By Blake Jackson
Two Ontario-based dairy startups, SomaDetect and Cattle Scan, have emerged victorious in the prestigious Grow-NY Food & Agriculture Competition, securing a combined $750,000 in funding and a chance to revolutionize the New York dairy industry.
SomaDetect, awarded $500,000, offers a cutting-edge sensor and software system that provides real-time milk data on individual cows, streamlining farm management decisions. Their technology analyzes key quality indicators like fat, protein, and cell counts, enabling early detection of mastitis and improving herd health. CEO Bethany Desphande emphasizes the potential for reducing antibiotic use and optimizing breeding protocols, especially on large farms.
Cattle Scan, the recipient of $250,000, focuses on internal monitoring. Their bolus sensor tracks cow biometrics like activity, rumination, and temperature, providing insights into illness, heat stress, water intake, and calving. Co-founder Denis Tokarev highlights the bolus's seamless integration with existing farm management systems and its role in boosting production efficiency.
Both companies see this victory as a springboard for expansion into New York, the fifth largest dairy producer in the US. SomaDetect plans to engage with regional farmers and leverage the state's diverse vendor network for national growth. Cattle Scan, already partnering with a major dairy cooperative, aims to establish New York as a launchpad for nationwide operations.
Beyond the winners, the competition showcased 20 finalists who received valuable mentorship and networking opportunities. This annual event, organized by Cornell University, aims to cultivate a vibrant food and agriculture innovation cluster in Central New York.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-digitalvision
Categories: New York, Livestock, Dairy Cattle