Alpina Group and Rockstart Program Seek Agrifood Startups
Grupo Alpina, in partnership with Rockstart, has announced a new call for applications for their AgriFoodTech investment fund, aimed at supporting innovative startups in the agrifood sector across Latin America. This initiative provides a unique opportunity for emerging companies to accelerate their growth through dedicated resources and specialized mentorship. The application period closes on August 15.
Who Can Apply?
The call is open to early-stage startups operating across the entire food value chain. There are no specific restrictions as long as the company focuses on agro and food technologies using innovative approaches. This inclusive approach aims to attract a diverse range of ventures that can contribute to the sector’s development.
Objectives of the Partnership
The strategic alliance between Grupo Alpina and Rockstart aims to invest in at least 18 companies over the coming years. Each of these companies will receive not only investment but also a six-month acceleration and support program.
Ernesto Fajardo, President of Grupo Alpina, commented: “We are proud to launch this project in search of startups with innovative ideas that can positively impact the agro sector in the region. With the support and knowledge exchange provided by the AgriFoodTech program, we are committed to accelerating the transformation of the food industry with sustainable, technology-backed solutions.”
Felipe Santamaria, CEO and Founder of Rockstart Latin America, added: “Over the past eight years, we have been investing in tech startups across Latin America, but from the beginning, our dream was to create different investment verticals with corporates focused on real societal issues. AgriFoodTech is a vertical we’ve developed in Europe, and we’re excited to bring it to Latin America, especially in partnership with a major player like Grupo Alpina. Together, we’re building a reality where entrepreneurs throughout the food chain will receive support, investment, and acceleration.”
Program Benefits
The six-month intensive program offers several key benefits for selected startups:
- Growth: Strategies to identify and activate growth metrics.
- Capital Raising: Assistance with fundraising and financial planning.
- Founder's Mindset: Personal development and leadership for entrepreneurs.
- Networking: Connections with investors, mentors, corporations, and Rockstart’s alumni network.
In addition, startups will receive bi-weekly strategy check-ins, experiment labs with the Rockstart team to test new strategies, one-on-one sessions, financial and fundraising labs, and in-person events in Bogotá. They will also have access to spaces and advice from Grupo Alpina experts based on their specific needs.
Application and Selection Process
Interested parties can apply via the provided link until August 15. The selection process, which will include evaluations and interviews, will take place from August 16 to September 27, 2024. Selected startups will sign agreements in early October and commence the program that same month.