Mondelēz International opens applications for CoLab Tech 2026  

USA – Mondelēz International has opened applications for its 2026 CoLab Tech accelerator, inviting up to 10 global startups to collaborate on snack innovations addressing climate resilience, wellness ingredients, and sustainable packaging.   

The program targets early-stage firms with a minimum viable product and at least 5 employees, prioritizing diverse leadership; applications close March 31 via their website.   

This seventh edition aligns with Mondelēz’s Vision 2030, accelerating R&D amid supply disruptions and shifting consumer habits toward indulgent yet healthier bites.  

CoLab Tech 2026 emphasizes four pillars: climate-resilient tech for cocoa and wheat supply chains via fermentation and regenerative agriculture; breakthrough performance tools such as energy-efficient materials and AI-driven analytics; next-generation ingredients that boost fibre and protein for wellness; and plastic-free packaging innovations that preserve quality and safety.     

Selected startups gain virtual sessions, one-on-one mentorship from Mondelēz experts, networking, proof-of-concept testing, and visibility to scale snack-centric solutions commercially.   

Program leader Paula Hemerly stressed urgency: “We are experiencing seismic shifts in consumer consumption and shopping behaviors, global supply chain disruptions, an explosion of digital commerce and heightened appreciation for indulgence; CoLab Tech helps us envision and apply the future to our business, while supporting those who are pioneering the next generation of snack-centric technologies. “”  

The CoLab Tech curriculum is designed to be a mutually beneficial and actionable experience.  

The cohort will be mentored by best-in-class experts across all aspects of the value chain, from commercial readiness to market valuation to proof-of-concept testing, as well as networking, ecosystem building, storytelling, and visibility.  

Applications will be open from January 22 through March 31 to startups worldwide that have reached a minimum viable product in their development process and have at least 5 employees.   

Startups with diverse and minority board members will be an added advantage for selection.   

Past cohorts yielded hits like alternative cocoa butters and upcycled ingredients; fueling portfolio expansions amid regulatory pushes for sustainability.   

Diverse applicants gain an edge, reflecting Mondelēz’s inclusion goals in a sector where women and minorities helm just 20% of food tech ventures.   

As indulgence rebounds post-inflation, CoLab Tech positions Mondelēz ahead of rivals, blending corporate scale with startup speed.   

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