SPRINGDALE, ARK. — Tyson Ventures, the venture capital division of Tyson Foods Inc., is accepting applications its the second annual Tyson Demo Day.
The event is scheduled for July 11 at the Tyson Foods World Headquarters in Springdale. The inaugural event was held virtually.
This year’s theme is a focus on upcycling as Tyson strives to achieve its sustainability goals.
“We’re embracing the circular economy and putting waste to work,” said John R. Tyson, Tyson Ventures president and Tyson Foods executive vice president and chief financial officer. “At Tyson Foods, this means reimagining and reusing materials and working to reduce our environmental footprint.”
Startups may apply online for consideration until May 1. Selected participants will be invited to pitch in person at Demo Day, demonstrating how their upcycling solutions contribute to a more sustainable food system.
“Upcycling is a critical factor in our formula to sustainably feed the future. From streamlining costs to reducing materials to landfills, upcycling makes both economic and environmental sense for our business, the industry, and the world economy,” Mr. Tyson said. “The creativity and passion the Demo Day applicants demonstrate in tackling a complex challenge in the food industry is incredibly inspiring.”
After Tyson Demo Day, up to six selected startups will have the opportunity to connect with Tyson Foods’ senior leadership and potentially partner with the company to test products in the market.
In 2022, more than 120 startups from more than 20 countries applied, and 20 finalists pitched at Demo Day. Six startups worked with Tyson Foods leaders on potential partnership opportunities, including mentorship from company executives and promotion on Tyson Ventures’ social media channels.
“It was an honor to pitch to Tyson Foods leadership,” said Aayush Thakur, co-founder and chief executive officer of FR8relay, a resident startup from Demo Day 2022. “The opportunity to learn more about the company’s strategy and execution, while receiving feedback from Tyson’s leadership was invaluable in developing potential solutions. We appreciated the opportunity to connect and network.”