PepsiCo’s Greenhouse Accelerator (GHAC) programme is back for its third year in the Asia Pacific (APAC) region, and it’s calling on sustainability-focused startups from Malaysia and beyond to join the journey.
Claiming to be the only pilot-oriented accelerator in APAC’s food and beverage sector, GHAC is here to empower entrepreneurs to tackle pressing challenges like climate change, sustainable agriculture, and circular economy.
If you’ve got a game-changing idea, this might just be your moment.
What is the GHAC programme?
GHAC isn’t your average accelerator. It’s an equity-free initiative designed to identify and nurture startups that are doing incredible things for the environment and our global food systems.
The equity-free nature of the programme ensures that entrepreneurs retain full ownership and control of their businesses while receiving the support they need to scale.
Over the past two years, GHAC has proven its worth, launching 15 pilots across seven APAC markets—including Malaysia. These aren’t just experiments; they’re real-world collaborations driving meaningful change.
PepsiCo’s VP Supply Chain A/NZ and Chief Sustainability Officer Ashley Brown said, “PepsiCo’s Greenhouse Accelerator Program is dedicated to empowering startups with the tools, resources, and mentorship required to drive meaningful change and scale innovations across our food systems.”
This year, GHAC continues its mission by focusing on solutions that address the circular economy, renewable energy, and sustainable farming practices—all critical areas for a sustainable future.
Who should apply and how?
If you’re a startup with a solution that could revolutionise any of these areas—circular economy, climate action, or sustainable agriculture—you’re exactly who GHAC is looking for. Whether you’re working on renewable energy tech, zero-waste packaging, or innovative farming practices, this programme is your chance to shine.
Here are the criteria for startups applying to the programme:
- Pre-revenue of up to US$7 million (RM31.5 million) in sales in the last financial year.
- Have business operations in one of the participating APAC region markets (China, Singapore, Thailand, Australia, Indonesia, New Zealand, Brunei, Cambodia, East Timor, Fiji, Japan, Korea, Laos, Malaysia, Mongolia, Myanmar, Pacific Islands, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Vietnam).
- Be willing to work with PepsiCo Greenhouse Accelerator mentors and attend Accelerator events throughout the April to September programme.
Think you’ve got what it takes? Applications are now open, and you can visit the official PepsiCo Greenhouse Accelerator website to apply by March 13, 2025.
Why should Malaysian startups care?
Malaysia’s startup ecosystem has been buzzing with innovation, particularly in the sustainability sector. GHAC presents a golden opportunity for local entrepreneurs to showcase their ideas on a global stage while receiving unmatched support.
Each of the 10 programme finalists will receive a US$20,000 (RM90,045) grant, along with mentorship from PepsiCo’s top executives and industry experts. The winner walks away with an additional US$100,000 (RM450,225) and the chance to pilot their solution directly with PepsiCo.
Still not convinced? Just ask Alterno, the 2024 winner. This startup developed a groundbreaking sand battery technology for renewable energy storage, providing a lower-emission alternative to traditional snack drying methods.
Their innovation not only helped PepsiCo reduce costs and emissions but also demonstrated how a small idea can have a massive impact.
Learn from the best through mentorship and collaboration
What sets GHAC apart is its hands-on approach. Startups aren’t left to fend for themselves; they’re paired with PepsiCo’s seasoned experts and collaborators like GC Ventures and Circulate Capital.
These mentors provide tailored feedback, help refine solutions, and open doors to a robust network of industry leaders. This mentorship is invaluable for startups navigating the complexities of scaling sustainable solutions.
Brown added, “Applicants benefit not only from mentorship with seasoned professionals but also from direct collaboration with PepsiCo, a global industry leader that drives the programme and acts as the end user of their innovations.”
It’s like having a backstage pass to the inner workings of one of the world’s biggest F&B companies.
Malaysia has no shortage of innovative thinkers, and GHAC is the perfect platform to bring those ideas to life. As sustainability becomes increasingly important to consumers, investors, and businesses alike, programmes like this are vital for staying ahead of the curve.
So, why wait? Start your application today and take the first step towards driving impactful change.
- Learn more about PepsiCo’s Greenhouse Accelerator programme here.
- Read other articles we’ve written about Malaysian startups here.
Featured Image Credit: PepsiCo Greenhouse
