The FoodTech 500 is back for 2025, and it's more impactful than ever! This year marks the seventh edition of what has become the definitive ranking system for AgriFoodTech innovation worldwide. With unprecedented global reach and enhanced value propositions, there are more compelling reasons than ever to get involved. Whether you're a startup, scaleup, corporate, innovation hub, or government organization, the 2025 FoodTech 500 offers expanded opportunities to connect, grow, and lead in the food technology revolution.

Unprecedented Scale and Global Impact

Over six successful editions, the FoodTech 500 has evolved from an ambitious ranking initiative into a global campaign that has fundamentally transformed how we identify and celebrate AgriFoodTech innovation.

We've received over 10,500+ applications from AgriFoodTech startups and scale-ups spanning every corner of the globe over the last six years. The numbers represent the breadth and diversity of innovation happening across the entire food value chain and its evolution throughout the years.

Our global footprint now extends to 180+ countries, demonstrating that food innovation truly knows no boundaries. The program has generated 2.5M+ social media impressions and an incredible readership through partnerships with 45+ media organisations worldwide.

Over the years, we've brought together 5,000+ participants from the international AgriFoodTech community to our events, including our annual unveiling of the year's top 500, creating a dynamic ecosystem where meaningful connections and business opportunities flourish.

Elite Recognition Meets Practical Value

The 2025 FoodTech 500 delivers an enhanced suite of benefits designed to provide both recognition and tangible business value:

Premium Industry Standing

Earning a place in the FoodTech 500 means joining an exclusive community of AgriFoodTech leaders who are setting the pace for industry transformation.

Access to an Unparalleled Network

Connect with our carefully curated ecosystem of 20,000+ industry professionals spanning the entire AgriFoodTech value chain. This includes influential investors actively seeking the next breakthrough, F&B corporate leaders driving open innovation initiatives, and fellow entrepreneurs who are solving complementary challenges in the food system.

Comprehensive Global Exposure

Selected companies receive prominent placement on the official FoodTech 500 platform and inclusion in our industry-leading White Paper. This exposure extends through our extensive media network, delivering coverage through official press announcements, in-depth editorial features, and targeted social media campaigns that reach decision-makers across the globe.

Strategic Business Development

Access exclusive collaboration pathways with our network of partner organizations specifically designed to accelerate your growth trajectory. We facilitate high-value connections with trade investment agencies, corporate partners, and strategic collaborators who can help you scale into new markets and unlock new opportunities.

Community-Driven Innovation Discovery

Innovation can emerge from anywhere, and we're committed to ensuring no breakthrough goes unnoticed. Our public nomination system empowers industry professionals, food innovation enthusiasts, and ecosystem stakeholders to highlight exceptional startups and scale-ups that deserve recognition.

This community-driven approach has already helped us discover some of the most exciting companies in previous editions. Whether you're an industry veteran with deep market insights or a passionate advocate for food system transformation, your nominations help us paint a complete picture of global AgriFoodTech innovation. Submit your nominations here.

Expanding Our Ambassador Network

The FoodTech 500 Ambassador Program continues to grow, creating a global network of passionate ecosystem champions who are driving regional innovation and fostering stronger connections within the international AgriFoodTech community.

Our 42 Ambassadors serve as more than representatives—they're active connectors who identify breakthrough innovations in their regions, advocate for promising startups, and facilitate the strategic partnerships that fuel industry growth. For experienced ecosystem experts, investors, and industry enablers, this represents a unique opportunity to shape the future direction of food technology on a global scale.

If you're passionate about advancing AgriFoodTech innovation and have the expertise and network to make a meaningful impact, explore Ambassador opportunities here.

Partnership Opportunities That Drive Real Results

Last March, we announced our partnership with pladis, the global snacking leader behind iconic brands like McVitie's, GODIVA, and Ülker, which joined us as the Official Sponsor of the 2025 FoodTech 500. This partnership perfectly aligns with pladis' commitment to food innovation through their Accelerator Programme, which attracted nearly 300 applicants, all responding to pladis' call for solutions addressing obesity, food waste, sustainable sourcing, and the growing demand for personalised nutrition.

The FoodTech 500 offers strategic partnership opportunities for organizations looking to leverage our platform and build substantive relationships within our ecosystem. Whether you represent a media organization, corporate innovation team, government agency, accelerator, or open innovation platform, partnering with the FoodTech 500 can significantly enhance your strategic positioning.

Partnership benefits include:

• Enhanced Market Positioning: Align your organization with the most innovative companies in AgriFoodTech and demonstrate your commitment to driving industry transformation
• Direct Access to Top-Tier Companies: Connect with carefully vetted, high-potential AgriFoodTech companies that can reshape your investment strategies and innovation initiatives
• Strategic Program Alignment: Leverage the FoodTech 500's extensive reach and credibility to attract exceptional participants for your innovation programs and strategic initiatives

These partnerships go beyond traditional sponsorship models—they're designed to create lasting value for both our partners and the innovative companies in our network.

Universal Application Requirement

Here's something crucial that every organization needs to understand: all businesses must submit new applications for the 2025 edition, including previous FoodTech 500 recipients and alumni.

This isn't just administrative procedure—it's essential to our ranking methodology. Our proprietary analytical frameworks rely on current, specific metrics that aren't available through public channels. The application process ensures we can access the most accurate, up-to-date data necessary for precise comparative rankings.

This requirement also reflects the dynamic nature of the AgriFoodTech sector. Companies evolve rapidly, market positions shift, and new innovations emerge constantly. By requiring fresh applications, we ensure our rankings reflect the current landscape rather than historical achievements.

Ready to Join the Revolution?

Application Deadline: November 15th, 2025
(Note: Forward Fooding reserves the authority to close applications ahead of schedule based on submission volume)

Official Winner Announcement: First Quarter 2026

The 2025 FoodTech 500 represents more than just a ranking—it's a gateway to joining the global community of organizations that are reimagining our food system. From breakthrough technologies that are transforming agriculture to innovative solutions addressing sustainability challenges, the companies featured in the FoodTech 500 are writing the future of food.

Applications are now live, and the window for submissions is open until November 15th, 2025. Don't wait—the most compelling innovations and strongest applications often come from teams that take the time to thoughtfully prepare their submissions.

Ready to take the next step?

• APPLY NOW for the 2025 FoodTech 500
• NOMINATE A COMPANY you believe deserves recognition
• BECOME AN AMBASSADOR and help shape the future of FoodTech
• EXPLORE PARTNERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES to align with industry leaders

Questions? Visit our FoodTech 500 FAQ or email us at info@forwardfooding.com.

Forward Fooding is the world's first collaborative platform for the Food & Beverage industry via FoodTech Data Intelligence and Corporate-Startup Collaboration – Learn more about our Consultancy and Scouting Services and our Startup Network.