversation about the opportunities that Swiss Food and AgTech startups can find in Israel
Israel is well known for its thriving startup ecosystem. This spring, Swiss Food and AgTech startups will have the opportunity to get to know and connect with its main players, both online and in person. Application time for the Swiss-Israel Lean Launchpad programme is about to begin but before it does, we want to meet. More info soon…
We also have a meeting in Zurich on Jan 17. To sign up for that one please click here.
For further queries contact: noga.ehrlich@eda.admin.ch

Register now

FoodTech startups opportunities in Israel: conversation & apéro (Zurich)
2023-01-17 18:00 - 20:30 (Europe/Zurich) | Kraftwerk, 25 Selnaustrasse, Zurich, 8001
Come join us in Zurich for an open conversation about the opportunities that Swiss Food and AgTech startups can find in Israel
Israel is well known for its thriving startup ecosystem. This spring, Swiss Food and AgTech startups will have the opportunity to get to know and connect with its main players, both online and in person. Application time for the Swiss-Israel Lean Launchpad programme is about to begin but before it does, we want to meet. More info coming soon…
We also have a meeting in Lausanne on Jan 16. To sign up for that one please click here.
Contact us at: noga.ehrlich@eda.admin.ch

Register now

How Space Tech Can Shape The Future of Farming
2023-01-31 13:00 - 17:00 (Europe/Zurich) | Impact Hub Lausanne, Beaulieu Circulaire, Av. Bergières 10, Lausanne, 1004, Switzerland
Swiss Food & Nutrition Valley is co-hosting a workshop session with Space4Impact on How Space Tech can shape the Future of Farming. This workshop brings together space startups, corporations, academics, investors, and partners to learn more about innovative solutions in the agriculture and food industry.
You will gain insights from startups about how satellite data can provide real-time information on soil conditions, crops yield, water intake, and more. The workshop will be dedicated to knowledge exchange and provide opportunities to potentially collaborate and develop future projects.
Seats for this workshop are limited and SFNV Partners are required to pre-register for this event. We are offering Valley partners that work in this field a free seat, any interest can be communicated to the Space4Impact team whereby we can issue a promotional code. Additional seats as well as tickets for non-SFNV partners can be purchased for CHF 500 below.
13:00-13:45 Opening Session

Opening by Christina Senn-Jakobsen, Swiss Food & Nutrition Valley
Digitalisation of the Food Systems by Christian Schwab, EPFL
Presentation by Gaetan Petit, Space4Impact
Presentation by Raphaël Conz, Etat de Vaud

13:45-14:30 Roundtable Introduction
Introduction & exchange at roundtable
14:30-15:15 Coffee Break
Networking & presentation by Insolight
15:15-16:00 Pitch Session

Trade in Space
Aerospacelab
Aero41
GeoOptics Switzerland
OroraTech
3IPK
Space4Good

16:00-17:00 Apéro
Closing remarks by Felix Stähli, Impact Hub Lausanne
Networking session

How and why to invest in Foodtech?
2023-02-16 12:00 - 13:00 (Europe/Zurich) | Online event
2023 could be the best year yet to invest in Foodtech.
What are the risks and opportunities when investing in Foodtech startups?
Foodtech attracted nearly CHF 87 million in investments in 2022 according to Top 100 Swiss Startups. Foodtech is a sector of which we have only seen the tip of the iceberg and which will undoubtedly grow strongly in the coming years.
– Why is now the right time to invest in foodtech?
– How does the growth journey and life cycle of a foodtech company look like?
– Why is Switzerland the right place for foodtech startups?
– What are the ecosystem actors that investors need to know?
Learn more about why to invest in Foodtech startups at the webinar with Françoise Birnholz, SICTIC Angel Investor and Dr. Daniel Böhi, Co-Founder and Member of the Supervisory Board at Alphorn Venture Partners, hosted by SICTIC and supported by Swiss Food & Nutrition Valley.

Register now

SICTIC Investor Day FoodTech
2023-03-09 17:00 - 21:00 (Europe/Zurich)
Swiss Food & Nutrition Valley have partnered with SICTIC Investor Day – a matchmaking event where tech startups pitch for funding in front of experienced investors and supporters. As part of its 2023 development, SICTIC is expanding into new verticals to offer investors new investment opportunities and flavours! Come join us on March 9th for its first FoodTech event co-organised with the Swiss Food and Nutrition Valley and Alphorn Ventures! We are thrilled to explore this new vertical with SICTIC and as a part of the event, a special apéro around FoodTech will be held afterwards.
Agenda
16:30 – Registration (On-Site Attendees)17:00 – Welcome & Intro17:15 – Keynote Speakers
Overview of FoodTech ecosystem in CHChristina Senn-Jakobsen, Managing Director – Swiss Food Nutrition Valley
Why is now the best time to invest in FoodTech Matteo Parenti, Director – Blue Horizon
17:30 – Panel discussion: The Future of Foodtech. Why Investors should Pay Attention!
Speakers:Dr. Daniel Böhi, Co-Founder and Member of the Supervisory Board at Alphorn Venture Partners;
Emi (Hidemi) Naganuma, Founding General Partner & CEO at Apprecia Capital;
Emilie Dellecker, Co-founder at HackCapital, Head of Marketing & Community at FoodHack and ClimateHack;
Françoise Birnholz, SICTIC Angel Investor
Mark Leinemann, Founder & President crowdfoods – Food Entrepreneur & Startup Association (FESA)
Moderator: Thomas Ackermann, Managing Director at SICTIC
17:50 – 18:00 – Break
18:00 – 5 min Startup Pitching Session + 3 min Q&A19:00 – Instant Matchmaking, closing remarks19:10 – Networking Apero / Livestream ends20:30 – Event ends
The event language is english. Questions from the audience are also taken in French and German (and translated if necessary). Please note that this will be a hybrid event, so you can either choose to join on-site or from the comfort of your home. On-site tickets are limited and available on a first come first serve basis.

Register now

Valley After Hours: Accelerating Corporate and Early Stage Startup Collaborations in the Swiss Food-Tech Industry
2023-03-14 18:00 - 20:30 (Europe/Zurich) | Nestlé R+D Accelerator, Rte du Jorat 57, Lausanne, 1000, Switzerland
Valley After Hours is the ultimate networking event hosted by partners for partners in collaboration with Swiss Food Nutrition Valley. This particular After Hours is co-hosted with The Accelerator powered by Nestlé R+D. Expect to meet key partners and stakeholders from the Swiss food tech ecosystem, inspire them, be inspired, and gain knowledge with a deeper understanding of what the host partner does. This is a unique open-door opportunity to evolve professional relationships in an informal setting.
Agenda
18:00 Registration
18:30 Welcome from Swiss Food & Nutrition Valley
Christina Senn-Jakobsen, Managing Director, SFNV
18:40 Welcome from Nestlé R&D
Stefan Palzer, Chief Technology Officer, Nestlé S.A.
18:50 R+D Accelerator Program for Startups
Mar Serra, Nestlé Research Accelerator Lead
Susana Reber, Nestlé Research Startup Program Lead
19:10 Startup pitches

Embion Technologies
Terra Preta
Ubees
Bloom

19:40 Partner exchange & apéro
20:30 End of event
Please note this is a Valley partners & by invitation only event. Registrations list closes 8th March, 17:00. Max. 2 guests per organisation. Email: suki@sfnv.ch for any questions.

SWITZERLAND-SPAIN FOODTECH ECOSYSTEM SESSIONS 2023 - Online
2023-04-27 10:00 - 12:00 (Europe/Zurich) | Online event
What’s on
The Foodtech industry in Spain is experiencing a significant transformation towards more sustainable and efficient projects, aided by public and private support at regional and national levels. The Foodtech sector in Spain saw a rise of up to €268M in 2022, representing a 9.38% increase since the previous year. This includes a notable increase from 407 to 412 startups in the past year, alongside over 30,000 companies engaged in food transformation and more than 50 specialized universities and 20 advanced technology centers.
This will be the first edition of our pitching webinar of Spanish startups with key actors from the Swiss Foodtech ecosystem, in cooperation with the Swiss Food & Nutrition Valley (SFNV).
Register here
The six pitching Spanish startups encompass a broad range of the Foodtech industry:

Blue Marine Oil. Premium ingredients for petfood from top-quality fish by-products.
Nucaps Nanotechnology. Encapsulation technology for the industrial development of nanocapsules and biocapsules for bioactives and probiotics.
Néboda Farms. Vertical indoor farming company that produces and trades leafy vegetables and aromatic herbs, Alife aromatic plants, microgreens and mezclum.
TasteLab. Technology company that has designed SENSESBIT, a software that provides support in sensory analysis, adapted to the needs of each sector for companies that want to put the focus on the consumer and manage their own studies autonomously.
Algas La Patrona. Producers of hand-harvested seaweed (kombu, wakame, sea spaghetti, sea lettuce and codium seaweed, both dehydrated and fresh in salt).
Vegasauria. Manufacturer of 100% plant-based cheeses in an artisan way using traditional cheese-making techniques and ferments.

If you’re interested in delving deeper into the current state and challenges of the country’s food sector, download the complete report HERE.

The Swiss food industry is one of the largest and most diversified in Europe, with an estimated market value of CHF 80 billion and 2.6 billion being invested in innovation each year. In the last 5 years, the number of foodtech companies in Switzerland has increased by 70%.
In a nutshell, the Spanish and Swiss foodtech ecosystem are vibrant and driven by quality, innovation, venture capital investment and government support, making both countries attractive places for companies and start-ups, so please join our webinar!

SFNV Valley After Hours co-hosted by Givaudan
2023-09-11 16:30 - 20:30 (Europe/Zurich) | Givaudan, Givaudan International AG, Kemptpark 50,, Kemptthal, Zurich, 8310, Switzerland
We have partnered with Givaudan for our next Valley After Hours on September 11th. This exclusive networking event will be a treat to your senses and includes demos, tastings and a sensorial experience plus a short onsite tour with a visit to fellow SFNV partners Planted and some power pitches from Valley partners including House of Lab Sciences, Farmers Connect & The Cultured Hub plus more.
Valley After Hours is curated by SFNV partners for SFNV partners to amplify networking and collaboration opportunities in an informal setting. Expect to meet a mix of SFNV partners, investors, industry experts, and a room full of curious minds from the Swiss food tech ecosystem.
When you get to Givaudan head to the Innovation Centre for registration. Here is a useful information guide.
Agenda
16:30 – 17:00 – Arrival & Registration
17:00 – 17:10 – Welcome & Opening
Christina Senn-Jakobsen, Managing Director, SFNV
Fabio Campanile, Head of Science & Technology, Taste & Wellbeing
Alexandre Bastos, Head of Open Innovation, Startups & Ventures, Taste & Wellbeing
17:10 – 17:30 – Keynote : Olivia Eudot, Flavorist – Givaudan
17:30 – 18:50 – ZIC Tour : The Wonders of Taste
18:50 – 19:30 – The Valley Tour : Inside planted, a walk by The Cultured Hub, The House of Labs
19:30 – 20:45 – Power Pitches, Apéro, Networking
This event is by invitation only. The guest list is now closed.
Suki – on behalf of your SFNV team

Meet Israeli Startups showcasing FoodTech trends & latest technologies
2023-09-20 10:00 - 14:00 (Europe/Zurich) | Impact Hub Lausanne, Beaulieu Circulaire, Av. Bergières 10, Lausanne, 1004, Switzerland
We invite SFNV partners to join us on 20th September in Lausanne, as Swiss Food & Nutrition Valley and the Israel Economic and Trade Mission host a delegation of Israeli FoodTech startups showcasing the latest technologies. To view the catalogue of startups and companies click this link, and to schedule a meeting please make a request using this form. This lunch event will include presentations on FoodTech trends and the vibrant Israeli ecosystem for innovation in food, startup pitches with solutions spanning multiple facets of the industry, and networking opportunities with Swiss corporations, Israeli startups, investors and more.
This enriching experience will touch upon some of the most topical issues in the FoodTech sector, including alternative protein, fermentation, sustainable packaging and Food Systems 4.0. The event will host the Head of the Israeli National Program on Alternative Proteins and the Head of the FoodTech Division at the Israel Export Institute.
Agenda
10:00 Coffee & Arrivals
10.30 Opening remarks with special guests including representatives from the Israeli Economic and Trade Mission
Christina Senn – Jakobsen, Managing Director, Swiss Food & Nutrition Valley
Raphaël Conz, Managing Director, Office for Economic Affairs and Innovation (SPEI), Canton of Vaud
Chamber of Commerce Switzerland-Israel
10:40 Presentation by Ms. Ronit Eshel, Head of the Israeli National Program for Alternative Proteins, Israel Innovation Authority, on call for proposal
10:50 Ms. Adi Teicher, Head of Foodtech at Israel Export Institute, presentation on development of FoodTech
10:55 Israel Startups Pitch
11:45 Summary
12:00 Lunch & Networking
12.30 Scheduled matchmaking sessions open during lunch interval
14:00 Close
We look forward to welcoming you to this event as we delve into the future of food! This event is by invitation only. Please contact the Valley team at events@sfnv.ch or the Israeli Economic and Trade Mission to Switzerland per email in order to be registered for the event.
We would like to inform you that pictures will be taken at the event. Please contact us if you wish not to be photographed, and you will be omitted from the event photography.

JOINT EVENT AT HES-SO VALAIS/WALLIS
2023-11-09 13:30 - 17:00 (Europe/Zurich) | HES-SO Valais/Wallis, Rue de l'Industrie 19, Sion, Valais, 1950, Switzerland
On 9 November, prepare for an exceptional day at the HES-SO Valais/Wallis. This event, co-organized with our partner Star’Terre, invites you to explore the horizons of education and innovation.
Throughout the afternoon, discover a program packed with knowledge and discoveries. Fascinating presentations of academic programs and current research will take you to the heart of technological and scientific advances.
A tour of the facilities, including the Analytical Chemistry Platform, the Pilot Plant, and the Sensory and Prototyping Kitchen, will immerse you in science, technology, and creativity. You will discover how these spaces contribute to innovation daily.
The event will culminate in company testimonials, offering a glimpse into the professional world and the real challenges industry players face. The day will close with a convivial aperitif, a perfect opportunity to discuss, network, and extend inspiring conversations.
Join us on 9 November for a day of discovery, learning, and sharing at the HES-SO Valais/Wallis. It’s a chance to broaden your horizons and connect with minds as curious as your own.

A unifying and friendly event to celebrate the end of 2023
2023-11-22 13:30 - 19:00 (Europe/Zurich) | Domaine Notre-Dame de la Route, Chemin des Eaux Vives 17, Villars-sur-Glâne, Fribourg, 1752, Switzerland
The Cluster Food & Nutrition and SVIAL-ASIAT invite you to an exciting afternoon at Domaine Notre-Dame de la Route!
Take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to:
• Meet the new members who have joined the Cluster Food & Nutrition in recent months, and they will introduce themselves with a 3-minute pitch
• Discover Domaine Notre-Dame de la Route, an oasis of tranquility in the heart of the Fribourg area where professional reintegration goes hand in hand with respect for nature
• Understand how existing science can debunk myths and support companies in developing and highlighting their contributions in the fields of nutrition and sustainability
• Network with members of the Cluster Food & Nutrition and SVIAL-ASIAT during a friendly aperitif
Registration deadline: November 15, 2023
We look forward to welcoming many of you to this event, which will bring together a diverse range of stakeholders in the agri-food ecosystem.

Joint Event Cluster Food & Nutrition x IT Valley
2024-03-12 13:30 - 18:00 (Europe/Zurich) | L’Atelier, Pl. de Notre Dame 16, Fribourg, 1700, Switzerland
On March 12, join us for an immersive afternoon at L’Atelier (formerly the Gutenberg Museum), where the convergence of food and IT will come to life at our event in close collaboration with IT Valley.
The Food & Nutrition Cluster, working in the agri-food sector since 2015, has established itself as a regional and national networking platform. Its mission, rooted in sustainability and innovation, aims to strengthen collaboration between players in the agri-food ecosystem. IT Valley, for its part, federates information and communication technology professionals. By promoting the exchange of knowledge and skills, the association boosts the competitiveness of regional SMEs and encourages the transfer of knowledge between academic and business circles.
From 1:30pm, immerse yourself in a captivating experience with a warm welcome and introductory words, illustrating our shared commitment to creating a strong, sustainable and innovative ecosystem. The day will revolve around carefully thought-out activities, offering a glimpse of the new faces of the Food Cluster through dynamic pitches.
Engage in a round-table discussion dedicated to digitalization in the agri-food sector, exploring the opportunities offered by this convergence. The coffee break will be a privileged moment to exchange ideas and forge links with the players present. The second half of the afternoon will highlight an IT project in the agri-food sector, bringing together academic and industrial skills.
IT Valley members will then share their expertise through 3-minute pitches, unveiling their innovative projects. Finally, round off this enriching day with a networking aperitif, while discovering the exhibition by artist Julien Kolly, establishing a captivating link with digital art.
Our event is more than just a get-together. It’s an opportunity to create synergies, foster innovation and build lasting relationships between the worlds of agrifood and IT. Come and share your ideas, explore new perspectives and contribute to the emergence of a promising agri-food and technological future. We look forward to welcoming you to a day of collaboration, goodwill and discovery.

Imagining the Packaging of the Future: Sustainable Solutions Unwrapped 1.0
2024-06-11 09:30 - 15:00 (Europe/Zurich) | BERNEXPO AG, Mingerstrasse 6, Bern, Bern, 3000, Switzerland
The Valley’s State of Play events bring together the Swiss food innovation ecosystem to explore the opportunities related to key Impact Platform topics. This time, together with Valley partners Nestlé and Tetra Pak, we’ll be taking a deep dive into the world of sustainable materials for packaging.
The issue
Since 2015, the global population has increased by 10%, while the global economy has consumed 70% more materials than what the planet can replenish. As little as 8.6% of materials abstracted are currently repurposed. A shift from the current model – “take-make-waste” – to a circular economy is needed to tackle climate change, biodiversity loss, waste and pollution.
The opportunity
Sustainable packaging is a multifaceted opportunity for a more sustainable food system with various environmental, social, and economic dimensions. It involves knowledge sharing and collaboration among different stakeholders, including manufacturers, retailers, consumers, and policymakers, to work towards reducing the overall environmental impact of packaging materials and processes.
Why you should join us
This event will take a deep dive into the world of sustainable materials for packaging, exploring current innovations in alternatives to wood fibres for paper substrates and high-performing bio-based polymers, enabling knowledge sharing and networking, and identifying the most promising business opportunities and areas for collaboration between ecosystem actors. It will also bring together leading Swiss and EU experts and Swiss and international startups who will pitch during the event.

The Agenda
09:30 Coffee & Networking
10:00 Welcome & Desired OutcomesFood packaging, planetary boundaries and Switzerland’s roleChristina Senn-Jakobsen, CEO – Swiss Food & Nutrition Valley
10:10 State of Play of Sustainable Packaging Trends & Challenges, Q&AFelix Grünewald, Partner, McKinsey
10:50 Overview of Research & Innovation in Packaging & Sustainable Materials; Q&A
Alternative Fibres
Nanocellulose from residual biomass for food packaging applicationDr. Gilberto Siqueira, Research Scientist, Empa
Alternative high-performing bio-based polymers
Side streams of agri-food Industry as an alternative packaging materialProf. Dr. Selçuk Yildirim, ZHAW School of Life Sciences and Facility Management, Centre for Food Production and Packaging
11:20 Break: Coffee to go
11:30 The EU Policy & Regulatory Context: the “Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation” : what implications?; Q&AHazel O’Keeffe, Partner, Keller and Heckman LLP
12:10 Swiss Food & Nutrition Valley Partners: “Sustainable Packaging: the way ahead”Ingemar Jacobsson, Director Material Solutions, Development & Technology, Tetra PakRob Hoitink, R&D Packaging Lead, Nestlé
12:30 Lunch & poster session for startups & academic innovation
13:30 Focus on solutions – Introduction
Christina Senn-Jakobsen, CEO, Swiss Food & Nutrition Valley
13:35 “Modification of Polymers for High Performance Sustainable Plastics Solutions” (10’)
Prof. Holger Frauenrath, Laboratory of Macromolecular and Organic Materials (LMOM), Institute of Materials (IMX) at EPFL
13:45 “Recent advances in R&D&I to further drive the implementations toward a bioeconomy”
Prof. Tomas Anderson, Head of Key Accounts, RISE
13:55 Q&A
14:05 Pitches from start-ups
14:40 Interactive session
15:00 Open mic discussion from all groups
15:15 Final remarks, lessons learnt & next steps
Ingemar Jacobsson, Director Material Solutions, Development & Technology, Tetra Pak
Rob Hoitink, R&D Packaging Lead, Nestlé
Christina Senn-Jakobsen, CEO – Swiss Food & Nutrition Valley
15:30 End
With support from : Bern Economic Development Agency
GETTING THERE:
BERNEXPO, Entrance A
See general map of the venue and more specific details to access Entrance A and Parking
For those arriving by car : parking rates are: first hour CHF 4.00, CHF 2.00 per additional 30 minutes. daily maximum for 24 hours CHF 38.00
For those arriving by train/tramt the nearest station is Wankdorf Center (3 min walk)

SFNV Valley After Hours at Grangeneuve, co-hosted with État de Fribourg & Agroscope
2024-07-02 16:30 - 19:30 (Europe/Zurich) | Grangeneuve, Rte de Grangeneuve 31, Posieux, Fribourg, 1725, Switzerland
Join us for Valley After Hours at beautiful Grangeneuve co-hosted with État de Fribourg and Agroscope on Tuesday July 2. This exclusive networking event will be a treat to engage your minds in the dynamics of Agrifood systems plus a short onsite tour of the Grangeneuve infrastructure.
Valley After Hours is curated by SFNV partners for SFNV partners to amplify networking and collaboration opportunities in an informal setting. Expect to meet a mix of SFNV partners, investors, industry experts, and a room full of curious minds from the Swiss food tech ecosystem.
How to get there? Here is a useful site map to find your way.
Meeting point is at the main building : R – Acceuil
Agenda
16:30 – Arrival, coffee & refreshments
16:45 – Welcome by SFNV & presentations

“Agroscope – The National Competence Center for Research in the Agriculture and Food Sector – an overview about our system approach in research and a glimpse into the future with exciting new capabilities at our new research campus in Posieux”

Mr. Fabian Wahl, Head of “Food Microbial Systems” Research Division, Agroscope

“The future of the dairy industry in the Canton of Fribourg”

Mr. Pascal Toffel, Director and Mr. Thomas Rime, Head of the Development and Innovation sector, Grangeneuve

“Fribourg Agri & Food strategy, the interplay of public policies at federal, cantonal and municipal levels supporting the development of an exemplary food ecosystem”

Mr. Jerry Krattiger, Director, Fribourg Development Agency
17:20 – Round Table: the future of dairy in the context of an evolving food system
18:00 – Grangeneuve Site-visit
18:40 – Networking – Apéro offered by Grangeneuve’s kitchen with the label “Fourchette verte” and is approved “Terroir Fribourg”
19:30 – End of event
For any questions, contact events@sfnv.ch

Wonders of Taste and SFNV Valley After Hours hosted by Givaudan
2024-09-09 14:00 - 20:30 (Europe/Zurich) | Givaudan International, Kemptpark 50, Kemptthal, 8310, Switzerland
AGENDA
Part 1: Wonders of Taste by Givaudan
14:00 – Arrival & Registration
14:15 – The Wonders of Taste Opening
Welcome by Alex Bastos, Givaudan Head Front End Innovation
14:30 – Masschallenge Startups to convince the Shark Tank
Selected startups come back, now with tailored and sharp pitches: Specialty novel ingredients, micro-algae, fermentation, cost effective tools, upcycling, nutrition, sustainable materials and more

AlgaeforFood
Angry Camel
CellX Biosolutions
EcoBean
FOTORTEC
Change Bio
Seaqure labs
Myriad Optics
Reify Nutrition
Rosalind Bioculture
Updairy
Veritas
Yeastime

16:00 – How to REALLY accelerate foodtech nowadays
A panel discussion between startups, investors and corporates on how to move the needle and create more successful storiesClosing & Thank you’s
16:30 – Networking
Startups, accelerators, investors, B2C, B2B corporate innovators

Part 2: SFNV Valley After Hours
16:45 – Arrival & Registration
17:00 – Swiss Food & Nutrition Valley After Hours
Welcome by Christina Senn-Jakobsen, CEO, SFNV
17:10 – Keynote :: Back to the Future… of Food
Sarah Diaz, Global Marketing Manager Culinary, Givaudan will present an exciting and inspiring trip to the future, leveraging the latest AI based futurescaping platforms of Givaudan, looking at trends and weak signals which will shape up the food of the future
17:30 – SFNV Power-pitches
Hear from SFNV Startups for 1 min pitches and have the opportunity to network and try samples during the apéro.

Actidot
Cleangreens
foodflows
Saya Suka

17:40 – ZIC Tour :: Travelling to the Future
An exciting tour through the Givaudan Zurich Innovation Center, its capabilities, tools, products and technologies emerging and designing what consumers may be eating in the future
19:00 – Apéro, Networking & Power Pitches
Attention to Valley Partners : Do you want to take part in informal power pitches? Do you want to contribute some tasty samples or products during the apéro? Please contact us and let’s make it happen.
About Valley After Hours: a curated event by SFNV partners for SFNV partners to amplify networking and collaboration opportunities in an informal setting. Expect to meet a mix of industry experts from large enterprises, academia, innovation enablers, SME’s and a room full of curious minds from the Swiss food tech ecosystem. The power of this event will not be in a PowerPoint but in the interactive in-person networking exchange. It is also an opportunity for the hosts to spotlight their organisation and give a sneak peek into innovation worth sharing.
Would you like to host the next Valley After Hours? Please reach out to our team !

ZFV-Living Lab Innovation Call | Online
2024-09-16 10:00 - 12:00 (Europe/Zurich) | Online event
Agenda
1. Welcome and Introduction
Presented by Katarzyna Winek, Swiss Food & Nutrition Valley
2. ZFV Operations – Understand the daily business of gastronomy and the hotel industry and its challenges
Presented by Christian Gerber, ZFV-Unternehmungen
3. ZFV-Living Lab (ZLL) – Project Presentation
Presented by Christian Gerber, ZFV-Unternehmungen
4. Startup Presentations – 1 minute elevator pitch per startup

Establishing the connection to the ZFV business
Discussion: How can your solution help ZFV?
Evaluating the relevance of the solution

5. Discussion and Q&A
6. Conclusion and Next Steps

ZFV-Living Lab Innovation Call | Online
2024-09-30 14:00 - 16:00 (Europe/Zurich) | https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84699166920

Food Day @ETH Workshop: Ultra-Processed Foods: Myths, Facts, and Future Role
2024-10-30 14:00 - 16:30 (Europe/Zurich)
Register HERE
In collaboration with Food Day @ETH: For researchers, industry, start-ups & investors with expert knowledge or interest in ultra-processed foods.
The debate over Ultra-Processed Foods (UPFs) often polarizes into two extremes: outright rejection of UPFs as harmful or full acceptance due to their practicality. During the interactive workshop around this complex issue, experts will shed light on both aspects, providing insights into the multifaceted nature of UPFs, and participants will be encouraged to engage actively in the dialogue.
Key questions that will be explored include: What are the scientific facts and misconceptions about the health impacts of UPFs? How can UPFs contribute to global food security, and what risks do they pose? What regulatory frameworks are necessary to ensure their safe and ethical production and consumption? What drives the increasing consumption of UPFs, and what strategies can be employed to promote healthier alternatives? Finally, what innovations can make UPFs both healthier and more environmentally sustainable?
This workshop offers all the opportunity to collaboratively address the challenges and opportunities that UPFs present. The goal is to ensure equitable access to safe, nutritious, and affordable food while considering the broader implications for global food systems. Through thoughtful exploration of health, regulation, food security, and innovation, the workshop aims to advance understanding of the role of UPFs in our diets.
Register HERE

State of Play Cultured Foods 2.0
2024-12-04 09:30 - 16:00 (Europe/Zurich) | Motorworld – The Valley Eventfactory, Kemptpark 3, Kemptthal, Zurich, 8310, Switzerland
Cultured foods offer a promising solution to some of the most pressing food system challenges. They also present a very significant market opportunity: experts predict that by 2050 cultured food could be a $1.1 trillion dollar industry, creating 9.8 million new jobs globally.
Since our first State of Play event back in 2023, the trends, technologies and legislative environment in this space have continued to evolve and many Swiss Food & Nutrition Valley partners are now actively involved in developing new solutions in this space.
At the same time, The Cultured Hub, a “Scale-up as a service” facility, jointly created by Valley partners Bühler and Givaudan, together with Migros, is now ready to open its doors.
Our second State of Play event will bring Swiss and international experts together again to consider what we can do to accelerate cultured food to market.
Programme
09:30 – Welcome & Networking Coffee
SETTING THE SCENE
10:00 – Welcome to Cultured Food 2.0, Christina Senn-Jakobsen, CEO, Swiss Food & Nutrition Valley
10:10 – The Swiss vision for cultured foods, Yannick Gächter, CEO, The Cultured Hub
10:20 – From policy to plate: Legal developments for novel foods in Switzerland, Ralph Langholz, Swiss Protein Association
10:30 – The global lens: Where are we heading? Carlotte Lucas, Head of Industry, The Good Food Institute Europe
10:40 – Audience Q&A, &Discussion with speakers
10:55 – Networking break
11:10 – When tradition meets innovation, campfire discussion with Illtud Dunsford, CEO and CoFounder of Cellular Agriculture Ltd
11:45 – Networking Lunch
DISCOVERING PERSPECTIVES
13:00 – Consumer Acceptance: Cultured Food vs Food Culture, Christine Schäfer, Senior Researcher, GDI Gottlieb Duttweiler Institute
13:20 – A Swiss startup’s journey, Simona Fehlmann, Co-Founder & CEO, Sallea
13:40 – Savoring Innovation: The Journey and Taste of Cultivated Meat, Ira van Eeleen, Co-founder / CEO / Board member, RESPECTfarms / KindEarth.Tech / Cellulaire Agricultur Nederland
14:25 – Audience Q&A, &Discussion with speakers
14:40 – Quick Break
14:45 – Co-creation for future outcomes Workshop
15:30 – Tour of the Cultured Hub (optional)
16:00 – End
Why join us?

Network and share knowledge with cultured food innovators
Understand how the legal framework is evolving
Visit the new Cultured Hub in Kemptthal
Get inspired by innovative startups
Explore how we can team up to accelerate progress

Each Valley Partner can benefit from up to 2 complimentary tickets.

State of Play | Side stream valorisation
2025-03-18 13:30 - 17:30 (Europe/Zurich) | Welle 7, Schanzenstrasse 5, Bern, 3008, Switzerland
Our next State of Play event will explore where Switzerland stands today when it comes to side stream valorisation. Join us to meet the Swiss innovators who are developing innovative circular approaches and discover how companies can use their insights to create more sustainable business models.
What?
Side stream valorisation is all about finding new ways to transform by-products from food processing waste streams into new, high-value products.
Why now?

Policy momentum is growing: In line with the EU Farm to Fork Strategy, Switzerland has set an ambitious goal to halve food waste by 2030. Side stream valorisation has a key role to play in achieving these targets.
Technology is enabling new possibilities: Innovations in bioprocessing, fermentation, and precision drying are making it easier than ever to upcycle side streams into nutritious, functional ingredients.
Sustainability is shaping consumer choices: Consumer interest in sustainable food products is rising, with many brands incorporating upcycled ingredients into snacks, plant-based proteins, and functional foods.
Circular approaches are unlocking new business models: Side stream valorisation can cut CO₂ emissions while reducing costs and creating new revenue streams, making sustainability a win-win strategy.

Meet our speakers

Here’s who will be sharing their insights:

Linda Grieder-Kern, Founder & CEO, Rethink Resource
Nicolas Dorsaz, Technology & Startup Scouting (Europe), Bühler Group
William Beiskjayer and Vincent Vida, Co-founder & COO, Upgrain
Flavio Hagenbuch, Co-founder, Luya
Tiffany Abitbol, Assistant Professor at EPFL in the Institute of Materials (IMX), EFPL
Tatjana Nebel, Project Lead, StreamUp, United Against Waste Schweiz
Aurèle Meyer, CEO, Brauerei Locher AG
Clemens Rüttimann, Mentor & Food Hub Wädenswil
Doris Erne, Founder & CEO, Wheycation
Karin Friedli, Deputy Managing Director, Circunis
Fabian Weinländer, Chief Transformation Officer, Blattmann Schweiz AG

Join us to dive deeper

Explore how technology is transforming food by-products into high-value ingredients
Uncover real-world success stories and new collaboration opportunities
Network with innovators from across the Swiss ecosystem
Taste their products for yourself

Programme schedule

13:30
Welcome & Arrivals

14:00
Welcome remarks, Sidestream valorisation
Christina Senn-Jakobsen, CEO, SFNV

14:10
Setting the Scene on sidestreams
Linda Grieder-Kern, Founder & CEO, RethinkResource

14:20
Exploring the solutions Technology as an enabler
Nicolas Dorsaz, Technology & Startup Scouting, Bühler Group

14:30
How Upgrain Transforms Brewers’ Spent Grain
William Beiskjayer, Co-founder & COO, Upgrain

14:40
Upcycling Beer Sidestreams: From Brewery to Brewbee
Aurèle Meyer, CEO, Brauerei Locher AG

14:50
Eat better, live better: Connecting taste, health and sustainability by upcycling side streams
Flavio Hagenbuch, Co-CEO & Co-founder, Luya Foods

15:00
Waste-to-Taste: Transforming Wet Byproducts of the Food Industry into New Nutritious Foods
Prof. Tiffany Abitbol, EPFL

15:10
QA with all

15:20
Networking Break

15:35
Panel Discussion “StreamUp – Grow your food, save impact”
Tatjana Nebel (moderator) – with Streamup!

16:05
Transforming glucose from potato sidestreams
Fabian Weinländer, Chief Transformation Officer, Blattmann Schweiz AG

16:15
Mini-break

16:20
Deep Dive tables

17:00
Closing
Christina Senn-Jakobsen, CEO, SFNV

17:05
“Taste the Waste” , 1-min Sidestream product pitches and networking

18:00
End of Event

Each Valley partner can benefit from two complimentary tickets. Other companies can join the event by buying a ticket via the link below.
With support from :

SFNV Valley After Hours hosted by House of Lab Science
2025-04-10 17:00 - 20:30 (Europe/Zurich) | House of Lab Science, The Valley, Kemptpark 2,, Kemptthall, 8310, Switzerland
Join this Valley After Hours for the Grand Opening of House of Lab Science in The Valley!
The wait is over! On April 10th from 5:00 PM, House of Lab Science officially opens its doors in The Valley Kemptthal—and you’re invited!
Experience your ideal R&D lab space, connect with incredible companies and discover exciting collaboration opportunities at this vibrant innovation hub.
REGISTER HERE
AGENDA

17:00 – 17:30 – Doors Open

17:30 – 17:40 – Welcome Note – Oana Monica Vrabie, Co-founder House of Lab Science
Introduction to the new location at The Valley Kemptthal. Vision and mission of House of Lab Science. Importance of innovation ecosystems in biotech and food tech.

17:45 – 18:15 – Panel Discussion: How to build the Next Global Biotech/Foodtech Champion
Discussion on Topics: Scaling innovations from lab to global markets. Securing funding and investment for growth. Building strategic partnerships and collaborations

Christina Senn-Jakobsen,CEO @ SFNV
Alexandre Bastos, Head of Ventures @ Givaudan
Pascal Bieri, Co-founder @ Planted

18:15 – 18:30 – Ending Remarks, Christian Hugo Hoffmann, CEO @ HLS

18:30 – 20:30 Lab Tours & Apero Riche

The House of Lab Science is expanding, bringing the innovative Lab as a Service concept to Kemptthal. The state-of-the-art bio lab spaces are designed for Startups seeking flexibility, efficiency, and innovation, not only reduces operational costs but also accelerating time-to-market for groundbreaking technologies.
Be part of this milestone event! Connect with industry leaders, explore the new space, and discover how House of Lab Science can support your growth.
REGISTER HERE

Valley After Hours is curated by SFNV partners for SFNV partners to amplify networking and collaboration opportunities in an informal setting. Expect to meet a mix of SFNV partners, investors, industry experts, and a room full of curious minds from the Swiss food tech ecosystem. Do you want to host the next Valley After Hours? Reach out to events@sfnv.ch

SFNV Valley After Hours hosted by COSAIC (formerly Cultivated Biosciences)
2025-05-13 17:00 - 20:00 (Europe/Zurich) | Horgen Labs Innovation Campus, Bachtobelstrasse 5, Horgen, Zurich, 8810, Switzerland
Join this Valley After Hours at the Horgen Innovation Labs hosted by COSAIC (formerly Cultivated Biosciences) as part of the official Side Event for Hack Summit.
Get ready to dive into the future of food at Cultivated’s brand-new laboratory space. Hosted by the scientific team, this event is your chance to explore the innovative world of Cultivated Biosciences.
🚀 – Interactive Discussion Sessions – Exchange ideas with fellow innovators and Valley Partners
🔬 – Lab Tour(s)– Get an insider’s look at our latest prototyping and experience our emulsion
🥂 – Lively Networking – Connect with industry peers over drinks & bitesBe part of this exciting event where you can discover Cultivated’s innovations connect with with industry leaders, explore the new space, and discover how House of Lab Science can support your growth.
REGISTER HERE to confirm your attendance

Valley After Hours is curated by SFNV partners for SFNV partners to amplify networking and collaboration opportunities in an informal setting. Expect to meet a mix of SFNV partners, investors, industry experts, and a room full of curious minds from the Swiss food tech ecosystem. Do you want to host the next Valley After Hours? Reach out to events@sfnv.ch

Igeho 2025: A leading Swiss platform for hospitality innovation
2025-11-15 09:00 - 2025-11-19 18:00 (Europe/Zurich)
Igeho is Switzerland’s premier international trade show for the hotel, catering, food service, and hospitality industries. Serving as a dynamic live marketing platform, Igeho provides delegates with a comprehensive overview of market trends, valuable networking opportunities to foster new business connections, and insights into the latest innovations shaping the future of hospitality.
Calling all Startups! Become an Igeho Rising Star 🌟
SFNV has teamed up with Igeho, Switzerland”s largest and premier international trade show for the hotel, catering, food service, and hospitality industries to host a Food Innovation Tech area and support the Igeho Rising Star Award.
The Igeho Rising Star competition gives fifteen (15) Startups a free exhibit both to showcase their products and solutions over 5 days at the largest industry platform (tradeshow) in Switzerland. Making contacts with investors, sponsors and some of the biggest players in the Swiss retail market.
Successful Startups will:

Receive a free booth and exhibition space in the Food Innovation Tech area
Pitch to compete in the public vote and be considered for the finals of the Rising Star Award

A public vote will then determine which five startups can go on to pitch their businesses to a jury of industry leaders.
The 5 finalists will present their startups in an exciting elevator pitch. A professional jury of industry leaders will award the winner, who will not only receive a cash prize money but also enjoy heightened media exposure and exclusive additional benefits.
Who can apply?
We’re looking for startups with innovative ideas in foodtech that can help shape the future of the hospitality and food service sectors. Partner with us and our network to showcase your groundbreaking solutions and drive a more future-focused food system!
Why you we’d love you to join us

Connect with colleagues from across the entire Swiss supply chain and a global audience of industry professionals and decision-makers.
Showcase your innovation, gather valuable feedback, and develop partnerships to accelerate your growth.
Gain insight into emerging trends and stay ahead in a competitive market.
Get featured in the Igeho’s media coverage and share your story with our media partners

SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION & IMPORTANT DEADLINES

About Igeho
Igeho is considered the most important international industry platform for hotels, catering, take-away and care in Switzerland. As a live marketing platform, Igeho offers the hospitality industry a comprehensive overview of the market, interesting networking opportunities and new inspiration on all aspects of hospitality. The first edition of Igeho took place in November 1965 in Basel – at that time still under the name “Internationale Fachmesse für Gemeinschaftsverpflegung”. Since its inception, the trade fair has been held biennially in Basel, with the exception of 2021 due to the Covid pandemic. Communal catering continues to play an important role, but the hotel, restaurant and take-away sectors were also added over the years. Today, Igeho is the largest meeting place for the hospitality industry in Switzerland.

Igeho Rising Star Awards 2025
2025-11-18 16:00 - 17:00 (Europe/Zurich) | Messe Basel, Messeplatz 10, Basel, 4058, Switzerland
Finale: Igeho Rising Star Award 2025
At the grand finale of the Igeho Rising Star Award 2025, the five finalists will showcase their groundbreaking innovations to the audience before facing questions from the expert jury.
Launched in 2023, the Igeho Rising Star Award celebrates and supports founders and start-ups in the hospitality sector. Now in its second edition, five pioneering start-ups – Catchfree, Circunis, Foodflows, GoNina, and Yumame Foods — have reached the final round. One of them will be crowned the winner and receive the prestigious award along with prize money.
The jury includes industry leaders and experts such as Pascal Bieri (Planted Co-Founder), Prof. Dr. Claus-Heinrich Daub (FHNW), Marina Helm Romaneschi (Swiss Food Research), Christine Schäfer (Gottlieb Duttweiler Institute), Rebecca Clopath (Alpine Chef), and Christian Gerber (ZFV Group).
We look forward to seeing you there!
More information can be found on the Igeho website in German and French.

Navigating in the Food and Feed Regulatory Jungle
2025-11-24 14:00 - 15:30 (Europe/Helsinki)
This webinar organized by the Finnish Food ecosystem program Valio Food 2.0 in collaboration with Medfiles, BioSafe and Sweco Finland is your chance to learn how to effectively navigate in the EU food and feed regulatory landscape.
Numerous food and feed regulations impact food business operators in the area. When developing new sustainable food and feed ingredients, companies—from startups to international food and feed enterprises—must understand the regulatory landscape and its requirements. In this webinar, experienced experts from consulting firms will share their insights on various topics. Additionally, we will hear a practical case example of a novel food application process from the applicant.

Meet Innosuisse
2026-03-24 13:00 - 14:00 (Europe/Zurich) | https://swissfoodnutritionvalley.com/event-listing/meet-innosuisse/
You are an entrepreneur, part of an SME or a research organisation and would like to better navigate the landscape of the Swiss Innovation Agency Innosuisse? Join our introduction webinar on Innosuisse and the opportunities they provide in this compact, 1-hour webinar.
Who’s leading it? The sessions are co-hosted by Innosuisse and SFNV
Who should join? Valley Partners, either from startups, SME’s or research organisations curious about Innosuisse
Kind regards,
The Swiss Food & Nutrition Valley Team
