Mondelēz International has launched a partnership with The Hatchery Chicago, a non-profit food business incubator, as it ‘ramps up its innovation efforts to lead the future of snacking’.
The company says the partnership is one of several investments the company is making as part of SnackFutures, Mondelēz’s innovation and venture hub aimed at unlocking snacking growth opportunities around the world.
Future of snacking
“We are truly impressed with the talented start-ups coming out of The Hatchery and are excited to be part of this journey. As the world's snacking leader, it is increasingly important for us to collaborate with the best and brightest talent in advancing the future of snacking,” said Tim Cofer, executive vice president and chief growth officer of Mondelēz International.
“With SnackFutures, we want to disrupt the food industry by testing new ideas and scaling what works. Working with The Hatchery food entrepreneurs will help us push the boundaries of what is possible in snacking as we continue to build our ecosystem of partners while also giving back and offering guidance to new companies.”
The initiative will allow Mondelēz and the SnackFutures team to connect with the local food and beverage start-up community and work together to accelerate and scale innovation. Mondelēz will also work with The Hatchery Chicago to offer educational opportunities and mentorship to entrepreneurs active in Chicago’s thriving food and drink scene.
As one of the largest food incubation spaces in the US, The Hatchery helps local entrepreneurs build and grow successful food and beverage businesses through three major areas of need: access to production space, financing and resources. Housed in 67,000-square-foot facility in the East Garfield Park neighborhood in Chicago, it provides job training and placement programs, creating sustainable economic growth and job opportunities.