Grow-NY is a business competition designed to foster an enduring food and agriculture innovation cluster within the Grow-NY region. With funding from Empire State Development, the initiative attracts high-growth food and agtech startups from around the world, integrating them into the area's expanding startup ecosystem. Finalists present their business concepts for an opportunity to secure funding, with winning companies committing to execute ambitious plans for job growth, collaboration with local industry partners, and contributing to the economic vitality of Upstate New York.
Program Details
• Target Participants: High-growth food and agtech startups from across the globe are invited to apply.
• Growth Opportunities: Up to 20 selected finalists are paired with experienced mentors and receive customized business development trips to the region.
• Funding Structure: A total of $3 million is awarded annually to seven food and agtech startups, with the top prize being $1 million.
Competition Timeline
• Applications Open: March 1, 2026
• Applications Close: May 15, 2026 at 5 p.m. ET
• Finalists Selected: Summer 2026
• Mentoring & Business Trips: Late Summer 2026
• Pitch Competition & Summit (Winners Selected): November 12-13, 2026 in Rochester, NY
Economic Impact
• Follow-on Funding: Since its launch in 2019, finalist companies have raised over $100 million in subsequent funding, including investments and SBIR/STTR grants.
• Job Creation: The program's finalists have created 246 jobs within the food and agtech sector.
By connecting global innovators with regional resources, the Grow-NY competition serves as a key driver for economic development and technological advancement in the food and agriculture industry. The program's structure provides a platform for startups to scale their operations while making a tangible impact on the local economy.