Startups against hunger in the world: The World Food Programme (WFP) of the United Nations operates a Innovation AcceleratorWe spoke with the head of the accelerator, Bernhard Kowatsch.
What does the Innovation Accelerator do? Please introduce yourselves briefly.
Based in Munich, the UN World Food Programme's Innovation Accelerator supports startups and innovators in implementing their ideas for a world without hunger. We bring together experts from humanitarian aid and development cooperation, entrepreneurs from the private sector, and other innovators to further develop solutions, test initial prototypes, and accelerate the dissemination of successful ideas.
Startups work alongside humanitarian aid workers and have the opportunity to test their ideas within the WFP's global network in developing countries. Our team consists of approximately 25 employees, including serial startup founders and experts who have already successfully implemented innovations in developing countries.
What do you focus on when working with startups?
We are open to both for-profit and non-profit startups that could develop the next "disruption" in the fight against hunger. In addition to an innovative solution approach that can help many people, we are also looking for the best minds who are experienced and willing to develop their solutions together with people in a local context.
Why did you locate your accelerator in Munich?
We looked at several locations worldwide. For us, Munich offers the ideal combination of an innovation ecosystem—a strong private sector, research, NGOs, and a rapidly growing startup scene—for example, in the fields of finance, technology, and science. The accelerator already works with local partners, such as the German Academy of Science and Engineering (Acatech), the German Aerospace Center (DLR), local branches of international technology companies, and many more.
Please complete: “To be successful, a startup must…”
…have a great idea and a strong founding team that will navigate the ups and downs that are inevitable in a startup.
What is the biggest mistake a startup can make?
Focusing so much on the idea that you forget the original problem or don't take enough account of the feedback from the "users".
The trend of the year is…?
Blockchain and Artificial Intelligence!
Last but not least: Who do startups approach when they want to talk to you?
Startups that have solutions to global hunger can contact us directly — we're always looking for new ideas and teams to collaborate with. Startups can apply on our website innovation.wfp.org apply.
