Meet the team: Antje Räuscher

Antje Räuscher is the Programme & Innovation Manager at the ProVeg Incubator. Antje is originally from the north sea but grew up in Halle an der Saale. Before joining ProVeg in March 2019, she had lived in Shanghai, Seoul, and Denmark.

Antje, what do you do at the ProVeg Incubator?

As a Programme and Innovation Manager I am leading the programming side of our operations. That means that I design and organise the tailormade accelerator programme that we deliver to our startups. I also work closely with the founders of those startups on their strategies and keep them aligned with their goals.

In addition, I am responsible for scouting new startups to join the ProVeg Incubator and lead the selection process that decides the companies we’ll work with. I also work to expand our strategic partner network in key areas.

How did you end up working in this position?

Food was always something I wanted to work in, especially because it cuts across so many different disciplines and has such an impact on people’s lives.

I completed a stint in international development cooperation, working on topics such as food security and sustainable supply chains. I was with the German Development Agency in Sri Lanka where I worked with and consulted startups before I joined the Proveg Incubator.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

My job at the ProVeg Incubator allows me to meet and work alongside so many inspiring, driven, and genuinely nice people which is truly gratifying. I think this is very special to the alternative protein industry. It’s a very exciting space but it’s also just full of people who are keen to contribute towards a better food system.

What are some of the challenges of your job?

For me personally, the biggest challenge is to say no to certain startups who apply for our programme. There are so many hard-working and mission-driven founders out there, that it would be impossible for us to work with them all. However, sometimes it is just really difficult to have to turn startups down.

What are the values that drive you?

Integrity, making a difference, and having fun along the way.

Tell us three interesting facts about yourself.

  1. I worked in Tanzanian villages for three months
  2. My sense of smell is very good
  3. I know where to find the best spicy food in Berlin

What are your top three podcast/book/documentary recommendations?

The Sympathizer (book), Verbrechen Podcast, Home of the Brave (Podcast), My Octopus Teacher (documentary)

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

Eating, hiking, mushroom foraging, spending time with friends, and playing games.

If your flat was on fire, what items would you save? (assume family and pets are safe)

This is impossible to answer, I have so much stuff.

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