Unibaio wins $1 million grand prize at Grow-NY 2024

By Blake Jackson

Unibaio, a New York-based company offering innovative solutions for sustainable agriculture, has been crowned the grand prize winner of the sixth annual Grow-NY business competition.

The company received a $1 million prize to further develop its technology, which involves naturally derived particles that enhance the efficiency of pesticides and fertilizers.

The Grow-NY competition, managed by Cornell University's Center for Regional Economic Advancement, aims to foster innovation and economic growth in New York's food, beverage, and agriculture sector.

This year's competition attracted over 312 applicants from around the world, highlighting the growing interest in sustainable agriculture and food technology.

"Congratulations to the Grow-NY winners, and to all of the teams that participated in round six of this unique agriculture-based business accelerator and competition," said Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight. "Grow-NY is rooted in Governor Hochul’s support of startups that are building entrepreneurial ecosystems and continues to nurture economic growth across the rich farming areas of the Finger Lakes, Central and Southern Tier regions.”

In addition to Unibaio, several other promising startups were awarded prizes:

• PureNanoTech: $500,000 for their nanobubble irrigation solution.
• UdderWays: $500,000 for their innovative cow stimulation technology.
• Clean Crop Technologies: $250,000 for their seed decontamination technology.
• ClearLeaf: $250,000 for their eco-friendly fungicides and bactericides.
• For Bitter for Worse: $250,000 for their non-alcoholic cocktail brand.
• Zordi: $250,000 for their autonomous greenhouse technology.

The Grow-NY competition not only provides significant financial support but also offers invaluable mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to a supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem. By investing in these innovative startups, New York State is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable agriculture and food technology.

Photo Credit: grow-ny