Nestlé and UNESCO support next generation of food innovators

Nestlé and UNESCO are joining forces to mobilise young people across the globe in support of sustainable food production. With their new initiative, Youth Impact: Because You Matter, the organisations aim to train future leaders while making a direct contribution to the global food system.

From Latin America to a global roll-out

The programme builds on a successful pilot launched in Latin America. There, twenty young leaders worked on innovative solutions that positively impacted more than 130,000 people. One standout project, Earth-IoT, demonstrated the value of technology in agriculture. In rural areas of Mexico, farmers saw their incomes rise by 50%, while fertiliser use dropped by 40% and water and energy consumption fell by 30%.

Commercial ideas for sustainable food systems

The global roll-out supports young people aged 18 to 30 in developing commercial ideas that contribute to resilient and sustainable food production, processing, transport and consumption. More than one hundred teams will gain access to training, mentorship and financial support. Part of the training is provided through Nestlé’s Youth Entrepreneurship Platform (YEP), which serves as the core of the six-month programme.

Mismatch in the labour market

The initiative addresses the growing mismatch in the labour market, particularly within the agriculture and food sectors. Many young people lack the skills employers are looking for, while the need for future-proof knowledge in the sector continues to grow. Nestlé and UNESCO aim to bridge that gap while boosting local economies. CEO Laurent Freixe explains: “A well-trained workforce and a more stable supply of raw materials are crucial to Nestlé’s long-term success.”

Nestle.nl