MHESI Launches SPACE-F Batch 7, Strengthening Thailand’s FoodTech Ecosystem and Wellness Economy

BANGKOK, THAILAND – On May 1, 2026, Prof. Dr. Yodchanan Wongsawat, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), announced the launch of “SPACE-F Year 7.” This initiative, spearheaded by the National Innovation Agency (Public Organization) or NIA, in collaboration with Thai Union Group PCL, Mahidol University, and corporate partners including Thai Beverage PLC, Nestlé (Thai) Ltd., and Foodland Ventures from Taiwan, marks a significant step in Thailand’s ambition to establish itself as a global leader in food technology.

The Significance of SPACE-F Year 7

SPACE-F Year 7 is Thailand’s inaugural global foodtech startup incubator and accelerator program. It aims to address challenges within the food industry through sustainable innovation. Prof. Dr. Yodchanan emphasized the importance of integrating technology with traditional Thai flavors, stating that advancements must not compromise the essence of Thai cuisine. He plans to present innovative food products developed by participating startups at an upcoming Cabinet meeting, allowing the Prime Minister to experience firsthand the potential of FoodTech as a cornerstone of the nation’s future.

Focus on Wellness Economy and Biodiversity

The Minister highlighted the role of the Wellness Economy as a new growth engine, extending beyond food to include AI, ICT, and software. This initiative aims to position Thailand as a global hub for wellness tourism, supported by the Board of Investment (BOI) in fostering investment opportunities. Furthermore, startups are encouraged to leverage Thailand’s rich biodiversity and geographical indications (GI) to replace imported raw materials, thereby reducing costs and enhancing the country’s unique identity in the food sector.

Connecting Startups with Industry Leaders

The SPACE-F program emphasizes collaboration between startups and established corporations, facilitating connections that can lead to Series A or B funding. This approach is particularly crucial in the current global landscape, where food and nutrition security are paramount. Prof. Dr. Yodchanan noted that the program provides a platform for startups to devise solutions that address global challenges, with government support to foster innovation.

SPACE-F Year 7 features 20 startups from 10 countries, focusing on the Proof of Concept (POC) strategy to ensure these ventures can transition to commercialization on an international scale. Dr. Krithpaka Boonfueng, Executive Director of NIA, stated that the program has successfully incubated and accelerated over 100 startups from 18 countries over the past six years, generating funding exceeding 5.1 billion THB. This year, the program received a record 204 applicants from 57 countries, reflecting the growing confidence in SPACE-F as a global platform for food innovation.

Strategic Partnerships and Technological Advancements

The SPACE-F program serves as a vital mechanism for developing a robust foodtech startup ecosystem by connecting knowledge, technology, and industry. Startups will have opportunities to co-develop and test real products with corporate partners, gaining access to expert networks and state-of-the-art infrastructure. This includes collaborations with Thai Union for protein innovations, ThaiBev and Nestlé for health solutions, and Mahidol University’s deep-tech research facilities.

Thai Union Group PCL, as a co-founding partner, aims to elevate the standards of future protein products through industrial-level testing and innovation. The company emphasizes a “No Equity Taken” approach, allowing startups to maintain ownership of their innovations while fostering long-term growth.

Mahidol University contributes its expertise in food science and biotechnology, providing startups access to advanced laboratories and research facilities. This collaboration is crucial for transitioning research into market-ready products, enhancing Thailand’s competitiveness in the global foodtech landscape.

Thai Beverage Public Company Limited underscores the importance of continuous research and development, supporting startups in discovering solutions that meet global market needs. Nestlé, as a strategic partner, focuses on elevating foodtech startups through the transfer of R&D knowledge and product development experience, aligning with sustainability goals.

Foodland Ventures, a leading venture capital firm from Taiwan, aims to bridge innovations between Taiwan and Thailand, facilitating access to international markets for foodtech startups. This partnership is pivotal in building a “FoodTech Corridor” that enhances startup potential and drives sustainable growth in the food industry.

Diverse Startups in SPACE-F Year 7

The SPACE-F Year 7 program features a diverse range of startups, each focusing on innovative solutions within the foodtech sector. Notable participants include:

Accelerator Program Startups

1. Terra Bioindustries Inc (Canada): Upcycles agricultural waste into high-value ingredients for various industries.
2. Nucaps (Spain): Develops functional protein ingredients using microencapsulation technology.
3. BeNatureBioLab (South Korea): Utilizes nano and microencapsulation technology for functional ingredients.
4. Kinava (South Korea): Converts food waste into biofertilizer and biogas using HydroThermal Carbonization technology.
5. ComexSoft (Spain): Offers a near real-time market intelligence platform for retail data.
6. PROTINOS (Thailand): Produces high-protein noodles from egg whites and soybeans.
7. SicPama (South Korea): A QR ordering and payment platform for restaurants.
8. Nourish Ingredients (Australia): Creates animal-free fats through precision fermentation.
9. Kresko RNAtech (USA/Argentina): Develops nutrients from biological RNA for dietary supplements.
10. Agrifreeze (Singapore): Innovates freezing technology to maintain food quality.

Incubator Program Startups

1. Eatwellconcept (Thailand): An AI-powered platform for personalized therapeutic diets.
2. AmaranthLab (UK): Produces protein ingredients from amaranth for blood sugar control.
3. Openfarming (Saudi Arabia): An AI system for food distributors to optimize inventory management.
4. Zuppar Reborn (Thailand): Biodegradable stickers made from pineapple waste.
5. VeriPura (Thailand/Singapore): An AI and Blockchain platform for product traceability.
6. YiXingYuan (Taiwan): A modular fruit processing factory utilizing High Voltage Electric Field technology.
7. JOLA (Thailand): Develops vitamin-infused jelly pet food.
8. UPLI (UK): A precision fermentation platform for functional proteins.
9. Emerald Plast (Thailand): Biodegradable food materials and packaging.
10. Squizify (Thailand): A digital food safety platform integrating IoT devices.

The SPACE-F Year 7 program exemplifies a collaborative effort to foster innovation within the foodtech sector, providing startups with the resources and networks necessary to thrive in a competitive global market.

Source: www.zawya.com

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