FOOD FOUNDERS Studio
Overview
FOOD FOUNDERS Studio is a venture studio dedicated to transforming food innovation through the commercialization of technology developed in European universities. Established around 2023, this Zurich-based initiative focuses on building B2B food tech ventures, turning groundbreaking academic research into scalable market solutions. The studio was founded by Giacomo Cattaneo and Alexandre Morel, who bring their expertise from the food and tech startup sectors. As of recent developments, the studio has raised CHF 1.2 million in seed funding and launched its initial venture focused on improving taste issues in plant-based foods.
Recent Developments
- September 2025: FOOD FOUNDERS Studio is planning to extend its operations further by continually building a pipeline of ventures sourced from universities across Europe. The studio has been actively seeking new food technologies, industry partners, and leaders to join its platform, as part of its strategic growth initiatives.
- June 2025: The studio announced that it successfully raised an additional CHF 1.5 million from private investors. This funding aims to support future ventures and ensure that each receives tailored resources and focus.
- April 2025: Giacomo Cattaneo and Alexandre Morel revealed their unique hands-on approach that involves garnering direct collaboration with academic researchers. The partnership ensures innovations are not only market-ready but also meet prevailing market demands.
- January 2025: FOOD FOUNDERS Studio announced the formation of its Advisory Board and the imminent appointment of its first CEO to lead the initial venture into the market.
- August 2024: Following its successful funding efforts, the studio launched its first venture, which focuses on solving off-flavors in legumes used in plant-based foods, using proprietary technology.
Company Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | c. 2023 |
| Headquarters | Zurich, Switzerland |
| Founders | Giacomo Cattaneo, Alexandre Morel |
| Revenue | Not publicly disclosed |
| Profits | Not publicly disclosed |
| Key Investors | Swiss family office, undisclosed private investors |
| Industry | Food Technology, Venture Studio |
| Number of Employees | Specific number not disclosed |
Early History
FOOD FOUNDERS Studio was conceptualized by Giacomo Cattaneo and Alexandre Morel, who identified a gap in Europe’s food tech landscape. Their concern was the disconnect between groundbreaking research in food technology and its commercial viability. Inspired by their backgrounds in food and tech startups, Cattaneo, who co-founded EverGrain at AB InBev, and Morel, involved in a cultivated meat startup, Mirai, sought to build a bridge between academic research and industrial application. The studio formally came to operation around 2023, dedicated to transforming the food system by commercializing academic innovations through a collaborative and systematic approach.
Company Profile and Achievements
FOOD FOUNDERS Studio's business model focuses on systematically de-risking the commercialization of innovative food technologies. By closely collaborating with researchers and early-stage founders, the studio ensures each project meets the real-world demands of the food industry. This involves comprehensive market validation before developing technology into a viable product.
- 2024: The studio secured CHF 1.2 million, which supported the launch of its first venture tackling off-flavors in plant-based foods—a key barrier to market adoption.
- 2025: An additional funding round in 2025 saw the studio receive CHF 1.5 million aimed at nurturing future B2B food tech startups.
- Strategic Collaborations: The venture studio’s relationships with European universities are central to funneling groundbreaking research into practical, scalable solutions.
- Industry Impact: The studio champions a model that provides flexibility for academics, allowing them to consult, join the new venture as CTOs, or remain in academia, which has bolstered its network of talent.
Current Operations and Market Position
Currently, FOOD FOUNDERS Studio is at the forefront of the food tech industry, utilizing a unique model that bridges the gap between academia and the commercial market. The studio's efforts focus primarily on plant-based innovations, a growing sector within food technology. By leading the transformation of university research into market-ready products, it positions itself as a pioneer in systematic food tech innovation. FOOD FOUNDERS Studio's competitive advantage lies in its deep involvement in the development process from lab to market, ensuring that each venture solves genuine issues observed in current food technologies.
Conclusion
FOOD FOUNDERS Studio is setting a new standard in the commercialization of food technology through its venture studio model. By providing the necessary resources and expertise, the studio is successfully bridging the gap between academic research and market reality, particularly within the plant-based food sector. As the food industry continues to evolve, FOOD FOUNDERS Studio is poised to play a significant role in developing solutions that are not only innovative but also scalable and market-ready. Its strategy of involving academics in the commercialization process ensures that new ventures are grounded in cutting-edge science, positioning the studio for further growth and impact in reshaping the future of food technology.