Bio Innovation Challenge

Proteins are key to nutrition, both for humans and animals. In Europe, there is a significant protein gap in animal feed; at the same time, we need new sources and improved processes regarding protein diversification in food. Innovative solutions along the entire value chain, from the grain to the finished product, can support Europe in the much-needed transition.

That’s why the Agro Innovation Lab is launching Proteinnovation Discovery. We are seeking innovative solutions in new proteins. Together with our partners, we aim to create sustainable value, reduce dependencies, and rethink the production of agricultural raw materials and food.

Do you have a solution for novel protein sources, production processes, or a promising end product? Apply now!

For the best startups there are opportunities for investments, PoC funding, follow-up projects, sales partnerships, or exclusive participation in our Proteinnovation Summit with the “who’s who” of the protein ecosystem.

Scope

Feed

Today, 66% of high-protein crops used by the European feed industry are still imported – and for soy bean meal it is even 96%. Production of essential amino acids in Europe is also low. These are just examples that underscore the need for innovation in this highly price-sensitive market. Innovation offers opportunities to differentiate and strengthen domestic supply on a sustainable basis.

Food

Consumption habits are changing. Demand for new protein sources is increasing. This is not only about entirely new sources or end products, but also about optimizing protein quality via innovations in breeding, cultivation, and processing.

Categories

PLANT-BASED

Innovation in crop production | Smart processing technologies | New plant-based proteins based on local raw materials

FERMENTATION

Single-cell & precision fermentation using agricultural raw materials as substrate | Use cases for the food & feed sectors

SIDESTREAMS

Valorization of agricultural and food side streams | Optimized logistics & processes for wet side streams

ALTERNATIVE PROTEIN SOURCES

Insects | Fungi | Algae | Cell-based cultivation

OUT OF THE BOX

SPECIFIC CHALLENGES

Download an overview of our search fields here.

Target groups

  • Start-ups
  • Spin-offs
  • Innovative SMEs
  • Corporates

Requirements

  • Use case/application scenarios for European agri-food chain
  • Proof of concept
  • Test results available in the best case scenario
  • Prototype available
  • No geographical restrictions on origin

Your next steps

Click here for the terms and conditions of participation

Proteinnovation Summit

If your solution convinces us, you’ll be invited to Austria to RWA’s headquarters (Korneuburg). Pitch your innovation in front of industry, research, and investors. There—and at the subsequent networking event—you can benefit from numerous advantages.

Benefits for the finalists

  • Participation in a high-level summit with a strong international network of investors, industry, business, research, and farmers
  • Potential market access to AT & CEE countries
  • Networking with European cooperative associations & partners within the created ecosystem (industry, research, associations, …)
  • Contacts with potential investors
  • Visibility & marketing
  • Possible coverage of travel expenses when participating in the final summit
  • Additionally for the top participants:
    • PoC funding & coaching
    • Partnership talks, sales discussions with the RWA Lagerhaus network
    • Further tests, pilot projects, and research projects with Raiffeisen Ware Austria, the Agro Innovation Lab, and research institutions
    • Investment talks

Our partners