PepsiCo’s Greenhouse Accelerator Program Launches Third Edition for APAC Startups Driving Sustainability
PepsiCo, a global leader in convenient foods and beverages, is inviting applications for the third edition of its Greenhouse Accelerator Program (GHAC) in the Asia Pacific (APAC) region. Designed to foster sustainable innovation, this mentorship-based, pilot-oriented initiative aims to support startups developing solutions in circular economy, climate action, and sustainable agriculture.
Empowering Sustainability in APAC
As a leading incubator for sustainability-focused startups in the region, GHAC underscores PepsiCo’s commitment to advancing progress in critical areas such as reducing environmental impact, promoting renewable energy, and enhancing sustainable farming practices. With 15 pilot projects already initiated across the 2023 and 2024 cohorts, the program continues to test and scale solutions that can drive meaningful environmental and business change.
According to recent data, 39% of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in APAC struggle to align environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) efforts with internal business growth objectives. PepsiCo’s GHAC directly addresses this gap by equipping SMEs with expert guidance and resources to achieve sustainable growth while aligning with broader ESG goals.
A Comprehensive Support System
The GHAC offers selected finalists an equity-free grant of US$20,000, with the winning startup receiving an additional US$100,000 to further develop and scale their solution. Beyond funding, startups gain access to a tailored mentorship program led by PepsiCo executives and business accelerator experts. This collaboration helps participants navigate challenges, refine their innovations, and explore pilot opportunities within PepsiCo’s operations.
In addition, startups will have the opportunity to pitch their innovations to PepsiCo executives, venture capitalists, and investors at a live event in Shanghai. The event also provides a platform to foster partnerships and potential pilot implementations, further integrating promising solutions into PepsiCo’s sustainability journey.
The program’s track record reflects its success in empowering startups to scale innovations for a sustainable future. Over the past two years, GHAC has launched 15 startup pilots across APAC and engaged with 95 venture capital firms and institutions, creating a robust sustainability ecosystem that benefits both entrepreneurs and PepsiCo.
Strategic Partnerships and Ecosystem Building
This year’s GHAC edition has expanded its ecosystem with partnerships involving three venture capital funds: PTTGC, Twynam, and Circulate Capital. PepsiCo’s longstanding collaborations with bottling partners Suntory PepsiCo Beverage Thailand (SPBT) and Suntory PepsiCo Vietnam Beverage (SPVB) also continue to play a pivotal role in supporting startups across Thailand and Vietnam.
Through these partnerships, the program offers participants access to decades of industry expertise, a strong partner network, and invaluable insights to refine solutions and shape pilot opportunities. These resources are critical in addressing the growing importance of sustainability for investors, consumers, and employees alike.
Success stories: Alterno and Takachar’s Journeys
Alterno, the winner of the 2024 GHAC, exemplifies the program’s impact. The startup is pioneering Asia’s first low-cost thermal energy storage solution for renewable energy through its innovative sand battery technology. This breakthrough offers a lower-emission alternative to traditional snack drying methods, showcasing the potential for reduced energy costs and emissions while contributing to PepsiCo’s sustainability goals.
Takachar, one of the finalists selected from the Philippines in 2024 , has developed a revolutionary portable biomass conversion technology. This innovation allows rural communities to transform agricultural waste into marketable products such as biochar, reducing pollution while creating new revenue streams. Takachar’s solution has the potential to significantly mitigate environmental impact while driving economic benefits for farmers and communities.
An Opportunity to Transform
Accelerator programs like GHAC play a crucial role in helping entrepreneurs meet sustainability expectations and remain competitive. By collaborating directly with PepsiCo, participants gain access to an unparalleled support system that fosters innovation and accelerates growth.
Applications for the PepsiCo Greenhouse Accelerator 2025 APAC Sustainability Edition are now open. Interested startups can apply by visiting greenhouseaccelerator.com/apac/ or PepsiCo’s LinkedIn page at linkedin.com/company/pepsico.
