Education and workforce development

We’re building a thriving ecosystem to ensure the alternative protein sector has the talent needed to innovate, scale, and transform our global food system. Our education and workforce development initiatives connect learners, educators, and professionals with the skills and tools to lead this transformation.

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Why it matters

Alternative proteins are not only changing what we eat but also how we eat—reshaping industries, powering local economies, and creating new opportunities for climate-friendly innovation.

As the industry scales, it faces a critical challenge: building a workforce with the skills to meet its evolving needs. 

Our education and workforce development team bridges this gap by connecting students, educators, and professionals with the tools, training, and networks they need to succeed.

Our goal is to ensure today’s learners become tomorrow’s food system innovators.

Learn: Build your knowledge

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Start learning with our free online course

This free, self-paced online course covers the science, economics, and climate relevance of plant-based, cultivated, and fermentation-derived meat technologies.

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Alternative protein course database

Explore in-person and virtual academic programs from around the world. Use this searchable database to find courses that match your goals.

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The Science of Alt Proteins

Learn from academic or industry experts through our monthly webinar series. Each session explores breakthrough science or uncovers gaps in the field that are worth exploring.

Teach: Inspire the next generation

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Visit the teaching library

Designing a new course or updating your syllabus? Access ready-to-use syllabi, slide decks, recorded lectures, and recommended readings from leading alternative protein programs.

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Watch Alt Protein Pipelines webinars

Get actionable guidance on alternative protein education and training through our curated webinar series. These webinars help you launch new courses, enhance programs, or build learning communities.

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Build alternative protein courses and majors

Use this step-by-step guide to create alternative protein courses at your institution and advocate for majors, minors, and other certificates.

Advance: Grow your career

The alternative protein ecosystem map

Alternative protein ecosystem map

Discover startups, innovation hubs, researchers, and student groups worldwide through our interactive global map.

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Watch Building Your Alt Protein Career webinars

Get expert advice and career insight from professionals working across the alternative proteins landscape.

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Vocations & careers portal

Find jobs, career guides, and industry insights to help you launch or grow your mission-driven career in alternative proteins.

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Alternative protein career pathways

Learn what skills are in demand, which roles exist, and how to transition into or grow within the field of sustainable protein.

Join the movement

The alternative protein sector is scaling fast. We need bold thinkers, curious learners, and passionate educators to shape its future. From deepening your own learning, designing a course, or exploring career options, we are here to support your journey.

Our approach

We empower educators, students, and professionals to build careers in this high-impact space by:

  • Creating open-access tools and training opportunities
  • Partnering with institutions across the training spectrum, including K-12, community and technical colleges, universities, industry, non-profits, and economic development organizations, to build academic pathways
  • Connecting industry professionals to mission-driven careers

Together, we’re helping ensure today’s learners become tomorrow’s food system leaders.

Connect with us

Have questions or ideas? Reach out to our team.

Janie butler

Janie Butler

EDUCATION AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST

Janie Butler develops dynamic educational programs and workforce solutions to cultivate talent in the growing alternative protein sector.