Canopy R&D: Supporting the Next Generation of Food System Innovators

Canopy R&D provides flexible, high-impact technical support for early-stage ventures across the food system. We help founders move faster, make smarter decisions, and bring credible innovation to life backed by decades of experience in FMCG R&D.

Whether you’re developing your first prototype or scaling a breakthrough idea, Canopy R&D helps bridge the gap between bold vision and practical execution.

For Startups

Hands-on, outcome-driven, support when and where it matters most.

Fractional R&D / Innovation Leadership

·      Interim support to fill technical gaps without full-time cost

·      Help shaping early-stage product and packaging strategy

·      Input on claims, regulatory, shelf life, scale-up and sustainability

Product & Pack Development

·      Advice on formulation, pack design and early supply chain problem-solving

·      Navigating constraints in startup environments

·     Smoothing the process from idea and ambition to credible delivery

Mentoring & Support for Founders

·      Trusted input on science-backed decisions

·      Coaching for non-technical founders

·      Sounding board for preparing for investor, retailer or partner conversations

For Investors & Accelerators

Insightful, pragmatic support across your portfolio.

Technical Screening & Evaluation

·      Reviewing technical viability, claims, and roadmap

·      Identifying risks and opportunities early

Mentoring & Capability Building

·      Supporting founders through critical development stages

·      Acting as a fractional technical advisor during transition phases

Startup Scouting & Insight

·      Helping you identify promising early-stage ventures

·      Bringing real-world R&D perspective to your innovation pipeline

Start with a Free 90-Minute Idea Session

We offer a no-risk, exploratory working session to help founders explore technical challenges and see where Canopy R&D can add value.

It’s a chance to spark ideas, talk through roadblocks, and get straight, experienced input. No pressure. No jargon. Just goodwill and honest support.

Why Canopy R&D?

Chris Goodsall, founder of Canopy R&D, brings over 30 years of experience across many different aspects of corporate FMCG R&D and Innovation. Canopy R&D is built for flexibility, speed and outcome-focused delivery, designed to meet the unique needs of startups, accelerators and purpose-driven investors.

We don’t just understand the science, we understand how to land it.

Get in touch to explore how Canopy R&D can support your journey.