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Nine start-ups chosen to participate in CoLab Tech 2026 program

Akarso Bio creates a fermentation-derived prebiotic nanofiber platform that performs like a hydrocolloid, declares like a fiber, and naturally stimulates GLP-1; helping brands create foods that help satisfy hunger and support gut health and metabolic wellness.

Alpine Bio is an ingredient innovation company producing next-generation soy protein ingredients with whey-like functionality, superior solubility, emulsification, neutral flavor and nutrition, with reduced carbon emissions relative to dairy proteins.

Attribute Analytics is an intelligence platform that connects sensory, consumer, and sales data to deliver actionable food and beverage product insights, helping CPG teams make faster, smarter decisions that improve product quality, accelerate innovation, and increase market success.

Cal-San developed a proprietary microwave-assisted dehydration technology, producing premium snacks and ingredients with superior flavor, texture, nutritional retention, and extended shelf life.

De3pbio is advancing the next generation of precision nutrition using its proprietary AI-speed biomanufacturing to research and develop functional ingredients that have potential to optimize human biology.

Nfinite Paper: creates curbside recyclable, sealable, printable ultra-high barrier paper designed to replace flexible metallized plastic packaging, with a reduced carbon footprint.

Nourish Ingredients is pioneering animal-free specialty fats through precision fermentation and enzyme processes to deliver animalic taste and texture, as well as ingredient appeal, across categories, enabling more sustainable, delicious products.

Nous: is shaping the next iteration of functional ingredients using a proprietary extraction technology, enabling the development of better-for-you ingredients with unique functionality, taste neutrality, and complete solubility.

Ruby Bio uses renewable and up-cycled feedstocks to produce ingredients that help boost the performance and shelf life of baked goods, beverages, and confectionery products through precision fermentation. 

The cohort will participate in an 8-week curriculum that includes hands-on experiences, virtual sessions, 1:1 mentorship and access to Mondelēz International’s global network of partners and experts.

Class of 2024

Explore the four topics below and apply to the one that best fits your technology

We are seeking technologies that are focused on

Climate Resilience

From Ritz Crackers to Milka Chocolate, our portfolio of beloved snacks must rely on, and contribute to, a healthier planet. We are seeking technologies that can protect and supplement our supply chains – primarily in cocoa and wheat – through high efficiency fermentation technologies; regenerative and emission reducing agricultural practices.

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Breakthrough performance technologies

Ever think about what it takes to produce 40 billion Oreo cookies every year? We do. That’s why we need technologies to enhance energy efficiency, develop sustainable and high-performance materials, streamline operational and cleaning processes, and accelerate Research & Development with cutting-edge analytical and imaging solutions and preservation techniques.

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Next generation ingredients

As consumers seek more from each snacking occasion – from flavor to function – we need technologies that can take our portfolio into the future. From more fiber to protein and fat substitutes, re-imagining sweetness and shortening labels, we are looking for innovators that have a forward vision and scalable solutions for future-forward snacks.

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Delightful Product & Pack

Whether it’s the crunch of crispy Tate’s, triangular treat of Toblerone, creaminess of Cadbury or sinking your teeth into Sourpatch Kids, our desire to delight consumers’ senses is unmatched. We are looking for technologies that take taste and textures to new sensory levels; advanced solutions to extended product shelf life and high-barrier, non-plastic packaging.

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THE PROGRAM

Applicants must have a minimum viable product and at least 5 employees to participate in the program and benefit from:

  • Intensive 4-week virtual curriculum, integrated into a flexible 3-month engagement period (mid-May to September).
  • Exclusive curriculum details provided to selected cohorts.
  • Virtual curriculum delivery with global accessibility (participation centered on EST time).
  • Direct access to MDLZ R&D leadership, internal specialists, the MDLZ Ventures team, and a curated network of leading VC firms and strategic partners.
  • Dedicated 1:1 mentorship from industry leaders.
  • Pathways for tangible proof-of-concept development and validation.
  • Travel stipend for the culminating in-person event in the UK.

I wanted to take a minute to express how transformative the CoLab participation has been for us – we have learned so much and have done a lot of business development together with the different Mondelez teams and even with your suppliers. It’s been fantastic, and I feel there is a lot to be excited about for the coming year!” – Nils Lekeberg – Vice president, Enjay

Enjay SystemsNils Lekeberg