Highline Beta and global beer company Anheuser-Busch InBev (AB InBev) have opened applications for the second cohort of 100+ Sustainability Accelerator, a program that provides funding and guidance to startups that aim to solve environmental and social challenges.
“We hope to find one or two [startups] that represent Canada and our growing tech startup community.”
The accelerator program will take place at AB InBev’s headquarters in New York, followed by six months of remote programming designed to ramp up the collaboration and growth of cohort companies. Highline Beta will source and vet companies, as well as advise and mentor participants in this year’s 100+ Sustainability Accelerator.
“It is amazing to see the progress that startups can make in just one year whether it’s improving lives for thousands of farmers, reducing our carbon footprint, saving gallons of water or increasing recycled content in our packaging,” said Maisie Devine, global director of the 100+ Sustainability Accelerator.
“We are inspired and in awe of our founders every day and the impact that they can make through their dedication to solving our world’s most pressing challenges,” she added. “After the success of last year’s program, we are excited to open applications for our next cohort and very eager to see what innovative solutions the next class will bring.”
Through the program, participants will gain access to a mentor network, including NGOs, venture capitalists, and successful entrepreneurs, alongside AB InBev’s own experts and executives. In addition, each startup will also receive up to $100,000 for pilot execution upon selection, as well as the opportunity for follow-on investment from AB InBev and partners at a demo day next year.
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“We are excited about AB InBev’s commitment to sustainability, and we are thrilled to support a second cohort of great startups,” said Highline Beta founding partner Ben Yoskovitz. “With AB InBev, Highline Beta is going to find the best startups out there, globally, to solve immense challenges for AB InBev and the world. And we hope to find one or two that represent Canada and our growing tech startup community.”
Alumnae from the first cohort of the 100+ Sustainability Accelerator include
Shanghai Yushuo Energy, which deals in electrochemical energy storage, EcoWorld Technologies, which works on the green replacement of caustic soda for CIP cleaning purposes, and SmartHop, an autonomous agent for truckers to plan, search, and book loads. The program was first launched last year, with 10 challenges startups could apply to address.
Applications for the program will be accepted until October 30, with successful applicants announced at the end of the year.
Image courtesy Unsplash