Dr. Ítala Marx

I am a scientist-turned-entrepreneur passionate about building scalable solutions at the intersection of biotechnology, circular bioeconomy and sustainability.

As the founder of VIDA, I am developing a venture that transforms olive oil industry by-products into high-value ingredients for cosmetics, animal nutrition and future health-focused applications. My vision is to create a profitable and sustainable business model that converts one of the Mediterranean’s largest agro-industrial waste streams into valuable products with measurable environmental and economic impact.

Over the past years, I have built strong expertise in bioactive compounds, food innovation, technology development and agrifood by-product valorisation through research projects, industry collaborations and European innovation programmes. This has enabled me to identify both the technological opportunity and the market potential behind the circular use of olive oil side streams.

I bring scientific leadership, validated technology, access to raw materials, a strong European network and deep sector knowledge. What I am looking for through TeamUp is a business-oriented co-founder who shares an entrepreneurial mindset and is excited to build a high-impact bioeconomy company from the ground up.

I am particularly interested in connecting with professionals experienced in business development, venture building, commercialisation, fundraising, go-to-market strategy and startup growth.

My ambition is not only to create innovative ingredients but to build a company capable of redefining how agricultural by-products are valued and transformed into sustainable business opportunities.