Gaingels

Gaingels is a venture investment syndicate founded in 2014 and based in Burlington, Vermont, dedicated to supporting the LGBT+ community and its allies. The organization invests in companies led by LGBT+ founders and executives at all stages of development, as well as in established firms committed to enhancing their diversity and inclusivity. With a global portfolio comprising over 130 companies and $70 million in investment capital deployed, Gaingels plays a vital role in fostering an inclusive business environment. Additionally, the Gaingels network actively assists its portfolio companies in identifying and recruiting diverse talent for their leadership teams, while cultivating a vibrant community of industry leaders, investors, and entrepreneurs committed to driving positive social change through business initiatives.

Marc Baum

Investor

Jesse Curran

Principal

Rachael Foo

Investor

Paul Grossinger

Co-Founder and General Partner

Todd Havill

Research Operations and Principal, Investment

Surya Jayaweera

Angel Investor

Jennifer Jeronimo

CEO and General Partner

Jake Prigoff

General Partner

Peter Steinberg

General Partner

Alexandra Tanner

Investor

Lorenzo Thione

General Partner

Past deals in Food

MealMe

Series A in 2024
MealMe is a food delivery platform that leverages artificial intelligence to streamline the ordering process from a vast network of restaurants, grocery stores, and retail outlets across the US and Canada. With its Universal Point of Sale API, MealMe provides access to real-time data on over 700 million products from more than one million merchants, offering valuable insights into menus and inventory for competitive pricing intelligence. The platform enables users to compare delivery times and costs from various providers while also allowing for bookings and reservations. MealMe's innovative technology facilitates the integration of product ordering directly into websites or applications, granting businesses the ability to manage their own checkout processes effectively. By focusing on user preferences and enhancing the food discovery experience, MealMe aims to connect consumers with a diverse range of dining and grocery options.

Permanent

Seed Round in 2024
Permanent is an IT company that operates a digital platform designed to facilitate direct sourcing of wholesale food products from vendors. By creating a collaborative agricultural marketplace, the company enables farmers to sell organic products directly to consumers, while also allowing them to list their field inventory. This innovative approach aims to enhance the food economy by streamlining the connection between producers and buyers, fostering a more efficient and transparent marketplace for agricultural goods.

ByHeart

Venture Round in 2024
ByHeart, Inc. is a New York-based company specializing in the development of infant and baby nutritional food products. Founded in 2016, ByHeart focuses on creating formulas and foods that support various aspects of babies' health, including immune, microbiome, cognitive, and digestive health. The company emphasizes the use of hand-picked ingredients and small-batch blending to ensure high-quality, nutritious options for young children. ByHeart aims to translate advanced nutrition science and breastmilk research into innovative products that provide parents with peace of mind while proactively fostering a strong foundation for their babies’ future health. The company operates facilities in Pennsylvania, reinforcing its commitment to quality and safety in infant nutrition.

Yumi

Venture Round in 2024
Yumi is a company that specializes in providing science-based meal delivery services for infants and young children. It focuses on producing fresh, nutrient-dense, and low-sugar baby food designed to meet the dietary needs of various age groups. Yumi aims to help parents understand the nutritional value of what they are feeding their children, particularly during the crucial early years of development. By offering a convenient and health-oriented solution, Yumi supports parents in ensuring their children receive optimal nutrition for brain development and overall well-being.

BetterBrand

Venture Round in 2024
BetterBrand is a food technology company focused on innovating within the refined carbohydrate sector. It aims to address the global health crisis associated with refined carbs, which significantly contributes to obesity and related health costs. BetterBrand's flagship product, The Better Bagel, reimagines traditional bagels by transforming them into a healthier option that is the net carb equivalent of two slices of banana while providing over 25 grams of plant-based protein. This product contains no added sugars and features a clean label with non-GMO verified ingredients. BetterBrand aspires to empower consumers by breaking down dietary limitations and promoting a healthier lifestyle, ultimately contributing to enhanced global productivity and well-being.

BetterBrand

Series A in 2023
BetterBrand is a food technology company focused on innovating within the refined carbohydrate sector. It aims to address the global health crisis associated with refined carbs, which significantly contributes to obesity and related health costs. BetterBrand's flagship product, The Better Bagel, reimagines traditional bagels by transforming them into a healthier option that is the net carb equivalent of two slices of banana while providing over 25 grams of plant-based protein. This product contains no added sugars and features a clean label with non-GMO verified ingredients. BetterBrand aspires to empower consumers by breaking down dietary limitations and promoting a healthier lifestyle, ultimately contributing to enhanced global productivity and well-being.

VitaBowl

Seed Round in 2023
VitaBowl is an on-demand delivery brand specializing in nutritious, plant-based food offerings. The company focuses on delivering locally sourced vegetarian food bowls, which incorporate innovative probiotic ingredients like kombucha dressing. VitaBowl operates through smart cloud kitchens, allowing for efficient delivery and catering services to both businesses and individual clients. Its menu features a variety of superfood bowls and fresh juices, designed to be free from antibiotics, gluten, and preservatives. Through a subscription model, VitaBowl enables consumers to conveniently access inspired, health-focused dishes, such as the Indian anti-inflammatory and Korean macrobiotic bowls, promoting a healthy lifestyle.

Eclipse Foods

Series B in 2022
Eclipse Foods is a producer of plant-based dairy products that closely mimic the taste, texture, and functionality of traditional animal dairy products, such as ice cream, cream cheese, and sour cream. Founded in 2019 and headquartered in Walnut, California, the company utilizes innovative plant-processing technology to create dairy alternatives that address health, environmental, and ethical concerns associated with conventional dairy. Eclipse Foods aims to contribute to a more sustainable and humane food system by offering delicious plant-based options that do not require consumers to sacrifice taste or quality.

Hyfé

Pre Seed Round in 2022
Hyfé is a feedstock processing company focused on transforming food waste into valuable chemicals and materials, thereby promoting sustainability in various industries. By utilizing fungal fermentation, Hyfé upcycles waste generated during food manufacturing, enabling the production of cost-competitive essential goods. This innovative approach not only maximizes profits for food manufacturers but also contributes to reducing the carbon footprint of the food industry. Through its commitment to creating sustainable chemicals, materials, fuels, and foods, Hyfé aims to unlock the full value of every crop while providing alternatives to petroleum-based products.

Crafty

Series A in 2022
Crafty, LLC is a Chicago-based company that specializes in providing snacks, beverages, and event programs tailored for workplaces. The company offers a diverse range of products, including beer, wine, spirits, coffee, tea, perishables, and pantry supplies. Crafty focuses on enhancing workplace experiences through its services, which include managing kitchen and pantry provisions, organizing events and happy hours, catering, and setting up in-office cafes. By partnering with global brands, Crafty aims to support in-office, remote, and hybrid teams, serving over 260 offices and catering to approximately 300,000 employees each month.

Nowadays

Seed Round in 2022
Nowadays is a producer of plant-based meat that aims to create affordable and scalable manufacturing solutions for whole cuts of plant-based products. The company specializes in developing healthier alternatives to traditional junk food, utilizing animal-free ingredients to cater to consumers seeking nutritious and sustainable options. By prioritizing health and sustainability, Nowadays strives to provide innovative meat alternatives that meet the growing demand for plant-based diets.

MycoTechnology

Series E in 2022
MycoTechnology is a food technology company based in Aurora, Colorado, that specializes in utilizing fungi-based food-processing platforms to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of agricultural products. Incorporated in 2013, the company addresses challenges in the food, beverage, and flavor industries through innovative solutions. One of its key products, ClearTaste, is an all-natural, GMO-free, organic bitter blocker that is both Kosher and Halal certified, designed to improve the flavor profile of various agricultural offerings. Additionally, MycoTechnology engages in the fermentation of agricultural products using gourmet fungi, producing items such as myceliated chocolate and enhanced coffee beans. The company also develops and licenses technology aimed at naturally improving the flavor characteristics of robusta and arabica coffee, thereby enabling food producers to incorporate healthier ingredients and strengthen brand association.

Finless Foods

Series B in 2022
Finless Foods Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Emeryville, California, that specializes in producing seafood products for human consumption using cellular-agriculture technologies. Founded in 2017, the company focuses on cultivating marine-animal cells to create sustainable fish and seafood alternatives, including bluefin tuna. Finless Foods aims to provide a variety of food options that cater to diverse tastes and dietary preferences while promoting responsible production practices. By offering accessible plant-based and cell-cultured seafood alternatives, the company seeks to contribute to better ocean health and foster a more sustainable future for food consumption.

Science On Call

Pre Seed Round in 2022
Science On Call is a subscription-based tech support platform for restaurants. Help with POS, internet, Wi-Fi, online ordering & more—just one call or text away, even on nights & weekends! A Techstars Farm to Fork Accelerator portfolio company (2021), Food Foundry (2020)

Drink Barcode

Seed Round in 2022
Drink Barcode is a plant-based and adaptogen-powered beverage that works with the body to keep the entire self at full potential. The company was founded in 2021 and is headquartered in Burlington, Vermont.

Bokksu

Series A in 2022
Bokksu Inc. is a subscription-based service that offers an assortment of Japanese snacks, candies, and tea pairings delivered monthly. Founded in 2015 and based in Carlstadt, New Jersey, the company partners directly with local snack makers across Japan to provide a unique cultural experience through gourmet snacks and authentic storytelling. Bokksu delivers a variety of products, including candies, cookies, and baked goods, to customers in multiple countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, Singapore, and India. By connecting customers with traditional Japanese snacks, Bokksu not only promotes Japanese culture but also supports local communities and artisans.

Hooray Foods

Seed Round in 2021
Hooray Foods, Inc. is a San Francisco-based company founded in 2019 that specializes in producing plant-based meat products, specifically designed to mimic the taste and cooking experience of traditional bacon. Utilizing a proprietary fat encapsulation technique, Hooray Foods creates products that sizzle, smell, and taste like real bacon while being gluten-free, soy-free, nitrite-free, and hormone-free. The company aims to provide consumers with a healthy, affordable, and flavorful alternative to bacon, catering to those looking to reduce meat consumption without sacrificing taste. Hooray Foods sells its products through various partners, markets, and cafes, making plant-based options accessible to a wider audience.

Sundial Foods

Seed Round in 2021
Sundial Foods is a Berkeley, California-based company founded in 2019 that specializes in creating plant-based meat alternatives aimed at conscious consumers. Utilizing a combination of macro and microstructural engineering, Sundial Foods focuses on developing natural, plant-based meats that closely mimic the look, cooking characteristics, and taste of traditional meat. The company is dedicated to making these alternatives affordable and accessible, using familiar ingredients and straightforward production processes. Its mission centers on reducing meat consumption while mitigating the environmental impact associated with meat production, thereby providing sustainable options for consumers seeking healthier dietary choices.

Buffalo Market

Series A in 2021
Buffalo Market is a technology-enabled food distributor that specializes in working with fast-moving consumer goods companies committed to making the world a better place. The company focuses on distributing "better for you" brands, ensuring that customers receive fresher products more quickly by innovating its supply chain processes. Buffalo Market offers a range of premium organic products, including meat, seafood, eggs, dairy, and fruits sourced from local suppliers such as farmers, butchers, bakers, and fishermen. These products are transported to a fulfillment center where they are packed and prepared for delivery, providing consumers with high-quality, fresh goods at affordable rates.

CookUnity

Series B in 2021
CookUnity LLC is a personalized meal subscription platform that connects independent chefs with food enthusiasts. Founded in 2015 and based in Brooklyn, New York, the company offers a service that allows customers to select from a diverse menu of handcrafted meals, featuring sustainably-sourced ingredients and seasonal produce. The platform is designed for individuals seeking convenient, healthy dining options, with meals prepared by talented chefs who create a rotating selection based on availability. By providing an at-home dining experience, CookUnity caters to busy consumers who appreciate the artistry of gourmet cooking while enjoying the convenience of home delivery.

Scout

Seed Round in 2021
Scout is a company that manufactures and distributes canned seafood, focusing on providing deliciously crafted and responsibly sourced products. They obtain their seafood directly from regional fishing communities and manage fisheries that emphasize the well-being of both workers and the environment. By utilizing centuries-old canning methods combined with a homegrown artisan approach, Scout aims to reduce food waste and protect oceans and waterways. The company caters to specialty shops, including bakeries, seafood markets, and cheese shops, enabling customers to prepare their favorite dishes at home with quality ingredients.

Allset Technologies

Series C in 2021
Allset Technologies, Inc., commonly known as Allset, is a technology company that operates a mobile application designed to connect restaurants with local diners. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Los Angeles, California, Allset allows users to easily find nearby restaurants, place orders in advance, and pay for their meals without the need for waiting. The platform emphasizes commission-free transactions for restaurants, enabling them to provide online ordering and contactless dining solutions. Additionally, Allset features a rewards program that offers cashback on orders, alongside user-friendly menus and designated pickup areas. The company's focus is on facilitating convenient and efficient dining experiences for users, thereby supporting local restaurants and enhancing customer engagement in busy areas.

MealMe

Seed Round in 2021
MealMe is a food delivery platform that leverages artificial intelligence to streamline the ordering process from a vast network of restaurants, grocery stores, and retail outlets across the US and Canada. With its Universal Point of Sale API, MealMe provides access to real-time data on over 700 million products from more than one million merchants, offering valuable insights into menus and inventory for competitive pricing intelligence. The platform enables users to compare delivery times and costs from various providers while also allowing for bookings and reservations. MealMe's innovative technology facilitates the integration of product ordering directly into websites or applications, granting businesses the ability to manage their own checkout processes effectively. By focusing on user preferences and enhancing the food discovery experience, MealMe aims to connect consumers with a diverse range of dining and grocery options.

ByHeart

Series B in 2021
ByHeart, Inc. is a New York-based company specializing in the development of infant and baby nutritional food products. Founded in 2016, ByHeart focuses on creating formulas and foods that support various aspects of babies' health, including immune, microbiome, cognitive, and digestive health. The company emphasizes the use of hand-picked ingredients and small-batch blending to ensure high-quality, nutritious options for young children. ByHeart aims to translate advanced nutrition science and breastmilk research into innovative products that provide parents with peace of mind while proactively fostering a strong foundation for their babies’ future health. The company operates facilities in Pennsylvania, reinforcing its commitment to quality and safety in infant nutrition.

Jupiter

Pre Seed Round in 2021
Jupiter, Inc. is a digital platform that connects food brands with creators to promote recipe content and facilitate online grocery shopping. Founded in 2000 and based in San Francisco, the company enables food creators to launch their own grocery-powered recipe stores, allowing followers to shop directly from their social media feeds. By analyzing customer preferences and needs, Jupiter builds personalized shopping carts for users. The platform integrates delivery APIs to streamline order processing and has successfully collaborated with prominent food creators, enhancing brand visibility through engaging and trusted content. Jupiter's innovative approach supports food creators in monetizing their influence while providing consumers with easy access to curated grocery options.

Tiny Organics

Series A in 2021
Tiny Organics Inc. is a technology-driven company specializing in personalized nutrition for babies and toddlers. Founded in 2018 and headquartered in New York, Tiny Organics offers a variety of organic, nutrient-rich finger foods crafted by neonatal nutritionists and chefs. Their meals, designed to support developmental milestones, contain no added sugars or salt and feature sophisticated combinations of plant-based ingredients. Customers can easily select meals through an online quiz, with options available for shipping directly to their homes. The company emphasizes creating adventurous eaters by providing flavorful meals that inspire healthy eating habits from an early age. Tiny Organics has gained recognition in national publications and has attracted investments from notable figures in the industry.

Hooray Foods

Seed Round in 2021
Hooray Foods, Inc. is a San Francisco-based company founded in 2019 that specializes in producing plant-based meat products, specifically designed to mimic the taste and cooking experience of traditional bacon. Utilizing a proprietary fat encapsulation technique, Hooray Foods creates products that sizzle, smell, and taste like real bacon while being gluten-free, soy-free, nitrite-free, and hormone-free. The company aims to provide consumers with a healthy, affordable, and flavorful alternative to bacon, catering to those looking to reduce meat consumption without sacrificing taste. Hooray Foods sells its products through various partners, markets, and cafes, making plant-based options accessible to a wider audience.

Bowery Farming

Series C in 2021
Bowery Farming Inc. is a modern agricultural company based in New York, specializing in post-organic produce. Founded in 2014, the company focuses on growing a variety of greens, including baby kale, lettuce, arugula, and basil, using innovative indoor farming techniques. By leveraging advanced technology, such as its proprietary BoweryOS software, Bowery Farming creates optimal conditions for plant growth, allowing it to operate without pesticides and using significantly less water compared to traditional farming methods. This technology enables the company to be over 100 times more productive on the same land footprint. Bowery's products are distributed through grocery stores and featured in the menus of renowned restaurants, emphasizing the company's commitment to providing fresh, sustainable produce to consumers.

Chef Robotics

Seed Round in 2021
Chef Robotics is a robotics and artificial intelligence company serving the food industry. The company was founded in 2019 and is headquartered in San Francisco, California.

Territory Foods

Series B in 2021
Territory Foods is a meal delivery service that specializes in chef-prepared, nutritionist-approved meals tailored to meet various dietary preferences and regional tastes. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Arlington, VA, the company offers a rotating menu of freshly made artisan meals that are responsibly sourced and free of refined sugars, gluten, and dairy. Meals are designed by in-house culinary professionals and nutrition experts, with an emphasis on customization to accommodate dietary templates such as Vegan, Vegetarian, Whole30, and Keto. Territory Foods utilizes a proprietary algorithm to provide personalized menu options at scale, allowing health-conscious consumers to enjoy convenient, ready-to-eat meals delivered to their doorstep.

MealMe

Pre Seed Round in 2021
MealMe is a food delivery platform that leverages artificial intelligence to streamline the ordering process from a vast network of restaurants, grocery stores, and retail outlets across the US and Canada. With its Universal Point of Sale API, MealMe provides access to real-time data on over 700 million products from more than one million merchants, offering valuable insights into menus and inventory for competitive pricing intelligence. The platform enables users to compare delivery times and costs from various providers while also allowing for bookings and reservations. MealMe's innovative technology facilitates the integration of product ordering directly into websites or applications, granting businesses the ability to manage their own checkout processes effectively. By focusing on user preferences and enhancing the food discovery experience, MealMe aims to connect consumers with a diverse range of dining and grocery options.

Pepper

Seed Round in 2020
Pepper is a digital platform based in New York that streamlines the food supply chain for suppliers and restaurants. It facilitates order placement, real-time communication with suppliers, and invoice tracking, thereby enhancing collaboration between restaurants and their suppliers. The platform enables restaurant operators to manage multiple supplier relationships effectively, resolve order and delivery issues promptly, and gain insights into business performance. Additionally, it allows for the promotion of items or brands to specific customers, simplifying the purchasing process for both restaurants and consumers. By providing these services, Pepper aims to help restaurants and suppliers create more resilient businesses in an ever-evolving food industry.

Zero Grocery

Seed Round in 2020
Zero Grocery Inc., established in 2019 and headquartered in Redwood City, California, operates as an online retailer specializing in grocery products. The company offers a subscription-based delivery service with a focus on sustainability. All goods are delivered in reusable packaging to eliminate single-use plastics from the food system, aligning with their mission to promote zero-waste practices.

MycoTechnology

Series D in 2020
MycoTechnology is a food technology company based in Aurora, Colorado, that specializes in utilizing fungi-based food-processing platforms to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of agricultural products. Incorporated in 2013, the company addresses challenges in the food, beverage, and flavor industries through innovative solutions. One of its key products, ClearTaste, is an all-natural, GMO-free, organic bitter blocker that is both Kosher and Halal certified, designed to improve the flavor profile of various agricultural offerings. Additionally, MycoTechnology engages in the fermentation of agricultural products using gourmet fungi, producing items such as myceliated chocolate and enhanced coffee beans. The company also develops and licenses technology aimed at naturally improving the flavor characteristics of robusta and arabica coffee, thereby enabling food producers to incorporate healthier ingredients and strengthen brand association.

Zero Grocery

Seed Round in 2020
Zero Grocery Inc., established in 2019 and headquartered in Redwood City, California, operates as an online retailer specializing in grocery products. The company offers a subscription-based delivery service with a focus on sustainability. All goods are delivered in reusable packaging to eliminate single-use plastics from the food system, aligning with their mission to promote zero-waste practices.

Hungry

Series B in 2020
Hungry is a Washington D.C.-based company that operates a food catering and delivery marketplace. Founded by Eman Pahlavani, Shy Pahlevani, and Jeff Grass, Hungry connects independent chefs with businesses seeking high-quality catered meals. The platform offers a variety of prepared meals for different occasions, allowing businesses to order office lunches from a network of local chefs with curated menus. Hungry is committed to community improvement through initiatives like the ‘Fight Against Hunger’ program, which donates one meal to those in need for every two purchased, and the ‘WeRecycle’ program, which promotes environmental waste reduction by offering biodegradable plates and cutlery. The company has operations in several major U.S. cities, including Philadelphia, Atlanta, Boston, and New York City, with plans to expand its footprint to 23 cities by the end of 2021.

MycoTechnology

Series C in 2019
MycoTechnology is a food technology company based in Aurora, Colorado, that specializes in utilizing fungi-based food-processing platforms to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of agricultural products. Incorporated in 2013, the company addresses challenges in the food, beverage, and flavor industries through innovative solutions. One of its key products, ClearTaste, is an all-natural, GMO-free, organic bitter blocker that is both Kosher and Halal certified, designed to improve the flavor profile of various agricultural offerings. Additionally, MycoTechnology engages in the fermentation of agricultural products using gourmet fungi, producing items such as myceliated chocolate and enhanced coffee beans. The company also develops and licenses technology aimed at naturally improving the flavor characteristics of robusta and arabica coffee, thereby enabling food producers to incorporate healthier ingredients and strengthen brand association.

Bokksu

Seed Round in 2019
Bokksu Inc. is a subscription-based service that offers an assortment of Japanese snacks, candies, and tea pairings delivered monthly. Founded in 2015 and based in Carlstadt, New Jersey, the company partners directly with local snack makers across Japan to provide a unique cultural experience through gourmet snacks and authentic storytelling. Bokksu delivers a variety of products, including candies, cookies, and baked goods, to customers in multiple countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, Singapore, and India. By connecting customers with traditional Japanese snacks, Bokksu not only promotes Japanese culture but also supports local communities and artisans.

Nexba

Series A in 2019
Nexba, established in 2010 and headquartered in North Sydney, Australia, specializes in producing and distributing sugar-free beverages. The company offers a range of products, including Naturally Sugar Free Cola, Lemon, and Orange Sparkling Infusions, which are made from natural ingredients and sold through both retail stores and online channels. Nexba aims to provide healthier liquid refreshment alternatives to traditional soft drinks, enabling consumers to reduce calorie intake and improve their health.

Territory Foods

Series A in 2019
Territory Foods is a meal delivery service that specializes in chef-prepared, nutritionist-approved meals tailored to meet various dietary preferences and regional tastes. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Arlington, VA, the company offers a rotating menu of freshly made artisan meals that are responsibly sourced and free of refined sugars, gluten, and dairy. Meals are designed by in-house culinary professionals and nutrition experts, with an emphasis on customization to accommodate dietary templates such as Vegan, Vegetarian, Whole30, and Keto. Territory Foods utilizes a proprietary algorithm to provide personalized menu options at scale, allowing health-conscious consumers to enjoy convenient, ready-to-eat meals delivered to their doorstep.

New Wave Foods

Seed Round in 2018
New Wave Foods, Inc., established in 2015 and headquartered in San Francisco, specializes in producing and selling plant-based seafood products. The company offers a range of shrimp alternatives, including sautéed, grilled, breaded, and fried options, as well as shrimp tacos and salads. These products are made from sustainably sourced seaweed, soy protein, and natural flavors, providing a sustainable and healthier alternative to traditional seafood. New Wave Foods serves customers in the culinary market across the United States, positioning itself as a leader in sustainable seafood.
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