Anheuser-Busch InBev (AB InBev) has launched the 100+ Accelerator program with the aim of mobilising the world’s brightest minds to solve some of the most pressing global sustainability issues. To this end, it has invited academics, entrepreneurs, scientists and technologists to apply.
AB InBev is looking for partners who can deliver breakthrough advancements in a range of areas including water stewardship, farmer productivity, product upcycling, responsible sourcing and green logistics. Startups can apply with their solutions to 10 key challenges that have been developed, with input from internal stakeholders and third-party experts around the world. Successful applicants will receive mentorship, funding and access to new networks.
Commenting on the launch, Ben Verhaert, President – India, AB InBev said, “We are delighted to announce the launch of 100+ Accelerator to solve some of the most pressing global sustainability issues. We have a long-term vision to build a company to last for the next 100+ years, which relies on driving sustainability across our business. Through the 100+ Accelerator, we will support entrepreneurs who are tackling local challenges in the region with our resources, experience and global reach to speed their progress and scale.”
Selected winners will be announced in September 2018 and invited to be part of the 100+ Accelerator, which will kick-off in New York in October and run through March 2019. The program will culminate in a Global Demo Day in Leuven, Belgium where startups have the opportunity to pitch for further funding from 100+ as well as from external investors.
Diane Wauters, Procurement Director - Sustainability and Agricultural Development, APAC South, AB InBev 100+ Accelerator, said, “Today’s global sustainability challenges provide us with some of the greatest opportunities for development and innovation. We want to empower driven and committed entrepreneurs here in India who are solving problems in their own communities. In collaboration with the best minds across sectors, the 100+ Accelerator will identify game-changing solutions to deliver faster, better results.”
The 100+ Accelerator will begin with a pilot sprint for each chosen startup to validate product-market fit, followed by a structured curriculum focused on integrating with a large corporate partner and best practices for scaling. The Accelerator will draw on insights and experience from ZX Ventures, AB InBev’s global incubator. This is the beginning of a longstanding program that will run annually.
AB InBev is a Belgium-based brewing company. The launch of the 100+ Accelerator builds on AB InBev’s recently announced 2025 Sustainability Goals.
To know more details about the program, click here.