The food packaging industry in the US is a vital segment that ensures ingredients stay fresh, safe, and appealing. It comprises manufacturers who produce materials like plastics, paper, and metals, catering to food processors, retailers, and consumers. With rising concerns about sustainability, many companies are shifting towards eco-friendly options such as biodegradable and recyclable packaging. Innovations in technology are also paving the way for smart packaging that monitors food freshness. As consumer preferences evolve, the industry is anticipated to embrace smarter, sustainable practices, solidifying its role in enhancing food safety and environmental responsibility.


Our list features a mix of venture capital and private equity investors, primarily based in major hubs like New York and San Francisco. Ranging in size from small firms with a handful of employees to large global entities with thousands, these investors collectively participated in over 1,500 deals in 2024. Founded in various decades from the late 20th century to the recent past, each investor brings a unique approach to fostering growth in the food packaging sector. This diverse group showcases significant engagement with innovations and sustainability within the food packaging space.


Top 19 Food Packaging Investors in the US


1. Sosv

  • Website: sosv.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1995
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 170
  • LinkedIn: sosv

SOSV is a venture capital firm founded in 1995, specializing in funding and supporting deep tech startups through its development programs. With a global reach, SOSV connects innovative companies with investors, providing venture capital investment and resources to help startups grow and succeed. Notably, SOSV has invested in food packaging-related companies, such as Simply Good Jars, which has received multiple rounds of funding from them, including a Seed Round in 2019 and a Series A in 2023. Additionally, they recently invested in Tastee Tape, further demonstrating their active role in the food packaging sector.


2. Advantage Capital


Advantage Capital is a venture capital firm based in New Orleans, Louisiana, founded in 1992. The firm specializes in providing equity and debt financing to small businesses across various sectors, including agribusiness, solar projects, and affordable housing. They focus on supporting entrepreneurs and businesses in underserved communities, offering flexible capital solutions to help them grow and thrive. Notably, Advantage Capital has been involved in transactions relevant to the food packaging industry, such as their investments in Danimer Scientific, which raised $6.5 million in a venture round and additional debt financing in 2019. Danimer Scientific is known for its innovative biodegradable plastics, which are crucial for sustainable food packaging. Additionally, they have provided debt financing to DRC Industries and IPAK, although the specific relevance of these companies to food packaging is less clear. Overall, Advantage Capital's engagement with companies that contribute to sustainable packaging solutions positions them as a relevant investor in the food packaging sector.


3. Y Combinator

  • Website: ycombinator.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 802
  • LinkedIn: y-combinator

Y Combinator is a prominent startup accelerator and venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2005. It provides funding and mentorship to early-stage technology companies through a structured program that includes resources like the Startup School and co-founder matching services. Over the years, Y Combinator has successfully launched more than 4,000 startups, establishing itself as a key player in the technology startup ecosystem. Among its diverse portfolio, Y Combinator has made notable investments in the food packaging industry, including Georgette Packaging, which raised $120,000 in a Pre-Seed round in March 2016, and Supplant, which raised $18 million in a Series A round in October 2021. These investments highlight Y Combinator's engagement with innovative companies in the food packaging space, demonstrating its broader interest in supporting advancements in this sector.


4. IndieBio

  • Website: indiebio.co
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2015
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 76
  • LinkedIn: indiebio

IndieBio is a venture capital firm founded in 2015 and based in San Francisco, California. It specializes in biotechnology and supports startups by providing investment, mentorship, and networking opportunities to help them develop innovative solutions across various sectors, including climate and food. In 2024, IndieBio has been particularly active, with 76 investments, including notable transactions such as Tastee Tape, which raised funds in a seed round focused on food packaging solutions. Other investments like Decomer Technology and Materia Bioworks, while not directly related to food packaging, indicate a broader interest in innovative technologies that could impact the food industry. Overall, IndieBio's commitment to supporting biotech entrepreneurs positions them as a relevant player in the food packaging sector.


5. Government of Canada

  • Website: canada.ca
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Canada, Kentucky, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1999
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 137
  • LinkedIn: government-of-canada

The Government of Canada is a public entity that provides a wide range of services and information to Canadian citizens and residents, addressing various needs including employment, immigration, health care, and taxation. Founded in 1999, it operates through multiple departments and agencies to ensure access to essential services and support for individuals and businesses across the country. In the context of food packaging, the Government of Canada has been involved in several relevant transactions, such as providing over $5.4 million in funding through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership to support food processing businesses in Ontario, including a grant of up to $57,726.25 to Algoma Orchards for purchasing an automated boiler for juice operations. Additionally, the government has issued grants to other food-related companies, such as Bee Maid Honey Limited, which raised $1,822,945 in August 2023. These transactions highlight the government's role in fostering innovation and efficiency in the food packaging sector.


6. 500 Global

  • Website: 500.co
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 98
  • LinkedIn: 500-startups

500 Global is a venture capital firm and startup accelerator based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2010. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage technology companies, providing funding, mentorship, and resources to help founders scale their businesses. With a global focus, 500 Global has made a significant number of investments, totaling 98 in 2024 alone. Among their notable transactions, they have invested in Folia Materials, which raised $150,000 in a Seed Round in 2017, indicating a focus on innovative materials that could be applicable in food packaging. Additionally, their investment in Arka, which raised $125,000 in a Pre-Seed Round in 2015, suggests an interest in packaging solutions for food products. These transactions highlight 500 Global's engagement with companies that are relevant to the food packaging industry, despite their broader focus on technology startups.


7. Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund)

  • Website: av.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2023
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 258
  • LinkedIn: deep-tech-fund-av-focused-fund

Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund) is a venture capital firm based in Manchester, New Hampshire, founded in 2023. It provides accredited investors and institutions with access to professionally-managed, diversified venture portfolios, leveraging a network of over 10,000 investors to connect them with high-quality investment opportunities in the startup ecosystem. The fund has been involved in several notable transactions, particularly in the food packaging context. For instance, it participated in the funding round for Tipa, an Israel-based producer of compostable flexible packaging solutions, which raised $25 million in 2019. Additionally, the fund invested in Loliware, a startup that focuses on seaweed-based materials for packaging, raising $6 million in early 2023. These investments highlight the fund's commitment to supporting innovative and sustainable solutions in the food packaging industry.


8. Kkr

  • Website: kkr.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1976
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 74
  • LinkedIn: kkr

KKR & Co. Inc. is a prominent investment firm based in New York, specializing in private equity, credit, infrastructure, and real estate. Founded in 1976, KKR provides asset management solutions to institutional investors and individual clients, helping them navigate complex investment landscapes to achieve strong financial returns. KKR operates globally, leveraging its extensive expertise and resources. Notably, KKR has made significant investments in the food packaging sector, including a €100 million deal with Petainer, a UK packaging company, and a 70% stake acquisition in CMC Machinery, an Italian manufacturer of automated packaging solutions. Additionally, KKR's acquisition of Goodpack, a company involved in packaging logistics, further underscores their commitment to the food packaging industry. These transactions highlight KKR's strategic focus on enhancing its portfolio in the food packaging space while maintaining a diverse investment approach.


9. IFC - International Finance Corporation

  • Website: ifc.org
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1956
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 107
  • LinkedIn: ifclinkedin

The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is a not-for-profit organization founded in 1956, based in Washington, D.C. It focuses on private sector development in emerging markets by providing investment, advisory, and asset management services to businesses and financial institutions. IFC operates in over 100 countries, addressing poverty and promoting sustainable development. Among its notable transactions, IFC has invested in WayCool Foods, a company that plays a significant role in the food supply chain, including food packaging, with a Series D fundraising round of $117 million. Additionally, IFC provided a $100 million finance package to Middle East Glass Manufacturing Company, which produces glass containers, essential for food packaging. These investments highlight IFC's engagement in the food packaging sector, supporting companies that enhance production and sustainability in this industry.


10. The Middleby Corporation

  • Website: middleby.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Elgin, Illinois, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1888
  • Headcount: 5001-10000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 5
  • LinkedIn: middleby-corporation

The Middleby Corporation, founded in 1888 and based in Elgin, Illinois, is a corporate investor specializing in manufacturing commercial and residential cooking and industrial process equipment. With a workforce of 5001-10000 employees, they are dedicated to providing innovative solutions that enhance efficiency and quality in food preparation across various sectors, including restaurants and residential markets. In recent years, The Middleby Corporation has made significant strides in the food packaging industry through strategic acquisitions. Notably, they acquired CP Packaging, a high-speed vacuum packaging equipment manufacturer, to bolster their packaging equipment offerings in the food processing sector. Additionally, their acquisition of CVP Systems, which focuses on high-speed packaging systems for the meat processing industry, further underscores their commitment to this market. Other relevant acquisitions include Wild Goose Filling and Burford Corp., which, while primarily focused on baking equipment, also contribute to their overall capabilities in food processing and packaging. These transactions highlight The Middleby Corporation's strategic expansion into the food packaging domain, aligning with their mission to enhance foodservice operations and consumer experiences.


11. The Riverside Company


The Riverside Company is a private equity investment firm based in New York, specializing in providing flexible capital solutions and strategic guidance to smaller middle-market businesses. Founded in 1988, Riverside has built a diverse portfolio of over 140 companies across various industries. Notably, Riverside has made significant investments in the food packaging sector, acquiring companies such as Selig Group, a leader in packaging solutions, and Vitex Packaging Group, which specializes in custom packaging solutions. Additionally, Riverside's acquisition of Hudson-Sharp Machine Company, known for its packaging machinery, further emphasizes its commitment to the food packaging industry. These transactions highlight Riverside's expertise and strategic focus in supporting transformative growth within the food packaging market.


12. Collaborative Fund

  • Website: collabfund.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 29
  • LinkedIn: collaborative-fund

Collaborative Fund is a venture capital firm based in New York, founded in 2010, that focuses on backing innovative companies across various sectors, including renewable energy, consumer goods, and health technology. They provide financial support and strategic guidance to entrepreneurs and startups aiming to create positive societal and environmental impacts. In recent transactions, Collaborative Fund has invested in 'Eat the Change', a company expanding into the ready-to-drink tea category, which highlights their interest in food-related ventures. Additionally, they have participated in funding rounds for companies like 'Mori' and 'Imagindairy', which, while not directly in food packaging, are involved in the food industry and emphasize sustainability and innovation. This aligns with their investment strategy of supporting businesses that push the world forward.


13. Lineage

  • Website: onelineage.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Novi, Michigan, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2012
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 4
  • LinkedIn: lineage-logistics

Lineage, Inc. is a corporate investor based in Novi, Michigan, specializing in logistics with a focus on temperature-controlled warehousing and supply chain solutions. Founded in 2012, Lineage has grown to become the world's largest global temperature-controlled warehouse REIT, providing essential services such as cold storage, transportation, and food processing support. Their operations span multiple countries, ensuring efficient management of the cold chain from production to delivery. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Eurofrigor, a leading cold storage service provider in Italy, which enhances their presence in the European market. Additionally, their acquisition of VersaCold Logistics Services in Canada further strengthens their cold chain capabilities. Other significant acquisitions include the Kloosterboer Norway facility and Frigocare Rotterdam, both of which contribute to their extensive network of temperature-controlled logistics solutions. These transactions highlight Lineage's strategic focus on expanding their services in the food industry, making them a key player in the food packaging supply chain.


14. FJ Labs

  • Website: fjlabs.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2015
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 169
  • LinkedIn: fj-labs

FJ Labs is a venture capital firm based in New York, founded in 2015, that specializes in investing in marketplace and network effect businesses. With a portfolio of over 1,000 companies, many achieving unicorn status, FJ Labs provides capital and strategic guidance to entrepreneurs across various industries, including e-commerce and logistics. Notably, they participated in the Series B funding round for Packhelp, a Warsaw-based custom and sustainable packaging marketplace, which raised €40M. This investment highlights FJ Labs' engagement in the food packaging sector, as Packhelp focuses on developing sustainable packaging solutions. Their diverse investment strategy, which includes significant transactions in various sectors, positions them as a versatile investor with potential interest in food packaging innovations.


15. The Carlyle Group

  • Website: carlyle.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1987
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 25
  • LinkedIn: the-carlyle-group

The Carlyle Group Inc. is a prominent investment management firm founded in 1987, specializing in private equity, real assets, and private credit. With a global presence and a focus on driving long-term value for institutional investors, Carlyle has made significant strides in various sectors, including food packaging. Noteworthy transactions include the acquisition of Novolex, a leader in plastic bags and recycling, which has seen substantial revenue growth since its acquisition. They also acquired a minority stake in Logoplaste, a Portuguese company specializing in plastic packaging, and HCP Packaging, further emphasizing their strategic investments in the food packaging industry. These transactions highlight Carlyle's expertise and commitment to enhancing value in the food packaging sector.


16. Gaingels

  • Website: gaingels.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Burlington, Vermont, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2015
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 60
  • LinkedIn: gaingels

Gaingels is a venture capital firm founded in 2015, based in Burlington, Vermont, dedicated to investing in companies with diverse leadership. The firm provides capital and support to startups, particularly those led by underrepresented groups, to foster diversity and inclusion in the innovation economy. Gaingels also offers scholarship programs and advisory services to enhance board diversity. Notably, they have participated in several transactions relevant to the food sector, including Bokksu, a Japanese snack subscription and e-grocer that raised $22 million in Series A funding, and MycoTechnology, which raised $85 million in Series E funding. These investments highlight Gaingels' engagement in the food industry, particularly in innovative food packaging and distribution models.


17. Adm

  • Website: adm.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1902
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: adm

The Archer-Daniels-Midland Company (ADM), founded in 1902 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is a prominent player in the food processing and commodities trading sector. With a workforce of over 10,000 employees, ADM specializes in providing a diverse range of ingredients and solutions for food and beverage manufacturers, as well as animal feed producers and pet food companies. The company is committed to sustainability and innovation in nutrition. Notably, ADM has made strategic acquisitions that enhance its position in the food industry, including the acquisition of Schokinag-Schokolade-Industrie Herrmann GmbH & Co. KG, which focuses on chocolate and cocoa products, and Biopolis, which strengthens its portfolio in food ingredients. These transactions highlight ADM's active role in the food packaging sector, as they expand their capabilities in food production and processing.


18. Cargill

  • Website: cargill.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Wayzata, Minnesota, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1865
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 7
  • LinkedIn: cargill

Cargill, Incorporated is a global food production and agricultural solutions company founded in 1865 and headquartered in Wayzata, Minnesota. With over 10,000 employees, Cargill provides a wide range of products and services, including animal nutrition, food ingredients, and risk management. The company is dedicated to enhancing food security and sustainability through innovative practices. Cargill has been actively involved in various transactions that highlight its role in the food industry. For instance, the acquisition of Smet, a Belgium-based supplier of chocolate and sweets decorations, enhances Cargill's gourmet chocolate offerings, which often require specialized packaging solutions. Additionally, their investment of $75 million in Puris, a provider of pea protein-based food ingredients, indicates a focus on innovative food products that may necessitate advanced packaging. These transactions reflect Cargill's strategic interest in sectors that are closely related to food packaging, making them a significant player in the industry.


19. Sonoco

  • Website: sonoco.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Hartsville, South Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1899
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: sonoco

Sonoco Products Company is a prominent packaging manufacturer based in Hartsville, South Carolina, with a history dating back to 1899. The company specializes in a diverse range of consumer and industrial packaging solutions, serving various industries, including food and beverage, healthcare, and personal care. In recent years, Sonoco has actively expanded its footprint in the food packaging sector through strategic acquisitions. Notably, in 2024, Sonoco acquired Eviosys for $3.9 billion, significantly enhancing its position as a leading global manufacturer of metal food cans. Additionally, the acquisition of Clear Lam Packaging for $170 million in 2017 bolstered its flexible packaging and thermoforming plastics operations. More recently, the acquisition of Inapel Embalagens in December 2023 further expanded its sustainable packaging portfolio in Brazil. These transactions highlight Sonoco's commitment to innovation and growth within the food packaging industry.



Food Packaging Insights: Key Investors in the US


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
SosvUnited States (USA)51-2001995170
Advantage CapitalNew Orleans, Louisiana, United States (USA)51-20019925
Y CombinatorSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)51-2002005802
IndieBioSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)1-10201576
Government of CanadaCanada, Kentucky, United States (USA)10001+1999137
500 GlobalSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)201-500201098
Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund)Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA)51-2002023258
KkrNew York, New York, United States (USA)1001-5000197674
IFC - International Finance CorporationWashington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)1001-50001956107
The Middleby CorporationElgin, Illinois, United States (USA)5001-1000018885
The Riverside CompanyNew York, New York, United States (USA)201-500198812
Collaborative FundNew York, New York, United States (USA)11-50201029
LineageNovi, Michigan, United States (USA)10001+20124
FJ LabsNew York, New York, United States (USA)11-502015169
The Carlyle GroupWashington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)1001-5000198725
GaingelsBurlington, Vermont, United States (USA)11-50201560
AdmChicago, Illinois, United States (USA)10001+19022
CargillWayzata, Minnesota, United States (USA)10001+18657
SonocoHartsville, South Carolina, United States (USA)10001+18992


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