Apply Now - Grow-NY Offers $3M to Food and Ag Startups

By Blake Jackson

Applications for the seventh annual Grow-NY food and agriculture business competition are now open, offering high-growth startups the chance to win a share of $3 million in prize money. The deadline for applications is May 15th.

Grow-NY supports the burgeoning agrifood industry in central New York, the Finger Lakes, and the Southern Tier. Since 2019, the competition has received applications from over 1,800 businesses globally.

“The Grow-NY accelerator has been instrumental in attracting cutting-edge agribusiness companies from around the world and spurring private investment in the three targeted regions,” said Hope Knight, president, CEO and commissioner of Empire State Development. “The seventh round will build on the foundational success of previous competition winners, whose dynamic innovations and ideas are generating economic growth throughout upstate.”

The competition has provided $18 million in funding to 42 winners, along with mentorship and networking opportunities.

Winners commit to making a positive impact on the region by creating jobs and fostering economic growth. Prizes include a $1 million top prize, two $500,000 awards, and four $250,000 awards.

“Cornell CALS is thrilled to continue our collaboration with Grow-NY, showcasing the crucial synergy between agriculture and economic development in our region and beyond," said Benjamin Z. Houlton, Dean of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Cornell University.

“As New York’s land-grant institution, we are dedicated to nurturing innovation and disseminating knowledge that propels both agricultural progress and economic vitality. By championing forward-thinking entrepreneurs and sustainable practices, we strive to unlock new opportunities and fortify the economic resilience of our outstanding growers, producers and communities.”

Up to 20 finalists will be chosen in August to participate in a business development phase. In November, they will pitch their business plans at the Grow-NY Food and Agriculture Summit in Canandaigua, New York.

“We’re thrilled to see Grow-NY startups validated by their customers, industry leaders and investors,” said Jenn Smith, Grow-NY program director. “We see spectacular outcomes when startups join in where upstate New York’s agrifood, innovation and economic development communities converge, and we’re looking forward to seeing what this year’s application pool offers the competition.”

For registration visit, https://growny2025.skild.com/login

Photo Credit: grow-ny