Anheuser-Busch InBev Launches $100,000 Global Sustainability Accelerator

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Anheuser-Busch InBev, the world’s largest brewery, has this week launched its 100+ Accelerator which will make available up to $100,000 per entrant with an idea to solve some of the world’s most pressing global sustainability issues.

In a world where best business practice is focused first and foremost on the easiest way to make a buck, it is refreshing to see companies making decisions that seem to be instead centered around what’s best for the world (or at least, companies that are able to pull the wool so thoroughly over our eyes it makes no difference).

One such company that has made a habit of late of making socially-focused decisions is the world’s largest brewing company, Anheuser-Busch InBev, known for making drinks such as Budweiser, Corona, and Stella Artois. In the last year or so, the company has moved to commit itself to a transition that will see it powered 100% by renewable electricity by 2025. This won’t just be a decision to be hidden behind-the-scenes but will be plastered across its bottles so that everyone who drinks a Budweiser knows the importance of renewable energy.

However, as of this week, Anheuser-Busch InBev has decided to take its commitment to global sustainability and spread its wealth to those with a similar worldview. Specifically, according to an announcement made on Thursday, the company announced it was launching the 100+ Accelerator which will be open to “academics, entrepreneurs, scientists, and technologists” who believe they have an idea “to solve some of the most pressing global sustainability issues.”

AB InBev is looking for startups with solutions to 10 key challenges it has outlined in a range of areas including water stewardship, farmer productivity, product upcycling, responsible sourcing, and green logistics. Startups will be able to apply for the Accelerator which will provide mentorship, access to new networks, and funding of up to $100,000 per company.

“It’s incumbent on global businesses to play a bigger role in creating a better world for all,” said Tony Milikin, AB InBev’s Chief Sustainability & Procurement Officer. “At AB InBev we have a long-term vision to build a company to last for the next 100+ years, which relies on driving sustainability across our business. Our approach is rooted in the communities where we live and work, and we are well positioned to support entrepreneurs who are tackling local challenges. Through the 100+ Accelerator, innovators will benefit from our resources, experience and global reach to speed their progress and scale.”

The Accelerator program will run for 6 months and be structured to accelerate “the traction and growth” of the selected startups, and be provided with access to a network of NGOs, venture capitalists, successful entrepreneurs, as well as AB InBev’s own experts and executives. The Accelerator is already open for applicants.

“Today’s global sustainability challenges provide us with some of the greatest opportunities for development and innovation,” added Maisie Devine, Global Director of AB InBev’s 100+ Accelerator. “We want to empower driven and committed entrepreneurs who are solving problems in their own communities. The 100+ Accelerator will draw on our company’s entrepreneurial spirit and our constant drive to deliver faster, better results.”


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Joshua S Hill

I'm a Christian, a nerd, a geek, and I believe that we're pretty quickly directing planet-Earth into hell in a handbasket! I also write for Fantasy Book Review (.co.uk), and can be found writing articles for a variety of other sites. Check me out at about.me for more.

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