Munich Startup: What does your startup do? What problem do you solve?
Sarah Schlingloff, JustakeOur startup is developing an innovative and sustainable mushroom-based meat alternative. Meat consumption, especially beef consumption, is one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions and biodiversity loss. Despite growing demand for plant-based substitutes, there are currently few, if any, compelling alternatives. Our goal is to solve this problem by offering a healthier, tastier, and more cost-effective product than anything currently available on the market. This allows us to reduce the ecological footprint while preserving the taste and texture of meat.
“It is a completely new product”
Munich Startup: But that's been around for a long time!
Sarah Schlingloff: No, it's a completely new product. We've already filed a patent application for our innovative technology. The mushroom steak is suitable not only for allergy sufferers, but also for meat lovers and people who want to take care of their health. It's completely cholesterol-free and contains many valuable vitamins. Compared to conventional meat or other meat substitutes, we offer a taste experience that can be enjoyed without any guilt.
Munich Startup: What is your founding story?
Sarah Schlingloff: The technology was developed as part of the IGL #9 Innovation competition for beverages and food at the Technical University of Munich. This competition offered us the opportunity to intensively explore a startup idea and overcome various challenges in the food sector. We were able to draw on the university's numerous resources to further develop our idea. We won the competition in the "Food" category with our mushroom steak.
Our team currently consists of two founders and one employee. I met my co-founder at Bits & Pretzels' "Speed Dating" networking event. We plan to officially launch the company in the middle of next year, as we are currently applying for the EXIST start-up grant.
Prejudices regarding female leadership qualities
Munich Startup: What have been your biggest challenges so far?
Sarah Schlingloff: Balancing a startup, jobs, and studies is definitely a challenge. Building a company alongside your studies is definitely a challenge, but as an entrepreneurship university, TUM also offers many opportunities for resources and networking.
As a young Woman in Business I also often face the challenge of asserting myself in a male-dominated industry and dealing with prejudices regarding my leadership abilities. However, I also see each of these hurdles as an opportunity to prove myself and bring about change.
I'm convinced that women often bring alternative perspectives, empathy, and exceptional communication skills to business – qualities that are essential for the success of young companies. Fortunately, I have a fantastic team that fully supports me, as well as the German startup ecosystem, which is increasingly supporting women in entrepreneurship.
It is personally important to me that I face these hurdles; in doing so, I not only set standards for myself, but also pave the way for the next generation of successful female entrepreneurs.
Munich Startup: Where would you like to be in one year, where in five years?
Sarah Schlingloff: In one year we founded our company and successfully launched a product on the market.
In five years, we will be available throughout Europe and the US, actively contributing to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda. This global initiative, with its 17 Sustainable Development Goals, promotes peace, prosperity, and the protection of our planet. With our diverse and international team and our sustainable and accessible approach, we can make a positive impact.
Our product promotes health through its high vitamin and protein content. Our company places particular emphasis on equal opportunities and fair working conditions. The mushroom steak supports responsible consumer behavior because it is produced in a resource-efficient manner. It actively contributes to climate protection by reducing CO2 emissions compared to animal products. This is not only a step toward more sustainable communities but also contributes to the preservation of terrestrial ecosystems and the promotion of biodiversity.
Courage for new things
Munich Startup: How have you experienced Munich as a startup location so far?
Sarah Schlingloff: Good! There are many networking events and a large number of open and helpful people. This makes the process of starting a business much easier. The Munich ecosystem offers a wealth of opportunities, which we all enjoy taking advantage of.
Munich Startup: Risk or security?
Sarah Schlingloff: Risk. You have to dare, have the courage to try something new, approach people, and pitch to a room full of potential business partners, investors, and listeners. Nevertheless, we always act according to a clear plan, with certainty and passion to achieve our goal.
