Established in 2019, the Nestlé R+D Accelerator is an open-innovation programme aimed at empowering entrepreneurs to bring food and beverage innovations to life.
With a network of 14 Accelerators embedded in its global R&D centres, the latest scientific discoveries, advances in technology, and data on consumer needs and preferences are brought together to “enable the development of next-level solutions across the full range of Nestlé’s business categories and beyond”.
Recently, the Nestlé R+D Accelerator conducted an Innovation Challenge specifically on women’s health for the first time.
“We have seen increased awareness globally about the importance of women’s health, yet many health needs remain unaddressed. Addressing those needs is part of Nestlé’s ambition to support healthy longevity.
“That is why we are seeking to identify and bring to market innovative nutrition-based solutions that help women maintain physical and mental fitness throughout their adult lives. This includes addressing needs related to fertility, menstruation, and hormonal changes experienced during perimenopause, menopause and post-menopause,” a Nestlé spokesperson told NutraIngredients-Asia.
In addition, the focus will be on conditions associated with these life stages, such as iron deficiency, joint pain and cardiovascular diseases, as well as overall well-being benefits like mood and sleep.
According to the company, any start-up around the world that is working to improve women’s health through nutrition-based solutions is welcome to apply.
“We invite internal and external innovators who are passionate about food to come together and work on disruptive ideas.
“There is no fixed number of start-ups we’re willing to work with. [It] all depends on the quality and strategic fit of the challenge applications we receive. We are looking for scientific differentiation, and solutions that fit our product portfolio.”
Applications for the Innovation Challenge were accepted until the end of January 2025, and Nestlé is currently evaluating the submissions.
“In February, we will invite a selection of start-ups to pitch their ideas to us. In early April, we will make a final selection of the companies with which we would like to collaborate.”
Based on past campaigns, the Innovation Challenge winners will receive access to Nestlé’s state-of-the-art infrastructure and science and technology expertise.
They will also have the opportunity to collaborate with one of Nestlé’s global R+D Accelerators to develop and strengthen their proposal.