Applications are open for upcycling startups to pitch at the annual Tyson Demo Day until May 1. Tyson Ventures, the venture capital arm of Tyson Foods, is looking for upcycling technology that would aid in Tyson’s operations as well as make the poultry industry more sustainable overall.
“Upcycling is a critical factor in our formula to sustainably feed the future. From streamlining costs to reducing materials to landfills, upcycling makes both economic and environmental sense for our business, the industry and the world economy,” said John R. Tyson, Tyson Ventures president and Tyson Foods executive vice president and CFO. “The creativity and passion the Demo Day applicants demonstrate in tackling a complex challenge in the food industry is incredibly inspiring.”
Accepted applicants will pitch their upcycling innovation during the event at Tyson Foods World Headquarters in Springdale, Arkansas, July 11.
2022 Tyson Demo Day
Last year’s inaugural demo day received 120 applications from over 20 countries of which 20 were selected to pitch at the event.
“It was an honor to pitch to Tyson Foods leadership. The opportunity to learn more about the company’s strategy and execution, while receiving feedback from Tyson’s leadership was invaluable in developing potential solutions,” said Aayush Thakur, co-founder and chief executive officer of FR8relay, a resident startup from Demo Day 2022. “We appreciated the opportunity to connect and network.”
The startups have the opportunity to build partnerships, establish mentorships and receive Tyson social media promotion.
What is upcycling?
Upcycling is turning waste, garbage, etc. into something useful rather than throwing it away. An example of upcycling in the poultry industry would be turning leftover produce waste into poultry feed.
“We’re embracing the circular economy and putting waste to work,” said Tyson “At Tyson Foods, this means reimagining and reusing materials and working to reduce our environmental footprint.”
