Startups Shaping the Future of Coffee and Cacao

Coffee and cacao are two of the world’s most beloved commodities, powering $250 billion in annual trade and supporting over 40 million livelihoods. But these everyday essentials are under threat. Climate change is shrinking growing zones. Deforestation is accelerating. And most of the smallholder farmers behind these crops continue to face extreme poverty, earning less than $1 a day.

A new generation of startups is reimagining the future of coffee and cacao—from regenerative farming and circular supply chains to beanless brews and cacao-free chocolate. These innovators are not just responding to crises—they’re building resilient, ethical, and climate-smart systems that can sustain both people and the planet for generations to come.

This infographic highlights groundbreaking startups transforming coffee and cacao across key innovation categories:

Sustainable Ecosystems: Startups driving regenerative agriculture, agroforestry, ethical sourcing, and climate resilience in producing regions around the world.
Digital Innovations: From AI-powered quality grading to blockchain traceability and cell-based production, these companies are using tech to modernize legacy systems and boost transparency.
Circular Solutions: Innovators turning byproducts like coffee grounds and cacao husks into everything from edible packaging to biofuels and functional food ingredients.
Alternative Products & Functional Ingredients: Startups pioneering cacao- and coffee-free alternatives, precision fermentation, and health-forward formulations that decouple indulgence from deforestation.

With consumer demand rising and environmental pressures mounting, these founders are laying the groundwork for a more ethical, climate-resilient, and future-proof supply chain. Explore the innovators shaping the future of chocolate and coffee!

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Coffee and Cacao Startups: The full list

Please note that there may be overlaps among these criteria, such as multiple segmentations intersecting.

This list includes various coffee or cacao focused companies spanning different areas of the industry. If your company isn't included and you have exposure to coffee or cacao startups, feel free to submit it here and we’ll make sure to include you.