Dubai: The United States Soybean Export Council (USSEC) has held its second Pitch2Fork program in Dubai, UAE. With a focus on innovation in the protein sector, this platform creates a great opportunity for entrepreneurs in Bangladesh, India and Pakistan to present their growing businesses to a group of investors.
The shortlisted companies taking advantage of this unique opportunity include Gladful, Hello Tempay, Poulta and WeGro.
Although South Asia is listed as the fastest growing region in the world, it is struggling to meet the rapidly growing demand for protein. Reflecting on the potential impact of Pitch2Fork, Kevin Roepke, Regional Director for South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa (SAASSA), USSEC said: “Pitch2Fork is strategically positioned to facilitate the necessary connections between startups and investors, and accelerate innovation. By embracing challenges, investing proactive in the future, and address the protein challenge, we will pave the way for a more nutritious tomorrow.”
Salam Tempay has been awarded the Protein Startup of the Year Award by the Pitch2Fork 2024 trophy for its innovative production of tempeh, Salam Tempay expands the range of soy-based proteins available to consumers in India. India-based nutritionist and founder of Salam Tempai Malawika Siddharth said, “As a nutritionist, I regularly witness the impact of protein deficiency on the health of individuals. That is why we established Salam Tempay to bridge this gap. Platforms like Pitch2fork offer invaluable opportunities to improve awareness and reinforce our mission to provide nutritious and delicious high-quality protein options.”
Speaking about his experience as a candidate at Pitch2Fork at Poulta, Global Sales & Marketing GM Khushbaht Ashraf said, “Featuring Poulta’s innovative solutions for tracking, vertical integration and data-driven decision making. A great audience is a valuable experience. We are committed to tracking beyond farm while maximizing protein production
This resonates perfectly with USSEC and its mission. It is a pleasure to network and discuss future collaborations and partnerships to increase protein awareness. “
Mahmudur Rahman, founder of WeGro, another candidate from Bangladesh’s Agri-Tech sector, added: “At WeGro, we empower farmers through finance, income and market access. We consider Pitch2Fork to be a great platform to identify innovative solutions that address the protein gap for the future which is more sustainable.”
Participants were inspired by the success of Agroshift, an agritech startup from Bangladesh and winner of Pitch2Fork 2022. accessibility, quality and convenience for customers through a micro-fulfillment distribution system.
The Pitch2Fork speaker lineup includes USSEC Vice Chair Janna Fritz; Henry Gordon-Smith, Founder and CEO of Agriculture; Roma Roy Choudhury, Founder and COO, Food Evolution; Deeba Giannoulis, Regional Head of US Soybean Sustainability and Marketing at USSEC-SAASSA; and Roberto Wheaton, founder and managing director of Valoral Advisors.
USA Soy is at the forefront of innovation and sustainability – constantly improving to deliver solutions to its customers around the world. With a commitment to feed the world sustainably, US soybean farmers support platforms such as Pitch2Fork and the Soybean Oil Value Calculator, the US Soybean Database, the Pond Racing System (IPRS), the International Aquaculture Feed Formula Database (IAFDD) and offer solutions. To name a few centers of excellence.
