Simplot Foods is preparing to launch a food technology incubator as part of a new food innovation program initiated by the company.
To this end, the company is running a competition, dubbed a ‘hackathon’, for programmers, designers, entrepreneurs and marketers interested in creating digital solutions to problems facing the food industry.
The event, called #HackFoodbacking, starts this Friday at Fishburners' Sydney innovation and start-up hub.
Over the weekend, participants will work together with mentors and develop potential solutions that will then be judged at the end by a panel of experts.
Organisers say the event starts with 30-second pitches from entrepreneurs on Friday evening; then up to 100 “foodie-preneurs” will pitch ideas and spend the weekend working together to develop the best digital solutions to solve seven core challenges facing the food industry.
The seven challenges are: 1. Food Waste 2. Getting to market 3. Customer retention 4. Food traceability 5. Improving agribusiness (food production) 6. Convenience and 7. Healthy eating.
The winner will then be given the opportunity to pitch their idea to a panel of investors to receive $30,000 in seed funding, and be involved in the Simplot Food Innovation Program.
While most hackathons are dominated by men, organisers say #HackFood is attracting strong interest from female participants.
#HackFood organisers are inviting anyone interested in the food industry and in developing new technology to register online and participate in the event by visiting www.hackfood.com.au.
