As 2024 comes to a close, our team is celebrating the season by spotlighting some of the most exciting startups making waves in their industries. Each scout has selected three companies that caught their attention this year. From food tech to AI, architecture to accessibility, these 12 startups embody the spirit of innovation and impact.
So, grab a mince pie, get cosy, and join us as we unwrap our 12 Startups of Christmas.
Aidan Lethem: Cultivating a Better Future
I’ve spent much of the year immersed in the food and agtech space, and for good reason. Agriculture accounts for a third of global greenhouse gas emissions, uses 70% of the world’s freshwater, and takes up half of the planet’s habitable land. With the growing global population and escalating food demands, innovation in this space is not just important—it’s essential. Here are my top picks:
Applied Carbon
This startup is turning agricultural waste into something extraordinary. Their tractor trailer converts leftover crop waste into biochar, a carbon-rich material that improves soil health, increases crop yield, and conserves water. It’s a win-win for farmers and the environment.
Phytoform
Phytoform is at the cutting edge of gene-editing technology. They’re enhancing crop productivity by introducing traits that reduce emissions and improve resilience to climate change. In a world where we need to produce more food with fewer resources, Phytoform is a beacon of hope.
Raiz
Okay, I might be a little biased on this one—I co-founded Raiz. But I couldn’t leave it out! We’ve just launched a 3D-printed, modular hydroponic system that makes vertical farming more accessible. It’s designed to help you grow fresh, pesticide-free produce at home or in urban environments.
Alizey Husain: Empowering Lives Through Innovation
I’m drawn to startups that blend technology with purpose, solving real-world challenges and empowering people in meaningful ways. These three stood out for their ability to make life better, one solution at a time.
Be My Eyes is a beautifully simple yet powerful concept. It connects blind and low-vision individuals with volunteers and companies through live video for real-time assistance. Whether it’s reading a label or navigating a new environment, this app creates human connections that make everyday life easier. They’re even integrating AI to expand their reach and impact.
Field Doctor is revolutionising the frozen meal market with chef-made, dietitian-approved dishes tailored to those on a low FODMAP diet. For people with IBS or digestive issues, finding delicious, stress-free meals that align with their health needs can be life-changing. Field Doctor makes healthy eating accessible and enjoyable.
Ellevest is more than just a financial platform—it’s a movement. Designed by women, for women, it offers investing, financial planning, and wealth management tools to help close the gender wealth gap. Ellevest is creating a supportive community where women can build confidence and take control of their financial futures.
Neal Tantisukrit: Pioneering Health and AI
From transforming our relationship with sugar to extending the lives of our furry friends, my picks for this year are all about pushing boundaries and reshaping what’s possible.
What if sugar didn’t have to be sugar? Zya is a FoodTech startup using enzymes to convert sugar into fibre. Yes, you read that right. This breakthrough has the potential to revolutionise how we consume food and tackle the global health crisis of excessive sugar consumption. Zya is already making waves with major food and beverage brands.
Loyal is one of the coolest pet startups I’ve come across. They’re developing therapeutics to slow down the ageing process in dogs, improving their quality of life as they grow older. With two products in clinical trials, Loyal is on track to launch their first solution in 2025. Imagine more years with your best friend—that’s Loyal’s promise.
AI meets fashion with Raspberry AI. This startup provides generative AI tools to streamline fashion design, helping brands save time, money, and resources. Companies like H&M and Coppel Group are already on board, and with backing from Khosla Ventures, Raspberry AI is set to reshape the future of fashion.
Filipe Videira: Transforming Spaces and Systems
My picks for this year are all about transformation—whether it’s how we design buildings, adopt circular business models, or manage waste. These startups are creating solutions that reimagine how we live and work.
Arkio is redefining collaborative architecture and design. Their platform allows multiple users to edit a 3D model in real-time, visualising it at a 1:1 scale to truly understand the space. It’s like stepping inside your project before it’s built, making it a game-changer for architects and designers.
Circuly is helping companies transition to Product-as-a-Service models, enabling more sustainable consumption patterns. By integrating with existing systems, Circuly makes it easier for businesses to adopt circular practices and thrive in the new economy.
PLAEX has developed an innovative, human-centric waste sorting solution. Their automatic bin uses proprietary technology to sort waste optimally, reducing residual waste and lowering costs for facilities. With gamification features that encourage proper recycling behaviour, PLAEX is making sustainability smarter and more engaging.
Wrapping Up
There you have it—our 12 Startups of Christmas! Each of these companies is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, driving innovation, and positively impacting the world. Whether it’s improving how we grow food, empowering marginalised communities, or designing the future of fashion and architecture, these startups are ones to watch in 2025.
Wishing you a joyful holiday season filled with innovation, inspiration, and a brighter future ahead!