In Arkansas, Tyson Foods, Inc. launched a $150 million venture capital fund called Tyson New Ventures LLC to invest in companies that are developing breakthrough technologies, business models and products to sustainably feed a growing world population.
The fund will concentrate on three areas in the food space: commercializing delicious, safe and affordable alternative proteins; tackling food insecurity and food loss through market making and other commercial models; and tapping the internet of food to promote more precise and productive resource application, safety and consumer empowerment in the food chain.
Tyson New Ventures will be based in Chicago and led by Mary Kay James, who has been named vice president and general manager. James and her team will seek startups that complement Tyson Foods’ existing business and product development efforts and invest in entrepreneurial food businesses that are pioneering new products and technologies to make meaningful changes in food systems.