FOOD PROGRAMS
Entrepreneurship
FOOD PIONEERS PROGRAM
A six month program for food entrepreneurs
Are you an emerging food entrepreneur with a nearly market-ready product, looking for a community that helps you grow both personally and professionally? Then the Food Pioneers Program is the right place to take your business to the next level. This initiative is part of our broader Food Programs.
Interested in joining the 2026 program? Apply here.
Grow your food business with expert support
Food Pioneers supports food entrepreneurship. We provide a six month program that combines coaching, workshops and community building. Our mission is to accelerate sustainable food innovation and strengthen the food ecosystem.
Why this matters
The global food transition requires more than new products. It calls for new ways of doing business and collaborating. Through practical programs and strong networks, we help entrepreneurs make real impact and strengthen their position in the market.
From idea to pitch
During the six month Food Pioneers Program, participants benefit from:
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Workshops on Business Modelling, Finance and Free Publicity
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Coaching from experienced professionals, such as Thera van Heuveln
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Specialized training sessions, for example In the Mind of the Buyer
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Access to the networks of Food Pioneers, SOL, Impact Hub, Kitchen Republic, Broccoli, Food Hub and our partners
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A final pitch to a jury of sector leaders in front of a large audience. Designed to unlock partnerships, pilots and wider visibility.
The program also includes tastings, feedback sessions, networking events and tailored coaching. Each participant contributes through a creative quid pro quo, such as providing a lunch or sharing expertise.
Our ambition
With the Food Pioneers Program we build an infrastructure for sustainable food entrepreneurship. Participants grow in business development, product innovation and networking, while contributing to the food transition across the chain. After completing the program you join the Food Pioneers community for good.
PROGRAM 2025
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April: individual coaching session
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24 April 2025: Program day 1
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22 May 2025: Program day 2
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19 June 2025: Program day 3
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July or August: 1 hour coaching session
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28 August 2025: Program day 4
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18 September 2025: Program day 5
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16 October 2025: Program day 6 and final pitch event
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November: individual coaching session
Fee and value
A one-time participation fee of €250 plus a creative contribution agreed with the team. In return you get a program worth €7,500+ in workshops, coaching, network and exposure.
Eligibility
Entrepreneurs can apply if they:
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Run a food start-up with first revenue or a concrete line of sight to first revenue
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Have a nearly market-ready product and the capacity to deliver
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Commit to full attendance at all program days
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Are motivated to grow in an English-speaking entrepreneurial community
Who can apply
Get involved
Interested in joining the next Food Pioneers Program or have questions? Contact us and discover how you can be part of the next generation of food entrepreneurs shaping the future of sustainable food. Want to attend this year’s Pitch Event? Check our agenda for details and apply for an invitation.
Meet the participants of #7!
So far, over 78 exciting entrepreneurs have found their way to the program. Meet the participants of edition #7 below!