From Start-to-Table acceleration program by Unicorn Factory Lisboa

What is From Start-to-Table?

From Start-to-Table is an acceleration program by Unicorn Factory Lisboa, with the institutional support of Turismo de Portugal and the main support of Delta Cafés. Its main mission is to drive innovation within the foodtech and restaurant ecosystem, supporting solutions that are transforming the future of this sector.

The initiative has established itself as one of the most relevant in the field of food and beverage (F&B) innovation in Europe, and was recently recognized by the European Commission as a national reference in supporting the digital transition through the European Enterprise Promotion Awards.

In 2025, the program reaches its 7th edition, consolidating its position as an international benchmark and Europe’s leading foodtech innovation program.

Since its creation, it has supported over 135 startups from more than 30 countries. Today, 61% of the participating startups remain active, and together they have raised over €40 million in investment after joining the program.

The program counts on Delta Cafés as its main partner, Turismo de Portugal as institutional partner, Sogrape as corporate partner, as well as DIG-IN as data partner and AHRESP as supporting partner – all of whom amplify the program’s impact and create unique collaboration opportunities for participating startups.

At an international level, and as one of the novelties of this edition, the program will be developed in cooperation with leading European innovation ecosystems such as the EIT Community / EIT Food (supported by the European Union), the Polish accelerator foodtech.ac, and the spanish startup incubator Lanzadera.

Who is it for?

From Start-to-Table is designed to support national and international startups in the growth stage (minimum MVP phase) that already show market traction, strong scalability potential, an ambitious vision, and a motivated team ready to lead innovation in foodtech.

The solutions must align with the program’s goals and categories, bringing innovation and impact to the food and restaurant sector. 

What does the program offer? 

The 7th edition of From Start-to-Table offers participants access to:

• Support in designing and implementing pilot projects with program partners
• The opportunity to win €10,000 and gain potential access to top foodtech events
• Integration into a dynamic network of innovative startups
• Learning opportunities from leading industry experts in the F&B sector
• Exposure to a network of national and international investors
• Support to access multiple markets
• Connection with mentors, partners, and peers
• Exclusive access to market data tailored to their businesses
• Interaction with program partners, fostering valuable synergies

Key program dates

Applications close: 26 October 2025
Bootcamp: 17-18 November 2025
Acceleration period: 27 November 2025 – 29 January 2026
Closing ceremony: 5 February 2026