Innovations for the food industry
We are
Food-Processing Initiative eV.
The Food-Processing Initiative eV (FPI) is an innovation network for the food industry with over 25 years of experience. Based in Bielefeld, it acts as an independent partner, bringing together companies, research institutions, technology providers, and policymakers – pragmatically, solution-oriented, and always with a focus on successful practical implementation.
Guided by the motto "We connect expertise for innovative solutions," FPI primarily supports small and medium-sized enterprises in strengthening their competitiveness. It facilitates access to know-how, technologies, funding, and international networks – quickly, easily, and tailored to specific needs.
The FPI helps ensure that innovations reach the company – for example through more efficient processes, reduced resource usage or new business models.
With strong partnerships at the regional, European and international level, as well as numerous practical projects, the FPI is a driving force for the transformation of the food industry.
Thematic priorities of the FPI:
- Digital transformation: Using technologies strategically to make processes more efficient and transparent.
- Sustainable production: conserving resources, using energy efficiently and closing cycles
- Quality & Food Safety: Supporting companies with standards, regulations and best practices
- Personnel & Qualification: Developing skilled workers and supporting companies through change
- Market and technology access: Bringing innovations into application and opening up new markets
- International cooperation: Expanding networks and projects at the European and global level
In short: FPI brings together the right partners, makes knowledge usable and helps companies to successfully implement innovations in practice.
Your expert on innovation networks in the food industry
Norbert Reichl
Norbert Reichl is the managing director of the Food-Processing Initiative e.V. and is one of the leading network and innovation managers in the German food industry. Since the founding of the cluster organization in 2001, he has been responsible for the establishment and strategic development of a Europe-wide networked innovation network for the agricultural and food sectors.
His focus lies in the design of innovation and cooperation projects, the initiation of international networking and funding projects, and the strategic development of national and international partnerships. Furthermore, he advises companies in the food industry on topics such as digital transformation, knowledge transfer, communication, personnel development, and the practical implementation of innovative technologies.
Under his leadership, the Food Processing Initiative developed into a recognized cluster organization with a strong focus on sustainability, digitalization, and international cooperation. Reichl's goal is to accelerate the translation of research results into marketable solutions and to network companies along the entire food value chain.
Telephone: +49(0)521 98640-0
Email: Norbert.Reichl@foodprocessing.de
