Avsnitt
-
What if we can have it all? According to Katlin Smith, Founder and CEO of Simple Mills, eating in a way that’s healthy for our bodies and the planet shouldn’t be about compromise. In this episode, Katlin takes us through her journey of building a good-for-you food brand that would not only compete in flavor with other health companies but with the status quo. Katlin was pretty green when she started Simple Mills, and, through savvy, sheer determination, and a bit of luck, she figured out how to bootstrap a food business, navigate product development, marketing, and fundraising, hire the right people, and scale the company to what it is today: The number one baking mix, natural cracker, and natural cookie brand. A few years ago, the company also tacked on a bold environmental mission, and they are currently working to support not only their agricultural supply chain in adopting more sustainable practices but the broader ecosystem. If you’re looking to learn the ins and outs of building a food brand, or just hear from a founder who has navigated it all and come out swinging, this episode is for you.
Key Topics:
Casting a Wide Investor Net: The sheer volume of people Katlin spoke with ended up securing the company their first angel investor. But Katlin also speaks to the importance of being selective about who you take money from and the terms of the investment. Prioritizing Product Taste: A key takeaway is the necessity of prioritizing taste in product development. Katlin emphasizes that regardless of health benefits, a product must taste exceptional to succeed. The Importance of Hiring Wisely: Establishing a team with diverse and complementary skills is crucial. Katlin's approach to hiring illustrates the benefit of surrounding yourself with individuals with the skills you are looking for and whose strengths balance your own, creating a robust foundation for sustained business growth.A Rising Tide Lifts All Boats: The company's dedication to regenerative agriculture showcases a forward-thinking strategy that not only supports environmental health but also enhances long-term supply chain resilience. This commitment illustrates the potential for businesses to drive significant ecological impact and serve as an example to help shift the agricultural sector towards greater sustainability.Maintaining a Long-Term Vision: Katlin's commitment throughout her journey to making healthful food mainstream without compromising taste or quality reflects the importance of a long-term vision.This content is for informational purposes only, should not be taken as legal, business, tax or investment advice, or be used to evaluate any investment or security, and is not directed at any investor or potential investor in any investment vehicle sponsored by S2G Investments, LLC or its affiliates (“S2G Ventures”). Investing involves risk, including the risk of loss. The opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views of S2G Ventures. Specific companies are mentioned herein solely for educational purposes and should not be construed as an endorsement of any particular company or investment. Please note that S2G Ventures may maintain investments in the companies mentioned herein.
For more important information, please see www.s2gventures.com/disclosures
-
If you’re looking for insights into developing a go-to-market strategy, this episode is for you. Chuck Templeton sits down with the team at Sentera, a company that uses remote data collection to empower growers and agribusinesses to make real-time decisions to help improve farm profitability. Sentera's CEO Brian Wenngatz and CTO Eric Taipale take us through their journey to launching Aerial WeedScout, which enables the rapid detection of weeds so farmers can reduce herbicide use and maximize equipment efficiency. To launch this product, the team had to understand how they could best use their expertise in aerial imagery and computer vision to improve farm outcomes. Chuck also talked with S2G’s Cristina Rohr about her perspective on the market opportunity for Sentera’s technology. From offering a clear and differentiated value proposition to designing an innovative business model to get the product to farmers at the right price point, there are so many aspects of this conversation that are relevant to entrepreneurs in the world of agtech and beyond.
Understanding Core Differentiators: Brian and Eric highlight the importance of understanding the company’s “unfair advantages” to ensure they continue to stand out from the competition and provide the best possible product to farmers. Offering a Clear Value Proposition: The team shares what they’ve learned about not only developing a product that addresses both economic and environmental challenges in modern farming but also about how to message those benefits to customers. Finding the Right Sales Channel: Sentera determined that working with ag retailers and trusted advisors would generate more traction than going directly to farmers. Strategic partnerships with leading seed, chemical, and equipment companies have been pivotal for Sentera's market penetration and scalability. Business Model Innovation: Sentera’s technology offers the opportunity for a no-upfront-cost approach, which addresses financial constraints and risk aversion among farmers, enabling easier adoption of advanced technologies.Taking a Systems-Based Approach: Understanding the role their technology can play not only on farms but in the broader stakeholder ecosystem has helped Sentera build partnerships and bring together stakeholders to improve opportunities for scale.
Key Topics:This content is for informational purposes only, should not be taken as legal, business, tax or investment advice, or be used to evaluate any investment or security, and is not directed at any investor or potential investor in any investment vehicle sponsored by S2G Investments, LLC or its affiliates (“S2G Ventures”). Investing involves risk, including the risk of loss. The opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views of S2G Ventures. Specific companies are mentioned herein solely for educational purposes and should not be construed as an endorsement of any particular company or investment. Please note that S2G Ventures may maintain investments in the companies mentioned herein.
For more important information, please see www.s2gventures.com/disclosures
-
Saknas det avsnitt?
-
The rapid growth of reshored manufacturing, AI data centers, industrial decarbonization technologies, and electric vehicles are driving unprecedented demand for electricity. Many of the companies with the greatest energy demands have also committed to net zero emissions targets which will require them to use renewable power sources. While the renewable energy sector has grown tremendously, developing the capacity to meet the energy demand increase will face numerous challenges. In this episode, we’re featuring a panel our S2G Summit in which Frank O’Sullivan, Managing Director of Energy at S2G spoke with Ernie Moniz, Former US Secretary of Energy and current CEO and President of the EFI Foundation, Grant van Rooyen, CEO of Tract, and Ben Pratt, President at Nova Clean Energy. They discuss the broader system needs to fully “close the loop” on clean energy spanning from generation, transmission, and interconnection, to PPA structuring, asset positioning, and beyond.
Key Topics:
Private Capital Dynamics and Clean Energy Transition: A significant gap exists between available capital and investable opportunities in the clean energy sector. Financing the "missing middle" remains a crucial challenge for translating new technologies into scaled clean energy solutions.Overcoming Grid Interconnection Hurdles: The process of grid interconnection for new energy projects poses challenges, with prolonged approval wait times hindering progress. Panelists discuss the need for robust expansion and optimization of physical grid infrastructure to efficiently meet the escalating demand for renewable energy sources.Strategic Data Center Development: Panelists make the case that we can’t just put data centers anywhere. Strategic location choices near skilled labor pools and existing infrastructure are essential for successful data center establishment due to their scale and complex demands. Navigating the Regulatory Landscape in Energy Markets: Ongoing discourse revolves around the efficacy of regulated versus competitive energy markets in supporting the energy transition journey. Panelists discuss the merits of each system.Fostering Long-Term Collaboration for Clean Energy: The panelists discuss that long-term planning spanning a decade or more is essential for utilities and developers to effectively manage the surging demand for clean energy sources. Collaborative efforts involving project stakeholders and utilities are key to building trust and aligning proposals with regulatory frameworks for sustainable energy advancements.
Resources:
Video: Frank O'Sullivan and Bala Nagarajan on the Missing Middle
Missing middle paper
Tract
Nova Clean Energy
EFI FoundationThis content is for informational purposes only, should not be taken as legal, business, tax or investment advice, or be used to evaluate any investment or security, and is not directed at any investor or potential investor in any investment vehicle sponsored by S2G Investments, LLC or its affiliates (“S2G Ventures”). Investing involves risk, including the risk of loss. The opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views of S2G Ventures. Specific companies are mentioned herein solely for educational purposes and should not be construed as an endorsement of any particular company or investment. Please note that S2G Ventures may maintain investments in the companies mentioned herein.
For more important information, please see www.s2gventures.com/disclosures
-
In this episode, S2G’s Managing Partner Sanjeev Krishnan and Jessica Murphy, VP of Community, delve into the key drivers of change within complex sectors like food, agriculture, oceans, and energy. They dissect the critical elements - innovation and business model innovation, community and storytelling, engaging with industry incumbents, and changing capital markets - essential for fostering sustainability and resilience in the global economy. Using conversations from this year’s S2G summit as a jumping-off point, Sanjeev and Jessica discuss the four-ingredient framework, the role each component plays, and the opportunities to bring them together to realize profound systems change.
Innovation and Business Model Innovation: Sanjeev stresses the need for innovation and business model innovation to combat volatility and derisk systems while challenging the assumption that these innovations can’t be deflationary. Engaging with Industry Incumbents: Collaboration with incumbents will be key to propelling innovations from emerging startups to widespread adoption of new technologies. Leveraging the resources, expertise, and credibility of industry giants can accelerate the pace of transformation and foster industry-wide change.Community and Storytelling: The power of storytelling in shaping consumer behaviors and policy landscapes cannot be underestimated. Sanjeev and Jessica share insights from the S2G Summit that underscore the impact of compelling storytelling on both economic values and cultural norms, offering a pathway to drive change through impactful narratives.Changing Capital Markets: Sanjeev and Jessica discuss the need to align capital markets with long-term sustainability objectives. By balancing shareholder value with stakeholder resilience, the focus shifts towards creating systems that promote stability, reduce volatility, and amplify positive environmental and social impacts, ensuring a viable future for all stakeholders involved.
Key Topics:This content is for informational purposes only, should not be taken as legal, business, tax or investment advice, or be used to evaluate any investment or security, and is not directed at any investor or potential investor in any investment vehicle sponsored by S2G Investments, LLC or its affiliates (“S2G Ventures”). Investing involves risk, including the risk of loss. The opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views of S2G Ventures. Specific companies are mentioned herein solely for educational purposes and should not be construed as an endorsement of any particular company or investment. Please note that S2G Ventures may maintain investments in the companies mentioned herein.
For more important information, please see www.s2gventures.com/disclosures
-
In this episode, we are sharing a panel on “Nutrition at the Forefront of Health” from the S2G summit. Matt Walker, Managing Director on S2G’s Food & Agriculture team, interviewed Susan Bukata, Professor and Chair of Orthopedic Surgery at the University of California San Diego, Bill Dietz, Director of Research and Policy at the Global Food Institute at George Washington University, and Howard Lossing, former CEO of Cambrooke Therapeutics, about the growing influence and importance of nutrition in the healthcare sector. The panelists discussed the need for more science and data-backed nutrition interventions while also emphasizing the key role that education across stakeholder groups will play in realizing widespread adoption. They draw from their remarkable and lengthy careers in the healthcare sector to provide both optimism and realism to the increasingly popular field of food and nutrition-based health solutions.
Key Topics:
Integrating Nutrition and Healthcare Strategies: Aligning food and healthcare systems offers economic prospects and improved health outcomes. Taking a Data-Driven Approach to Nutrition Interventions: Robust data validation is critical for the successful adoption of nutrition-focused health solutions. However, panelists discuss how not all nutrition-based interventions may require pharma-level studies.Balancing Personalized Nutrition and Population Health: Patients tend to see themselves as the medical anomoly but most people are “part of the herd” as Susan Bukata puts it, when it comes to medical issues. Our panelists discuss that while there is potential for personalized medicine to treat people as individuals, many of our greatest healthcare advancements have been in the realm of population health. Addressing Nutritional Education Gaps in Medical Training: Limited nutrition education in medical training hampers effective dietary recommendations by healthcare professionals. Overcoming this educational gap is crucial for integrating nutrition seamlessly into standard healthcare practices.Collaboration for More Effective Outcomes: Government bodies, healthcare professionals, and industry stakeholders must collaborate to enhance compliance and amplify the impact of nutrition interventions.Resources:
Global Food Institute
Cambrooke Therapeutics
This content is for informational purposes only, should not be taken as legal, business, tax or investment advice, or be used to evaluate any investment or security, and is not directed at any investor or potential investor in any investment vehicle sponsored by S2G Investments, LLC or its affiliates (“S2G Ventures”). Investing involves risk, including the risk of loss. The opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views of S2G Ventures. Specific companies are mentioned herein solely for educational purposes and should not be construed as an endorsement of any particular company or investment. Please note that S2G Ventures may maintain investments in the companies mentioned herein.
For more important information, please see www.s2gventures.com/disclosures
-
In this episode, we’re exploring the pivotal role of data to not only protect our ocean but to better leverage its immense potential to foster climate resilience and drive a sustainable marine economy. At the S2G Summit, Larsen Mettler, Oceans Managing Director at S2G, led a panel with Kimberly Mathisen, CEO at Hub Ocean, Justin Manley, Senior Advisor at OceanKind, and Zack Baize, Program Manager at NOAA’s Ocean-Based Climate Resilience Accelerator. The panelists discuss the opportunity to scale data collection technologies, develop new ownership frameworks, and integrate diverse data streams. As we continue to gather more ocean data than ever before, it will take great creativity and collaboration to figure out how to harness it effectively. This conversation offers valuable perspectives for anyone navigating the ocean intelligence and investment landscape.
Unlocking Ocean Data's Potential: With a vast portion of the ocean still unexplored, leveraging comprehensive ocean data is key to advancing climate predictions, optimizing marine resource management, and enhancing global trade efficiencies. Technological Innovations Reshaping Data Collection: Technological advancements like low-cost sensors, autonomous vehicles, and satellite imaging are revolutionizing ocean data collection. These innovations are not only reducing costs but also increasing the accessibility of real-time data crucial for informed decision-making in marine environments. Growing Demand for Different Types of Data: Increasing interest in technologies such as marine carbon dioxide removal, biodiversity monitoring, and blue biotechnology is driving the demand for different kinds of ocean data. Breaking Down Data Silos: From tax credits to data buys and awarding bids to projects that incorporate data sharing, the discussion explores the opportunities to incentivize and foster data sharing among private entitiesData Integration Challenges and Solutions: The conversation covers the complexities surrounding the integration of diverse data types, from physical samples to electronic measurements. Initiatives like Hub Ocean aim to standardize and aggregate varied data sources, enabling easier access and utilization for scientific and commercial applications.
Key Topics:Resources:
Hub Ocean
Ocean Kind
NOAA Ocean-Based Climate Resilience AcceleratorThis content is for informational purposes only, should not be taken as legal, business, tax or investment advice, or be used to evaluate any investment or security, and is not directed at any investor or potential investor in any investment vehicle sponsored by S2G Investments, LLC or its affiliates (“S2G Ventures”). Investing involves risk, including the risk of loss. The opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views of S2G Ventures. Specific companies are mentioned herein solely for educational purposes and should not be construed as an endorsement of any particular company or investment. Please note that S2G Ventures may maintain investments in the companies mentioned herein.
For more important information, please see www.s2gventures.com/disclosures
-
In this episode we are sharing a panel from the S2G summit moderated by Kate Danaher, Oceans Managing Director at S2G. Jason Giffen from the Port of San Diego, Ingrid Irigoyen from the Aspen Institute, and David Millar of Fugro discuss the current efforts underway to decarbonize the industry and what it will ultimately take to get us there. Solutions discussed range from green methanol to electrification and innovative business models. The panelists also share their perspectives on current and future decarbonization drivers, from regulations to corporate responsibility, market demand, and first-mover action. It’s a fascinating conversation about how collaborative endeavors and visionary solutions are working to decarbonize an extremely complex and behind-the-scenes industry.
The Importance of Maritime Decarbonization: Responsible for three percent of greenhouse gas emissions, the maritime industry has a major role to play in the global decarbonization effort. Regulatory Evolution and Market Response: The maritime industry faces dual pressures from evolving regulatory standards and market dynamics, propelling a shift towards decarbonization.Innovative Business Models Driving Transformation: Innovative business models like the Zero Emission Maritime Buyers Alliance are fostering market demand for zero-emission shipping which will enable the rest of the supply chain to transition confidently.Near and Longer-Term Innovation: While e-fuels are highly anticipated, they will take time to scale. Other green fuel choices, such as methanol, and other types of technologies, such as port electrification, can provide more immediate decarbonization solutions. Collaboration for Collective Impact: The intricate nature of maritime decarbonization necessitates a collaborative ecosystem involving diverse stakeholders—from ship owners to regulators and local communities. Effective community engagement is necessary to propel the adoption of technologies and encourage infrastructural shifts.
Key Topics:
Resources:Port of San Diego
Fugro
Zero Emission Maritime Buyers Alliance
This content is for informational purposes only, should not be taken as legal, business, tax or investment advice, or be used to evaluate any investment or security, and is not directed at any investor or potential investor in any investment vehicle sponsored by S2G Investments, LLC or its affiliates (“S2G Ventures”). Investing involves risk, including the risk of loss. The opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views of S2G Ventures. Specific companies are mentioned herein solely for educational purposes and should not be construed as an endorsement of any particular company or investment. Please note that S2G Ventures may maintain investments in the companies mentioned herein.
For more important information, please see www.s2gventures.com/disclosures
-
In this episode, Chuck Templeton sits down with Jason Wellcome and Mike Bruno, advisors at Play Bigger, to discuss the methodology behind category design. The discussion unpacks how companies can shift their thinking from making better products to forging entirely new market categories, drawing on illustrative examples like Qualtrics' evolution from survey tools to an experience management platform. Jason and Mike delve into the strategies that enable businesses to identify unique problems, achieve "Category King" status, and ultimately drive unprecedented growth and market leadership. This episode offers valuable perspectives for investors and entrepreneurs keen on leveraging category design to secure a competitive edge.
Key Topics:
Problem Identification: The Play Bigger team emphasizes the importance of pinpointing unique, high-impact problems that consumers often overlook. This critical step lays the foundation for creating a new market category, setting leaders apart from competitors focused merely on iterative improvements.Creating a Category Blueprint: Establishing a new category necessitates a detailed blueprint that ensures both customers and competitors grasp the full scope and transformative potential of the new category, fostering wider market adoption.The Advantages of Category Leadership: Leading a new market category offers substantial economic benefits, with "Category Kings" capturing up to 76% of the category's total value. Inventing a Taxonomy: Effective category design involves crafting a distinct language and taxonomy. This effort not only differentiates the new category but also educates the market. Iterative Validation and Organizational Alignment: The journey of category design is iterative, requiring ongoing validation and alignment within the organization. By engaging leadership and synchronizing efforts across all departments, companies can ensure cohesive execution and maximize their chances of achieving market success.Resources:
Play Bigger
This content is for informational purposes only, should not be taken as legal, business, tax or investment advice, or be used to evaluate any investment or security, and is not directed at any investor or potential investor in any investment vehicle sponsored by S2G Investments, LLC or its affiliates (“S2G Ventures”). Investing involves risk, including the risk of loss. The opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views of S2G Ventures. Specific companies are mentioned herein solely for educational purposes and should not be construed as an endorsement of any particular company or investment. Please note that S2G Ventures may maintain investments in the companies mentioned herein.
For more important information, please see www.s2gventures.com/disclosures
-
In this episode, Rishad Tobaccowala, former Chief Growth Officer at Publicis Groupe, and current author, speaker, advisor, and host of the What Next? podcast, offers an incisive look into the evolving nexus of technology and human capital shaping the future of work. Rishad discusses the critical importance of rethinking workplace design and integrating new technologies into workflows to drive growth. He also provides actionable strategies to leverage advancements in AI and enhance employee engagement to ensure companies remain competitive in the face of tomorrow’s challenges. This episode is a must-listen for leaders seeking to scale their companies effectively while navigating the dynamic shifts in work environments and trends.
Key Topics:
The Major Shifts in Work Motivators: Rishad explains how we went from looking for money, fame, and power out of our jobs, to desiring purpose, values, and connections and then eventually freedom, story, and growth. Trends Shaping the Future of Work: Rishad explores the trends that leaders must keep top of mind to ensure their companies are prepared for a rapidly evolving future. These include changing demographics, power shifts, mind shifts, and technological shifts.Cultivating a Culture of Change and Innovation: According to Rishad, the strategic importance of fostering an environment conducive to change and innovation cannot be overstated. For investors and entrepreneurs, embedding this type of culture within their startups or established enterprises is key to navigating future uncertainties. Leveraging AI as a Catalyst for Comprehensive Engagement: AI's role transcends operational efficiencies, emerging as a crucial catalyst for enriching employee engagement. Rishad advocates for greater integration of AI to foster an environment of heightened productivity and employee satisfaction.Adaptive Leadership for Resilient Workplaces: Throughout the conversation, Rishad encourages leaders to remain agile and forward-looking amidst rapid changes in work environments. By thinking critically about workplace design, employee engagement, and technological integration, leaders can forge paths that not only adapt to but anticipate future trends.
Resources:What Next with Rishad Tobaccowala
Restoring the Soul of Business: Staying Human in the Age of Data
Rishad’s substack
This content is for informational purposes only, should not be taken as legal, business, tax or investment advice, or be used to evaluate any investment or security, and is not directed at any investor or potential investor in any investment vehicle sponsored by S2G Investments, LLC or its affiliates (“S2G Ventures”). Investing involves risk, including the risk of loss. The opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views of S2G Ventures. Specific companies are mentioned herein solely for educational purposes and should not be construed as an endorsement of any particular company or investment. Please note that S2G Ventures may maintain investments in the companies mentioned herein.
For more important information, please see www.s2gventures.com/disclosures
-
In this episode, Chuck Templeton is joined by Nikhil Arora and Alejandro Velez, co-founders of Back to the Roots, a company that's redefining what it means to be a home gardener. Starting from an unconventional college experiment using coffee grounds to grow mushrooms, their venture has grown into the only end-to-end organic gardening brand, helping to ignite a new generation of sustainability-minded gardeners who are looking for a more rooted relationship with their food. The duo discusses the significance of deep customer understanding, the art of pivoting in response to challenges, and the non-negotiable commitment to sustainability and transparency that has defined their brand. This discussion offers a realistic look at building a mission-driven business, the challenges encountered, and the perseverance required to stay true to one's values in the competitive retail landscape.
Key Topics:
Sustainable Innovation as a Market Differentiator: Back to the Roots exemplifies how sustainability can be a viable market strategy that resonates deeply with consumers. Their commitment to peat-free soil and packaging from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic not only sets new industry standards but also appeals to a new generation of gardeners, showcasing the potential for similar innovation-driven growth across various sectors.Compounding Relationships Fuel Growth: The episode highlights how the strategic nurturing of relationships—with suppliers, retailers, and team members—can serve as a catalyst for rapid growth and market penetration.The Power of Simplified Consumer Offerings: By focusing on simplicity in their product line, Back to the Roots has successfully created an end-to-end gardening solution that removes barriers to entry for new gardeners. This lesson in product development stresses the value of consumer-centric design and simplification in fostering user engagement and loyalty.Navigating Entrepreneurial Challenges with a Strong Foundational Partnership: The enduring co-founder relationship at the heart of Back to the Roots provides a blueprint for entrepreneurial resilience. A shared vision and complementary skill sets are critical when facing challenges, making strategic pivots, and achieving sustained profitability.Aligning Business Goals with Broader Missions: Staying true to their North Star has enabled Back to the Roots to weather challenges and continuously adapt to get to where they are today. A clear and compelling mission can guide decision-making, inspire innovation, and attract like-minded customers and partners.Resources:
Where to find Back to the Roots products and seed packets
Back to the Roots on How I Built This with Guy Roz
This content is for informational purposes only, should not be taken as legal, business, tax or investment advice, or be used to evaluate any investment or security, and is not directed at any investor or potential investor in any investment vehicle sponsored by S2G Investments, LLC or its affiliates (“S2G Ventures”). Investing involves risk, including the risk of loss. The opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views of S2G Ventures. Specific companies are mentioned herein solely for educational purposes and should not be construed as an endorsement of any particular company or investment. Please note that S2G Ventures may maintain investments in the companies mentioned herein.
For more important information, please see www.s2gventures.com/disclosures
-
In this episode, Sanjeev Krishnan, co-founder and managing partner of S2G Ventures, takes us through his career path from investing in telecom in emerging markets to building out a life sciences investment group at the IFC, the early days of energy environmental investing, his decision to hone in on food and agriculture, and finally to his journey with S2G. Sanjeev shares learnings critical for anyone investing or innovating in tough tech sectors, including his framework for using capital markets to transform industries, his approach to systems thinking, and his perspectives on the power of specialization and the importance of bringing value beyond capital. From his wealth of experiences to the Sanjeevisms that have permeated our vernacular, Sanjeev has been a spirited and thoughtful leader since day one at S2G, and we are excited to share this conversation with you.
Key Topics:
Specialization: Sanjeev underscores his belief in the importance of industry specialization. By deeply understanding the nuances of a specific sector, he believes investors and entrepreneurs can uncover unique opportunities for innovation and growth. Innovative Business Models: Sanjeev shares examples from his past that illustrate how rethinking traditional ways of doing business can lead to profitable ventures that also contribute positively to people's lives and the planet. Capital Markets: Sanjeev advocates for a capital market system tailored to the unique financial needs of sectors undergoing significant changes. Consumer Demand: The rising influence of Millennials and Gen Z consumers, who prioritize sustainability and social impact, creates a growing demand for aligned products and services. Sanjeev discusses his perspective that aligning company values with those of conscious consumers can drive substantial market growth.Systems Thinking: Sanjeev discusses how the interconnectedness of various sectors presents unique challenges and opportunities for innovation. Systems thinking, which focuses on the 'seams' between sectors, encourages a holistic view of industries, where understanding the broader ecosystem and leveraging partnerships can lead to groundbreaking solutions.This content is for informational purposes only, should not be taken as legal, business, tax or investment advice, or be used to evaluate any investment or security, and is not directed at any investor or potential investor in any investment vehicle sponsored by S2G Investments, LLC or its affiliates (“S2G Ventures”). Investing involves risk, including the risk of loss. The opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views of S2G Ventures. Specific companies are mentioned herein solely for educational purposes and should not be construed as an endorsement of any particular company or investment. Please note that S2G Ventures may maintain investments in the companies mentioned herein.
For more important information, please see www.s2gventures.com/disclosures
-
In this episode, we dive into the entrepreneur and investor journey that has led to the first EPA-approved RNA crop protection product and created a paradigm shift for the industry. Chuck Templeton chats with both GreenLight Biosciences CEO Andrey Zarur and S2G Managing Director Matt Walker, who has been working with Andrey and the GreenLight team for many years, about the company’s journey from defining a pressing need to designing a solution and bringing their first product in the market. There are so many hurdles to establishing a new product category, from developing the technology to working through long regulatory processes and then finally getting customers to adopt a novel product. This conversation is a great listen for anyone working to create or invest in category-defining technologies.
Identifying a Genuine Problem: Entrepreneurs often fall into the trap of creating solutions in search of problems. GreenLight’s trajectory underscores the importance of starting with a specific, pressing issue and designing targeted solutions. Understanding Your Customer Base: Success in any industry hinges on an entrepreneur's ability to comprehend the needs, challenges, and preferences of their customers. GreenLight’s commitment to listening and adapting to feedback from farmers was pivotal in refining its products for successful adoption. Navigating Regulatory Landscapes: Investors and entrepreneurs alike must account for the time and uncertainty inherent in obtaining regulatory approvals. Andrey shares how engaging with regulatory bodies ended up being an opportunity for collaboration and learning rather than a mere obstacle.Evolving With a Purpose-Driven Team: As companies transition through various development stages, the importance of assembling a capable, diverse team aligned with the company’s mission cannot be overstated. Entrepreneurs must be prepared to reassess roles, delegate effectively, and ensure that every team member is passionate about the collective goals. Building Out Growth Opportunities: GreenLight is dedicated to tackling larger agricultural problems and ensuring their breakthrough technologies are accessible to small landowners worldwide.
Key Takeaways:Resources:
FAO agricultural pests stats
A short history of pest management
Potato farming input costs
Fungal pathogen crop damage
Varroa mite statsThis content is for informational purposes only, should not be taken as legal, business, tax or investment advice, or be used to evaluate any investment or security, and is not directed at any investor or potential investor in any investment vehicle sponsored by S2G Investments, LLC or its affiliates (“S2G Ventures”). Investing involves risk, including the risk of loss. The opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views of S2G Ventures. Specific companies are mentioned herein solely for educational purposes and should not be construed as an endorsement of any particular company or investment. Please note that S2G Ventures may maintain investments in the companies mentioned herein.
For more important information, please see www.s2gventures.com/disclosures
-
Not many people produce category-defining companies twice. But then again, not many people are John Foraker. The comforting taste of Annie’s mac and cheese or their cheddar bunnies masks their revolutionary origins when organic products were relegated to the back corners of grocery stores. As the former longtime leader of Annies, John is partially to thank for bringing natural foods to the fore. Today, as the CEO of Once Upon a Farm, he is changing how customers buy baby and kid foods while meeting the growing demand for nutrient-filled, responsibly sourced, delicious products. This episode is as full of insights into starting a mission-driven CPG company as a Once Upon a Farm Smart Blend is with organic fruits and veggies.
The Power of Brand Positioning: Under John’s leadership, both Annie’s and Once Upon a Farm have successfully positioned their brands in the mainstream market, proving that natural and healthy food brands can thrive among conventional competitors. Understanding the Consumer: With both companies, John was able to recognize the momentum moving toward more natural nutritious foods. A critical pivot moment for Once Upon a Farm occurred when they did more digging into their core customer. Building a Strong Brand Identity: John's strategy emphasizes the importance of a strong mission-driven brand identity that resonates with consumers' values and justifies different price points or purchasing behaviors. Sustainable scaling: John shares his thinking on balancing growth in product line and distribution with the need to hone your core offerings.Working with Celebrity Cofounders: Jennifer Garner is one of the co-founders of Once Upon a Farm and John speaks about how she has been foundational to the company’s ethos and success. Leading with transparency and humility: John explains why he sends out an email every week recapping the company’s successes and challenges and how he ensures he is not the smartest person in the room.
Key Takeaways:Resources:
John's LinkedInRamping Your Brand
Consumer research on unplanned purchases
This content is for informational purposes only, should not be taken as legal, business, tax or investment advice, or be used to evaluate any investment or security, and is not directed at any investor or potential investor in any investment vehicle sponsored by S2G Investments, LLC or its affiliates (“S2G Ventures”). Investing involves risk, including the risk of loss. The opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views of S2G Ventures. Specific companies are mentioned herein solely for educational purposes and should not be construed as an endorsement of any particular company or investment. Please note that S2G Ventures may maintain investments in the companies mentioned herein.
For more important information, please see www.s2gventures.com/disclosures
-
To celebrate International Women's Day we're shining the spotlight on our special ops team. For the past two years, our all-female Special Ops team has been deploying flexible non-dilutive financing to companies trying to reach that next stage of scale. S2G's Andrea Woodside and Marisa Sweeney break down what a special opportunity is, the role this type of funding plays in today's funding environment, and who should reach out to them (any asset-oriented climate company) and when (as soon as possible). If you are seeking funding for an infrastructure-oriented company this episode is for you!
Key Takeaways:
The state of climate funding today: Billions of dollars have gone into climate tech, much of it to clean energy technologies, enabling them to transition from early-stage venture to later-stage capital. There is currently a funding gap for capital-intensive climate companies that are at a point where VC is too expensive, but banks or other institutional investors may not have enough creativity or flexibility to structure solutions.The mission of Special Ops: The team is working to deploy non-dilutive capital to scale developers and other asset-oriented businesses efficiently. What the team is looking for: credit and infrastructure-oriented investment opportunities. The team is focused on downside protection, so opportunities with cash flows, collateral, and contracts that offer confidence around cashflow visibility are a good fit.How this funding pairs with venture and growth equity funding: It’s not a replacement, but it can help reduce the amount of corporate equity a company needs.The team’s perspective on FOAKS: While they are not the focus of Special Ops, Marisa, and Andrea have some insights for companies looking to fund FOAK projects.Who should reach out: If you think this type of funding might be applicable, Marisa and Andrea are happy to chat!Resources:
Andrea’s BioMarisa’s BioWomen in Climate Investing & FinanceFinancing Pathways for Climate Tech: Looking Beyond Corporate EquityFinancing Pathways for Climate Tech: The Role of Alternative FinancingSpring Lane Developer UOver $150 billion in climate techThis content is for informational purposes only, should not be taken as legal, business, tax or investment advice, or be used to evaluate any investment or security, and is not directed at any investor or potential investor in any investment vehicle sponsored by S2G Investments, LLC or its affiliates (“S2G Ventures”). Investing involves risk, including the risk of loss. The opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views of S2G Ventures. Specific companies are mentioned herein solely for educational purposes and should not be construed as an endorsement of any particular company or investment. Please note that S2G Ventures may maintain investments in the companies mentioned herein.
For more important information, please see www.s2gventures.com/disclosures
-
Last year, we put out a report entitled, "trends shaping the future of food in 2023." A year later, we wanted to check in with some of our team members who weighed in on the report to get their take on how these trends are evolving into 2024. In the last episode, we dove into our agtech trends, and in this episode, we'll look at some of the supply chain and foodtech trends. We talk to Dan Ripma about food as health, Kate Danaher about supply chain resilience, and Larsen Mettler about cultivated protein.
Food as Health: A changing consumer mindset and scientific advances are fueling the food as health space. We are seeing greater convergence between the private and policy sectors while larger players are increasingly interested in using food to improve outcomes for government health insurance programs. Some exciting areas include perioperative nutrition and the pairing of physical products with digital platforms.Supply Chains: Covid-era supply chain disruptions have led to a spike in technologies and innovations around port optimization, inventory management and tracking, and supply chain transparency. In the maritime industry, where decarbonization directly hits the bottom line, ocean intelligence technologies that can help companies make better business, climate, and regulatory decisions are seeing greater adoption. . Cellular Protein: While the sector has been impacted by the difficult fundraising environment of the past year, we have also seen specialized companies within the supply chain having success with smaller, longer-term CapEx plays. There is increasing scrutiny around costs and go-to-market strategies, but technologies such as AI and digital twins can help companies scale more effectively. For companies looking to fundraise, being able to communicate KPIs and key milestones is more important than ever.
Key Takeaways:Resources:
Dan's bioKate's bioLarsen's bioReflections on 2023 Agtech TrendsReflections on 2023 Food and Agriculture Supply Chain TrendsReflections on 2023 Food Tech TrendsThis content is for informational purposes only, should not be taken as legal, business, tax or investment advice, or be used to evaluate any investment or security, and is not directed at any investor or potential investor in any investment vehicle sponsored by S2G Investments, LLC or its affiliates (“S2G Ventures”). Investing involves risk, including the risk of loss. The opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views of S2G Ventures. Specific companies are mentioned herein solely for educational purposes and should not be construed as an endorsement of any particular company or investment. Please note that S2G Ventures may maintain investments in the companies mentioned herein.
For more important information, please see www.s2gventures.com/disclosures
-
In this episode, Chuck Templeton is joined by fellow Chicago entrepreneurs and old friends Chris Gladwin and Mike Evans for a captivating conversation about scaling their respective companies for exit. Chris founded and sold CleverSafe and is currently the Founder and CEO of Ocient, a data analytics platform for the world's biggest data sets. Mike is the Founder of Grubhub and now the Founder of Fixer, a home maintenance membership company. Chris and Mike compare their customer acquisition experiences, discuss their hiring approaches, consider their mutual passion for endurance sports, and dig into their core business philosophies. It’s a conversation any entrepreneur will take valuable insights from.
Customer acquisition for enterprise companies and small businesses: Mike shares how he thought about building a brand and providing customers with value early on. Chris speaks to the importance of understanding the buyer’s motivations.Their “just start” and “stay in business” mentalities: According to Mike, the only way to know if customers will buy your product is to start selling it. According to Chris, the number one reason businesses fail is because they don’t last long enough. What endurance sports can offer entrepreneurs: Read: a learning mindset and a lot of pain.Hiring for scale: Chris and Mike both share how they approached hiring and maintaining talent through different stages of growth.Building companies for exit: Chris and Mike discuss their philosophies on designing a company for exit, from creating a growth template to maximizing the probability of an exit.
Key Takeaways:
LinkedIn, X (formerly Twitter)
Ocient Socials:Ocient Resources
Dun & Bradstreet Customer Case StudyBeachfront Customer Case StudyMike Evans Socials:
LinkedIn, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter)Mike Evans Resources
Hangry: A Startup JourneyThis content is for informational purposes only, should not be taken as legal, business, tax or investment advice, or be used to evaluate any investment or security, and is not directed at any investor or potential investor in any investment vehicle sponsored by S2G Investments, LLC or its affiliates (“S2G Ventures”). Investing involves risk, including the risk of loss. The opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views of S2G Ventures. Specific companies are mentioned herein solely for educational purposes and should not be construed as an endorsement of any particular company or investment. Please note that S2G Ventures may maintain investments in the companies mentioned herein.
For more important information, please see www.s2gventures.com/disclosures
-
Last year, we published a report entitled, "Trends Shaping the Future of Food in 2023." It turns out 2023 was quite the year with many market, geopolitical, and policy twists and turns. In this episode, we check in with S2G team members who contributed to the report to get their take on how these trends evolved in 2023 and into 2024. We interview Arthur Chow about robotics, Cristina Rohr about digital agtech, and Matt Walker about alternative crop inputs.
Key Takeaways:
Agricultural Robotics: Agriculture robotics companies are making substantial strides in delivering on promises and expanding their offerings. The shift towards platform solutions, as well as partnerships that enable robotics-as-a-service models, are reducing some of the barriers to adoption. Integrated Digital Ag Tech Solutions: The integration of digital agriculture solutions is enabling companies to quantify the cross-value chain benefits of climate-smart agriculture. Strategic partnerships and robust data infrastructure are pivotal in fostering adoption and optimizing environmental and economic outcomes.Rising Demand for Alternative Input Solutions: The demand for alternative input solutions, such as biologicals, is on the rise, driven by market shifts away from traditional chemicals and consumer preferences for environmentally friendly options. Companies are focused on substantiating the efficacy of these solutions while integrating them seamlessly into existing farming systems.Resources:
Arthur's Bio
Cristina's Bio
Matt's BioReflections on 2023 Agtech Trends
Reflections on 2023 Food and Agriculture Supply Chain Trends
Reflections on 2023 Food Tech TrendsThis content is for informational purposes only, should not be taken as legal, business, tax or investment advice, or be used to evaluate any investment or security, and is not directed at any investor or potential investor in any investment vehicle sponsored by S2G Investments, LLC or its affiliates (“S2G Ventures”). Investing involves risk, including the risk of loss. The opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views of S2G Ventures. Specific companies are mentioned herein solely for educational purposes and should not be construed as an endorsement of any particular company or investment. Please note that S2G Ventures may maintain investments in the companies mentioned herein.
For more important information, please see www.s2gventures.com/disclosures
-
We’re kicking off the revamped S2G podcast series with a deep dive into the art of scaling with Chuck Templeton, S2G senior managing director and entrepreneur known for founding OpenTable and guiding startups like Grubhub and Braintree. In this episode, Chuck imparts crucial wisdom on overcoming early adoption hurdles, refining sales processes, and remaining steadfastly customer-centric for scalable growth. He shares his 'just start' philosophy to innovate solutions and build antifragile structures within businesses. His insights will help entrepreneurs better understand the interconnected journeys of achieving success through positive impact and cultivating long-lasting, scalable enterprises even in the face of unexpected market fluctuations.
Key Takeaways:
Building Customer-Centric Infrastructure: Key to OpenTable's success was its relentless focus on understanding and addressing customer needs. Initiating Two-Sided Networks: Chuck shares how he thought about seeding two-sided networks at OpenTable, which was one of the first companies to do so. The Importance of Customer Segmentation: Not all customers are the same. Chuck talks about defining different customer groups and their motivations for adoption. Polishing the Friction Off the Sales Process: The on-the-ground experience and process iterations it took to streamline the sales process and make signing up for OpenTable a no-brainer. Designing for Scale: How should companies think about accelerating growth, increasing returns, and hiring for scale?Maniacal Focus: The importance of having a clear vision and prioritizing survival.Resources:
Chuck's Bio
The Black Swan by Nassim Nicholas TalebThis content is for informational purposes only, should not be taken as legal, business, tax or investment advice, or be used to evaluate any investment or security, and is not directed at any investor or potential investor in any investment vehicle sponsored by S2G Investments, LLC or its affiliates (“S2G Ventures”). Investing involves risk, including the risk of loss. The opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views of S2G Ventures. Specific companies are mentioned herein solely for educational purposes and should not be construed as an endorsement of any particular company or investment. Please note that S2G Ventures may maintain investments in the companies mentioned herein.
For more important information, please see www.s2gventures.com/disclosures
-
On this podcast, we’re talking to business leaders, investors, policymakers, and thought leaders who have a transformative vision for the future. We’ll explore how their experiences and perspectives offer lessons into scaling the food, agriculture, oceans, and energy transitions.
This content is for informational purposes only, should not be taken as legal, business, tax or investment advice, or be used to evaluate any investment or security, and is not directed at any investor or potential investor in any investment vehicle sponsored by S2G Investments, LLC or its affiliates (“S2G Ventures”). Investing involves risk, including the risk of loss. The opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views of S2G Ventures. Specific companies are mentioned herein solely for educational purposes and should not be construed as an endorsement of any particular company or investment. Please note that S2G Ventures may maintain investments in the companies mentioned herein.
For more important information, please see www.s2gventures.com/disclosures
