Welcome to “Start2Scale – Food Business Support from Idea to Concept”

This business short course is a collaboration between Weihenstephan-Triesdorf University of Applied Sciences and the PRIMA project ProxIMed, which promotes the integration of sustainable alternative proteins into the food and feed systems of the Mediterranean region.

Business development for startups and early-stage founder teams plays a key role in this project. The goal: to support participants in building entrepreneurial skills and turning innovative ideas into scalable, impact-driven ventures.

The Start2Scale program is structured in two phases:

🔹 A 6-month short course (March–August 2026) combining online courses, webinars, and workshops on topics such as food technology, branding, financial planning, and business modeling.
🔹 An optional 6-month mentorship phase starting after the course, focused on personal coaching, 1:1 support, and strategic follow-up for selected participants.

Why should you enrole?

🌍 Global Perspective
Collaborate with students, researchers, and early-stage founders from across the Mediterranean region and beyond. Learn from real startup cases and connect with an international network of experts and institutions.

🚀 Startup Readiness
Get equipped with practical knowledge in business development, branding, funding, and regulatory basics – tailored to the food and alt-protein sectors. Learn how to turn your idea into a scalable venture.

📚 Comprehensive Content
Benefit from a diverse curriculum that combines entrepreneurial skills with key topics in food and agricultural technology – from shelf life and product development to market access and team building.

🎓 University Certificate
Earn a university certificate upon successful completion of the program – a valuable addition to your academic and professional profile.

Key Data:

Course Start 16. March 2026
Course End 30. September 2026  (Summer break in August)
Location online & hybrid
Entry requirement none
Tuition fee for free
Successfull participation 🏅 University Certificate from the University of Applied Sciences
Registration Please send your completed registration form to Eva Martell: info@fsiws.com Download: 📂 Registration form training program 2026
Registration Deadline February 15, 2026

What you’ll learn in Start2Scale:

Entrepreneurship & Business Basics:

Gain essential skills in business modeling, financial planning, marketing, and scaling strategies – all tailored to launching and growing startups in the alt-protein sector.

Food Technology & Product Development:

Get introduced to key topics in food innovation: product design, shelf-life, food safety, and sustainable processing technologies.

Branding, Sales & Communication:

Learn how to build a strong brand, craft your story, and reach your audience effectively through digital channels and sales strategies.

Real-World Application & Mentorship:

Work on your own business idea with support from experts and peers. Upon completing the course, receive a university certificate and access optional mentorship for deeper coaching and guidance.

Who should enrole?

  • Students & University Teams

    You’re studying or working at a university and interested in launching your own startup in the field of food, sustainability, or alternative proteins? This is your starting point.

  • Early-Stage Founders & Startups

    You already have a business idea or have started building your startup and want to sharpen your strategy, expand your network, and gain hands-on knowledge.

Any Questions or do you want to participate in the Short Course?

Please send your completed registration form to:

Eva Martell: info@fsiws.com

Download registration form here:

📂 Registration form training program 2026