Grow-NY competition invites applications from food and ag startups

High-growth food, beverage and ag tech startups can now apply for the eighth round of the Grow-NYbusiness competition.

Grow-NY aims to stimulate upstate New York's agricultural economy by supporting innovative ventures poised for regional impact. Each year, up to 20 finalists compete for $3 million in total prize funding, including a $1 million grand prize. Winners must commit to making a positive impact in the Grow-NY region of the Finger Lakes, Central New York and the Southern Tier.

"The Grow-NY accelerator continues to be instrumental in attracting cutting-edge agribusiness companies from around the world to New York state," said Hope Knight, Empire State Developmentpresident, CEO and commissioner. "The first seven competitions have spurred private investment in the three targeted regions, and the eighth round will build on those successes, as the dynamic innovations and ideas from each round's winners support new economic growth throughout upstate."

Since 2019, Grow-NY's 49 winning companies have created hundreds of jobs and secured more than $127 million in follow-on funding. Forty of those companies remain operational in the region, outperforming national startup survival averages and demonstrating regional staying power.

"From farming to food production, New York is an innovative, world-class leader in agriculture," said Richard Ball, commissioner of the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets. "The Grow-NY competition has consistently given many cutting-edge, diverse food businesses from around the world not only an opportunity to showcase their work, but also a place to call home right here in New York."

Home to more than 40% of New York state's farms, the Grow-NY region also features world-class research institutions, abundant freshwater resources and a deeply rooted agricultural heritage. Its education and business resources provide critical infrastructure and expertise to startups looking to scale their businesses.

"Grow-NY and our bountiful region have become a launchpad for agricultural companies evaluating where to grow next," said Grow-NY program director Jenn Smith. "Our applicants are developing solutions for challenges that didn't even exist five years ago. With the support of our mentors, investors and regional partners, we are helping New York state become one of the most strategic agrifood innovation corridors in the world."

In its first seven rounds, the competition attracted more than 1,800 applications from 44 states and 95 countries. In 2025, 46% of applicants included a female founder, and 74% included a founder from a historically underinvested background, reflecting the competition's role in broadening access to innovation and capital.

Applications close at 5 p.m. on May 15. Startups focused on food and agriculture production, processing, distribution, technology, climate resilience, workforce solutions and related sectors are encouraged to apply.

Grow-NY is funded by Empire State Development through its Upstate Revitalization Initiative and administered by Cornell's Center for Regional Economic Advancement.

Bridget Hagen is the associate manager for innovation communications for Cornell Research and Innovation.