RECENT ACTIVITIES
RECENT WORKS AND INITIATIVES INCLUDE ADVISORY, RESEARCH AND INNOVATION ACTIONS IN EUROPE, SOUTH ASIA AND WEST AFRICA.
INDIGENOUS PLANT RESEARCH
PHoto: Plant research
Many plants in emerging markets across the world have been used for centuries as part of the daily cuisine. They are nutritious and often come with perceived health benefits. Much though is not understood about the benefits or risks of these fruits, vegetables, grains and other plants. Thorough research can help local populations to reduce the dependence on foreign agricultural imports, and add to local circular food systems. Mai Minds is initiating this activity and searches for partners to join into this effort.
FOOD LOSS AND WASTE
PHoto: Plant research
We are active in post-harvest loss management in West Africa since 2018, working with a local startup. In Europe, the situation for Food Loss and Waste (FLW) is different as food is mainly lost at processing, retail and consumption stages. Mai Minds contributed with its expertise and tools to three work packages in a public funded European project proposal. As part of this an analysis was performed on the industry impact a food technology innovation would have should its development be successfully concluded.
PARTNERING IN INDONESIA
Photo: Edamame field in Indonesia
Indonesia is new to us. While very familiar with other countries in the region, we have not yet gathered much on-the-ground expertise in Indonesia. We are currently screening the Central Java region for private and public partners, as well as universities to join into research and innovation as part of our mission to strengthen entrepreneurs and innovative companies.
EASTERN EUROPE
Map of Eastern Europe
With respect to food, food processing, biodiversity and ecosystems Eastern Europe has its own challenges and opportunities. Mai Minds recognizes this and is actively engaged in the development of food and agriculture innovations coming out of Eastern Europe. At a kickoff event in November 2020 in Romania, Mai Minds laid out its perspective on successful research and innovation activities that have significant participation from Eastern Europe.
SMART AGRITECH
PHoto: Startup team, West Africa
Mai Minds supports a young startup team of engineers and tech developers in developing a technical ecosystem for smart and small agriculture machinery, suitable for smallholder farms in West Africa. The company won multiple awards, both for their engineering talent but also the social impact. Thanks to the technology children can focus on their school education instead of working on the farm.