Three themes that capture our 2024

A network of Bezos Centers of Excellence launched around the world, setting the stage for future investments in alternative protein research and development.

In recognition of our role as a field catalyst, the Bezos Earth Fund selected us as their strategic partner for scoping research institutions to house alternative protein innovation centers. Based on this work, in 2024, the Earth Fund invested $90 million to launch Bezos Centers of Sustainable Protein at North Carolina State University, Imperial College London, and the National University of Singapore. Philanthropic support for alternative proteins, like the Earth Fund’s investment in centers of excellence, can signal proof of concept for private investors and inspire government investment. Donor support for GFI was key to making this win possible. Bezos Earth Fund’s Director of Future of Food, Andy Jarvis, said:

“GFI was an integral part of the process from conceptualization to execution, leading the research center scoping, request for proposals, and proposal evaluation. […] We are proud to work alongside GFI in our shared mission to transform food and agriculture to support healthy lives without degrading the planet.”

GFI Brazil identified bottlenecks in the plant-based market.

The Lamp Project, led by GFI Brazil, gathered alternative protein insights through more than 40 interviews with industry leaders. By identifying and sharing data on bottlenecks in the plant-based market, including products’ price and texture, GFI Brazil is helping companies overcome obstacles and accelerate market growth.

We made the case for a shift toward alternative proteins in ways that reached new audiences and decision-makers.

• Written with BCG and Synthesis Capital, our report What the Alternative Protein Industry Can Learn from EV Companies highlights innovation strategies that alternative protein companies can adopt from the electric vehicle industry. 
• GFI Asia Pacific took to one of the most prestigious science journals in the world, Nature, to argue that “meat production is long overdue for an upgrade.” Co-authored by the CEO of GFIC, an independent partner that does mission-aligned work in mainland China, In Asia, alternative proteins are the new clean energy explores the development potential of the alternative protein industry in Asia.

Influential organizations and institutions recognized alternative proteins as essential to transforming our food system.

• The World Bank released a report called Recipe for a Livable Planet, spotlighting the climate mitigation potential of alternative proteins and echoing our global rallying cry that governments must invest in research and development. 
• The World Economic Forum, in partnership with GFI Israel and the Israel Innovation Authority, published a white paper, Creating a Vibrant Food Innovation Ecosystem, highlighting how government support is critical to driving alternative protein progress. 
• Following deep engagement with GFI experts, Nature Biotechnology published Slaughter-free meat hits the grocery shelf, an editorial that explores the benefits of cultivated meat and makes the case for increased government investment.