Grow-NY selects startup finalists at livestreamed event

Grow-NY selects startup finalists at livestreamed event

Grow-NY, a food and agriculture business competition, selected 20 finalists from more than 260 startups and entrepreneurs that applied from around the globe, for the chance to win a $1 million top prize and $2 million in other prizes.

Jenn Smith, director of Grow-NY, and Brian Bauer, director of competitions at Cornell University’s Center for Regional Economic Advancement, co-hosted the virtual event announcement on Sept. 16.

“When we look at the applications, we’re seeing applicants from more than 27 countries and 26 states in the United States,” Smith said.

Finalists included:

  • AgTrace, Florianopolis, Brazil: Traceability that incorporates farming information and captures, stores and processes data while connecting stakeholders;
  • Halomine, Ithaca, N.Y: Anti-microbial product developer for food safety;
  • Leep Foods, Rochester, N.Y.: Organic mushroom grower using regenerative soil methods on nutrient-enriched American hardwoods; 
  • PureSpace, Busan, South Korea: Service to extend shelf-life by decomposing ethylene gas, airborne mold and viruses; and
  • Ripe.io, New York, N.Y.: Platform to access transparent and reliable information on the origin, journey and quality of food.

“We had some really strong business contenders this year. The competition was fierce,” Smith said.

A team of judges chose the finalists using these criteria:

  • Viability of commercialization and the business model;
  • Customer value;
  • Food and agriculture innovation;
  • Potential for regional job creation; and
  • Quality and completeness of the team and readiness to deliver.

The finalists will move on to the next round, a live business pitch. 

They will be paired with a mentor to refine their business models and get to know the region and explore partnerships and opportunities, Bauer said.

“By supporting startups with their next level of growth, this competition is investing in businesses that will provide quality jobs and build a network innovation in our region,” Smith said.

The pitch competition will be presented at the virtual Grow-NY Food and Ag Summit, Nov. 17-18, which is free this year.

Visit Grow-NY.com to register or learn more.

Related news:

Food and ag startups can apply now for 2020 Grow-NY

No PLUs necessary with this retail check-out system

NY Gov. Andrew Cuomo announces 18 finalists in Grow-NY contest

 

Latest News

How new research could prevent frost damage in orchards
How new research could prevent frost damage in orchards

In this podcast episode, Advanced Agriscience's Collin Juurakko shares interesting discoveries he's made about how frost crystals form and how that lead to a potential solution for tree-fruit growers across the globe.

Cool Creations previews new products at AWG show
Cool Creations previews new products at AWG show

North Kansas City, Mo.-based Cool Creations LLC had two new products to show off at the Associated Wholesale Grocers' seventh annual Innovation Showcase, March 25-26.

Dole, Fresh Express nix sale of fresh vegetables division
Dole, Fresh Express nix sale of fresh vegetables division

Following Department of Justice concerns about competition in the packaged salad market, the companies have abandoned the proposed $308 million deal.

Fresh Del Monte named to most trusted companies list
Fresh Del Monte named to most trusted companies list

Fresh Del Monte is among the honorees on the Most Trustworthy Companies in America 2024 list, recognized for a commitment to quality, sustainability and innovation in fresh produce.

Improved conditions for West Mexico produce may arrive with spring
Improved conditions for West Mexico produce may arrive with spring

West Mexico growers faced a tough fall/winter season, but distributors believe things are looking up for spring with increased supplies and more reasonable prices.

What’s next for retail foodservice: Retailers dish up insights in free webinar
What’s next for retail foodservice: Retailers dish up insights in free webinar

"Impact Retail Foodservice 2024" will gather industry experts to discuss opportunities and challenges, as well as share insights for driving growth in the year ahead in one of the hottest departments in grocery.