In the vibrant landscape of food technology, innovation knows no bounds. Every breakthrough promises a more sustainable, healthier future. Today, we delve into the journey of Enifer, a Finnish startup spearheading the charge in sustainable food solutions. Mr. Heikki Keskitalo, one of Enifer’s co-founders, shares his insights and experiences from participating in the esteemed SPACE-F program. The first global FoodTech startup incubator and accelerator in Thailand bringing together leading FoodTech startups and corporates through an innovative mentorship, business connections, and co-working program (no equity taken) – established through the cooperation of Thai Union Group, the National Innovation Agency, Mahidol University, and supported by industry leading corporates.
1. Please introduce yourself.
My name is Heikki Keskitalo. I´m one of the cofounders of Enifer. I´m also the business development manager of the company.
2. Could you please give a brief overview about your company and product?
Enifer is a 3 year old startup. We are bringing sustainable Pekilo mycoprotein to aquafeed and to food markets.
3. Why and how did you participate in SPACE-F program? What is the motivation?
We joined SPACE-F because it was a good opportunity for us to familiarize ourselves with Southeast Asia’s aquafeed market and the possible raw materials that the region could provide to our Pekilo fermentation process.
4. Could you please share some highlight of your experience joining this program?
One highlight for us was to create a relationship with ThaiUnion with the kind help of Chris Aurand. Other highlight was creating a relationship with MitrPhol which has large resources of suitable raw material for our process (bioethanol vinasse).
5. Looking back, what were the key advantages of participating in the accelerator program?
Learning about the economic realities of aquafeed business and realizing that Pekilo mycoprotein has unique advantages as an ingredient in shrimp feed.
6. Did participating in the accelerator program open up opportunities for investment, partnership, collaboration from SE Asia or international sources?
Yes it did. As previously mentioned good relationships with Thai Union and Mitr Phol.
7. What were the challenges you faced during the program and how did you overcome them?
Main challenge was to convince Thai Union that Pekilo mycoprotein might be good ingredient in shrimp feed. It took a bit of time, but I think we are getting there😊
8. How did the accelerator program contribute to your personal development?
It was quite a leap for me to travel to Bangkok for one month, since before that I hadn´t travelled in South east Asia. It was great to notice have welcoming and kind all of the Space F people and in general people of Thailand were. I learned also how important personal relationships are in doing business and R&D in Thailand.
9. What advice would you give to startups entering the accelerator program to make the most of their experience?
Have an open mind, and learn some of the cultural etiquettes of Thailand before you travel there. When some meetings are agreed be punctual.
10. What foodtech trends do you foresee in Thailand and the Nordic region moving forward?
I think in alternative protein sector the big thing, and one to succeed economically, are hybrid products that blend alternative proteins and traditional protein sources.
Joining the Movement
Enifer’s story with SPACE-F serves as a beacon of inspiration for startups worldwide, illustrating the transformative power of collaboration, innovation, and cross-cultural exchange between Thailand and Nordic Countries. As the application deadline approaches, aspiring entrepreneurs are invited to seize the opportunity and become catalysts for change. For more information on Enifer and its groundbreaking initiatives, visit Enifer’s website.
Join the Space-F 2024 Batch5 now!
Deadline application: 19th April 2024
Apply now : Accelerator program / Incubator program
An Accelerator Program is designed for startups with experience and products that are already functional. The program helps startups scale their businesses.
Incubator Program is designed to provide a solid foundation for startup businesses and help ideas become tangible and successful. The program offers startups access to mentorship, resources, and funding to help them grow and succeed.
For more information: https://www.space-f.co/
Contact info: contact@space-f.com
Follow us on: TNIU-Thailand and Nordic Countries Innovation Unit