Grupo Alpina and Rockstart Announce Investment in Six AgriFoodTech Startups

Grupo Alpina e Rockstart have selected the first six startups to receive investment from their newly established AgriFoodTech fund, which aims to support innovation within the agri-food supply chain. The chosen startups operate across various segments of the industry and are based in Colombia, Chile, Brazil, and Argentina.

After receiving more than 700 applications from startups across 14 countries, including Colombia, Ecuador, Central America, Chile, Brazil, Argentina, Mexico, and Venezuela, six companies were selected. Each will receive an initial investment averaging $100,000 USD and will participate in a six-month acceleration program. The selected startups are:

• M4Life: Develops technology that enhances the efficiency of biological inputs.
• Bloomspal: A global agro-industry dropshipping platform.
• Gooms: Offers vitamin products to promote healthy lifestyles.
• Mercado Único: A B2B marketplace that enables the sale of excess inventory for food and beverage manufacturers.
• Codebreaker Bioscience: Utilizes microbiome technology to improve food production with reduced environmental impact.
• Wëia: Provides “Plant Now, Pay Later” loans for farmers.

The selection process reflects the growing opportunities in the agricultural sector, according to Ernesto Fajardo, President of Grupo Alpina. “We are excited by the level of interest and impact generated by the initiative,” Fajardo said, expressing confidence that collaborative solutions can benefit Colombia and other regional markets.

Tailored Acceleration Program and Ongoing Support Network

The six startups will enter a customized acceleration program, during which Grupo Alpina will support pilot project implementation without exclusivity requirements, while Rockstart will contribute its extensive network and experience in fundraising and startup acceleration. Over the course of the program, each startup will receive tailored mentorship, access to experimental labs, and collaborative spaces with experts from both organizations.

“At Rockstart, we understand that every startup requires a unique approach to maximize its growth potential,” said Felipe Santamaría, Managing Director of Rockstart Latin America. He emphasized that growth targets will vary depending on each startup’s sector, with biotech companies following different growth paths than those focused on software.

After completing the six-month program, the startups will gain access to Rockstart’s lifetime support network, which includes continued mentorship, opportunities for commercial partnerships, and guidance for future investment rounds.

This strategic alliance between Grupo Alpina and Rockstart marks a commitment to fostering a more innovative and sustainable agri-food ecosystem in Latin America. Combining Grupo Alpina’s corporate expertise with Rockstart’s specialization in startup acceleration, the AgriFoodTech fund offers a valuable platform for entrepreneurs focused on transforming the food supply chain through technology and innovation.