Validate your technology
Your primary focus will be to validate your product into our industry.
Functional Nutrition Open Innovation Challenge
With growing interest in proactive health and wellness, consumers are making more intentional food choices. They’re not just eating to satisfy hunger — they’re eating to feel better, live better, and do more. That’s why we’re focused on food that delivers real benefits beyond basic nutrition. From immunity support to mood balance and gut health, functional foods are shaping the future. And we know we can’t do it alone. We’re looking for passionate, purpose-driven partners who share our vision. If your product brings delicious health benefits to the table, we want to hear from you. Whether it’s a snack, a side, or a full meal — if it supports well-being, it belongs on our table. Together, we can bring innovation that truly makes a difference. Let’s build a healthier future, starting today.
Bringing Real Health Benefits to Every Bite
We’re on the lookout for innovations that don’t just taste good — they do good. Think immunity boosts, protein power, mood support, or natural energy lifts. Gut health, hydration, high-fibre — your product should bring real, functional benefits.
No Ideas — Only Impact-Ready Solutions
As part of our Venture Clienting program, we focus exclusively on solutions that are market-ready. We're looking for products that can scale fast — no concepts, just proven delivery. You'll need to show existing manufacturing capabilities that meet industry standards. Owned patents or protected IP are a must, ensuring your innovation is truly yours. We work with start-ups backed by solid funding, offering financial stability for at least two years. If you're ready to hit the ground running, we're ready to talk.
Clean Labels, Honest Food
We believe food should be as real as the people who enjoy it. Our commitment is to natural ingredients — pure, simple, and responsibly sourced. Artificial additives, preservatives, or anything synthetic just don’t make the cut. We stand for clean labels that our consumers can trust and understand at a glance. Taste, nutrition, and integrity should come from nature — not a lab. If it’s not real food, it’s not for us.
Built to Last
We're experts in frozen food — and that means long-lasting freshness is non-negotiable. We're looking for products that can guarantee a minimum 12-month shelf-life. Whether already frozen or easy to adapt for freezing, resilience is key. Our consumers count on consistency, quality, and flavour that stands the test of time. Shelf-stable doesn't mean compromise — it means smart, sustainable innovation. If your product lasts, it lasts with us.
Why Join the Challenge?
Learn
Immerse yourself in the Frozen Foods world as we provide insights into industry dynamics, development processes, manufacturing, and purchasing within the sector.
Sell
Develop a compelling use case and business strategy to gain traction for your product within the frozen food context.
Are we a fit?
You have:
a technology or product or service that contributes to innovation at Nomad Foods
You have:
a functional product or prototype
You have:
a full-time team and solid funding for the next 2+ years
You have:
a clear vision on how to scale your business
Looks like we are a fit.
Start your applicationTimelines
September 30th, 2025
Deadline for submission
End of October, 2025
Semi - Finalist announced
November 2025
Pitch session
January 2026
Finalist Announced
Join the challenge
Are you ready to bring functional, future-ready food to life? This is your chance to partner with Nomad Foods through our first Venture Clienting Competition. We're looking for bold ideas, proven products, and passionate teams ready to make real impact. Let's shape the future of food together.
