Village Capital Launches Accelerator to Reduce Food Waste in Latin America

Village Capital, in collaboration with the Posner Foundation of Pittsburgh, has announced the launch of the third edition of the Reshaping Food Systems LatAm accelerator program. The initiative aims to support ten startups across Latin America that focus on reducing food waste and improving food security. The program will prioritize startups that empower consumers, enhance food center efficiency, and mitigate food loss in production and distribution networks.

Food waste is a global challenge, with one-third of all food produced for human consumption lost or wasted annually, amounting to an estimated USD 940 billion. In Latin America, where nearly a quarter of the world’s meat supply is produced, food insecurity remains a pressing issue. In 2022, 60.6% of the region’s population experienced moderate or severe food insecurity. Inefficiencies in infrastructure and logistics contribute to an average of 223 kg of food waste per person per year. Given the region’s significant role in global food production, addressing these challenges is crucial for sustainability and economic stability.

The accelerator program is accepting applications until March 14, with selected startups participating in activities from May to October 2025. Participants will engage with industry experts, investors, and ecosystem partners through two online workshops and an in-person summit. A designated founder or executive from each startup will travel to Mexico City, with expenses covered, to connect with regional stakeholders. Additionally, they will receive technical assistance, including access to paid consultants, to support the development of their solutions.

Startups that complete the program will receive USD 4,000 from the Posner Foundation of Pittsburgh to further scale their initiatives. All applicants will also gain access to Abaca, Village Capital’s free web platform, which provides tools for fundraising strategies, investment readiness assessment, and milestone planning.

Village Capital has been active in Latin America since 2015, running over 20 accelerator programs across more than 20 countries, including Bolivia, Guatemala, and Paraguay. The organization has supported over 200 startups focused on economic mobility, financial health, and sustainable agriculture. The Posner Foundation of Pittsburgh, meanwhile, invests in initiatives addressing food waste prevention and structural solutions to social, economic, and environmental challenges.