StartLife proudly announces a strategic partnership with The Hershey Company, a global snacking leader. Together, we will drive the shared ambition for sustainable advancements in food systems through collaboration with innovative startups.
The collaboration will connect startups from StartLife’s global ecosystem with Hershey’s innovation initiatives. With our shared open innovation approach, the partnership aims to develop sustainable food production practices that are environmentally responsible, socially beneficial, and economically viable for the future.
Investing in future-proof food systems
“Partnering with StartLife is an exciting step for us,” said Steven Hess, Director of Cocoa Science at The Hershey Company. “As we continue to innovate to meet the rising demand for sustainable food systems, this collaboration allows us to tap into StartLife’s vibrant community of startups. We’re eager to engage with startups developing better-for-you products and technologies that promote sustainable cocoa production.”
Hershey’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its significant investments in responsible sourcing and reduction of carbon footprint. This aligns with the common goal to create future-proof food systems.
“Through our partnership with StartLife, we aim to harness innovative solutions that contribute to a more sustainable future. This collaboration enables us to connect with forward-thinking startups that are shaping the future of food, amplifying our efforts to create a positive impact on the planet.”
Steven Hess, Director of Cocoa Science at The Hershey Company
Unlocking new opportunities
Hershey’s addition to StartLife’s corporate partner ecosystem strengthens StartLife’s ability to support startups with unique growth opportunities. The partnership also reinforces Hershey’s dedication to sustainability, providing startups access to a global brand known for its responsible food production and sustainable practices.
“We are thrilled to collaborate with The Hershey Company,” said Jorien Hattink, Startup Analyst at StartLife. “Hershey’s extensive experience and expertise, global influence, and commitment to sustainability brings sweet synergies with our startups. This partnership will unlock new opportunities for agrifoodtech entrepreneurs to scale their solutions and bring impactful innovations to the market.”
Empowering startups to drive positive change
Together, StartLife and Hershey are poised to drive positive change across the agrifoodtech landscape by empowering startups to jointly develop and scale impactful solutions.
Startups interested in working with The Hershey Company are invited to contact StartLife to explore collaboration opportunities.
About The Hershey Company
The Hershey Company (NYSE: HSY) is an industry-leading snacks company known for making more moments of goodness through its iconic brands, remarkable people and enduring commitment to doing the right thing for its people, planet, and communities. Hershey has more than 20,000 employees in the U.S. and worldwide who work daily to deliver delicious, high-quality products. The company has more than 90 brand names in approximately 80 countries that drive more than $11.2 billion in annual revenues, including Hershey’s, Reese’s, Kisses, Kit Kat®, Jolly Rancher, Twizzlers and Ice Breakers, and salty snacks including SkinnyPop, Pirate’s Booty and Dot’s Homestyle Pretzels.
