What does it take to turn a Thai coconut, a traditional dessert or a bright student idea into the next big food business At Assumption University of Thailand (AU), the answer now includes 13 new partners ready to help make it happen.
The Theophane Venard School of Food Biotechnology and Innovation (FBI) at Assumption University (AU) brought together 13 industry organizations, entrepreneurs and community enterprises on September 25, 2026, for a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing aimed at giving the next generation of food innovators the skills, connections and opportunities to succeed.
The partnerships, established under the New Breed Graduate Program, will help students gain practical experience in food innovation, research, product development and entrepreneurship while supporting Thailand’s growing future food industry.
And this collaboration goes well beyond the laboratory.
With expertise spanning smart farming, agricultural drones, functional foods, traditional Thai desserts, startup financing and international shipping, AU’s new partners bring together the knowledge and resources needed to help promising food ideas succeed in the marketplace.
A Recipe for Real-World Success
Imagine students developing a healthier snack from locally grown ingredients, discovering a new use for Thai herbs or finding an international market for a traditional community product.
Through these partnerships, such possibilities can become practical learning experiences.
Students will have opportunities to explore the entire food business journey, including research, proof of concept, product prototyping, production planning, marketing, financial management and commercialization.
The collaboration also creates opportunities for knowledge exchange between university researchers and industry professionals, helping businesses explore new products while giving students a better understanding of the challenges and opportunities awaiting them after graduation.
Meet the Ingredients Behind the Innovation
AU’s 13 partners represent an impressive mix of expertise, with each bringing something valuable to the table.
In food research and product innovation, Innovative Pharma Herbs Company Limited brings its focus on the Food as Medicine concept, while SKY Pharma Agro Consultancy Co., Ltd. contributes expertise in extracts and active compounds. W&M Natural Products Co., Ltd. specializes in developing functional foods from Thai coconuts.
On the production and culinary side, Value Sourcing Co., Ltd., through its Reo’s Deli brand, offers experience in ready-to-eat foods, while ZEEDDER Co., Ltd. focuses on adding value to Thai dipping sauces and related products.
Traditional Thai food knowledge also has a place at the innovation table. Krathum Rai Phatthana Community Enterprise, known for its Khanom Mae Saraphi brand, and Lung Anek bring expertise in Thai desserts and established production traditions, helping preserve culinary heritage while exploring new commercial opportunities.
Meanwhile, Centro Vision Co., Ltd. and Sakawchan Garden contribute agricultural technology and smart farming expertise, including the use of drones and modern cultivation practices.
Helping turn promising products into viable businesses are Taste Bud, which connects FoodTech and BioTech innovators with funding and startup support through initiatives such as TED Youth Startup; Thinkmate Business Advisory Company Limited, specializing in financial and business planning, taxation and management; and Seabra Trans International Co., Ltd., which brings international trade, shipping and logistics expertise.
Completing the partnership is the Federation of Thai Industries, Phetchaburi Chapter, providing valuable connections to wider industry networks and opportunities for academic and commercial collaboration.
Together, these 13 organizations give AU students access to perspectives, professional networks and practical expertise that no single classroom or laboratory could provide.
Good Ideas Deserve a Place at the Table
For the Theophane Venard School of Food Biotechnology and Innovation, the initiative reflects an educational approach that combines scientific knowledge with creativity, commercial awareness and hands-on experience.
It also recognizes that Thailand’s food future is not simply about inventing something new. It is about finding smarter, more sustainable and more profitable ways to use the ingredients, traditions and expertise the country already possesses.
By connecting students with businesses of different sizes and specialties, AU aims to develop graduates who can contribute to food innovation from day one, whether they join an established company, support a community enterprise or launch their own venture.
With 13 new partners bringing their expertise to the table, AU is helping ensure that the next great Thai food innovation has more than a promising recipe. It has a pathway to success.
WRITER : THE AU LIBRARY
More Information about Theophane Venard School of Food Biotechnology and Innovation, please visit:
Website: https://foodbiotech.au.edu/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FoodBiotechABAC
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/foodbiotechau
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@foodbiotechabac
E-mail: foodbiotech@au.edu
Tel: (+66)-2783-2222 Ext. 3793, 3796
