From the sun-drenched streets of Murcia, where he spent his first 24 years, to the dynamic atmosphere of Barcelona, Juan Francisco Carillo’s journey has been anything but ordinary. A recent biotech graduate from Universidad Miguel Hernández de Elche, Juan navigated his academic life with a mix of passion and uncertainty. Whilst bioscience offered intellectual challenges, it was the deep connections with friends and the vibrant university community that truly enriched his experience.
In Barcelona, Paolo Fusaro, originally hailing from Italy, found his new home a decade ago. With an extensive background in business and an intimate knowledge of the local culture, Paolo’s seasoned perspective was the perfect complement to Juan’s fresh, fervent energy.
The genesis of Impact Foods came during Juan’s graduation project, which initially started as a routine business plan. Juan, however, saw beyond the academic exercise to its real-world potential—upcycling coffee grounds into innovative, sustainable food products. This idea was raw, yet it brimmed with possibility. Despite the world grinding to a halt during the pandemic, Juan’s entrepreneurial flame was undeterred. In 2021, Impact Foods came to life, co-founded by Juan’s relentless drive and Paolo’s strategic prowess. Their partnership was a testament to the power of combining youthful vigour with experienced insight.
Innovating with Impact:
At its core, Impact Foods champions a circular economy, turning “spent grains” from coffee, beer, and plant-based drinks into nutritious, eco-friendly products. This not only addresses the waste issue prevalent in food production but also challenges the industry norms by demonstrating that sustainability can be practical and palatable.
Transitioning to a business-to-business model introduced its own set of challenges, notably when dealing with large corporations. Partnerships with industry leaders like Mahou San Miguel and Capsa Vida highlighted the market’s appetite for sustainable solutions but also its inherent sluggishness and red tape. Yet, it was Juan and Paolo’s nimble approach that enabled them to navigate these challenges effectively.
A Journey of Unexpected Passion:
Juan’s profound engagement with Impact Foods wasn’t born from lifelong aspirations but ignited by the project’s potential and his own fierce desire to effect substantial change. This spark of motivation has evolved into a powerful force, propelling Impact Foods forward with relentless energy and commitment.
Together, Juan and Paolo aren’t just challenging the status quo; they are redefining it. Their narrative is one of innovation, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of a sustainable future. They stand as fearless young innovators in the face of industry giants, armed with innovative ideas and a vision for a better tomorrow.