PepsiCo has launched the third edition of its Greenhouse Accelerator (GHAC) program in the Asia Pacific (APAC) region.
The GHAC program offers sustainability-focused startups the chance to secure equity-free grants and mentorship opportunities. The program, which supports innovative solutions in the circular economy, climate action, and sustainable agriculture, will grant $20,000 USD to each of the 10 finalists.
At the program’s conclusion, finalists will pitch their ideas to PepsiCo executives, venture capitalists, and investors, competing for an additional $100,000 USD.
“PepsiCo’s Greenhouse Accelerator Program is dedicated to empowering startups with the tools, resources and mentorship required to drive meaningful change and scale innovations across our food systems,” said Ashley Brown, Vice President Supply Chain A/NZ and Chief Sustainability Officer, PepsiCo APAC.
The program has already seen significant success, initiating 15 pilots across seven markets, including Australia and New Zealand, through its previous two cohorts. Notable A/NZ finalists have included Australia’s ELIoT Energy, Wildfire, and X-Centric, alongside New Zealand’s Captivate Technologies and Aspiring Materials.
One standout from the 2024 program, New Zealand-based Captivate Technologies, developed a patented adsorbent that reduces costs for carbon dioxide capture, while Australia’s X-Centric focused on creating advanced soil-testing instruments to improve agricultural practices.
The accelerator aligns with Australia’s growing focus on environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) standards, where small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are increasingly required to address ‘scope 3’ emissions within supply chains.
Participants in the GHAC program benefit from tailored mentorship from PepsiCo executives, access to industry networks, and collaboration opportunities. This year, the program also includes guidance from partners such as GC Ventures and Circulate Capital.
“As sustainability rightly grows in importance for investors, consumers, and employees, accelerator programs like GHAC play a crucial role in helping entrepreneurs meet these expectations and remain competitive,” Brown added.
Startups interested in applying can visit the website or PepsiCo’s LinkedIn page.
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