Grow-NY Food and Agriculture Startup Competition 2026

About

A global business competition designed to attract high-growth startups in the food and agriculture sector, offering substantial funding, mentorship, and business development support to enhance their growth and integration into the Upstate economy.

Benefits

• 💰Financial Awards
  Annual funding awards totaling $3 million, including a $1 million top prize.
• 🎓Mentorship Program
  Access to experienced mentors who provide guidance and support.
• 🏢Business Development Trips
  Customized trips to the region to strengthen growth strategies and local connections.
• 🌐Network Access
  Integration into the region’s expanding startup ecosystem and connections with local industry partners.
• 📈Job Creation
  Winning companies are required to implement plans that create jobs and contribute to the local economy.

Eligibility Criteria

• Open to startups worldwide in the food and agriculture sector
• Must be a registered business entity such as a corporation or LLC
• Must meet at least two qualifying criteria, including being less than seven years old or having a product in testing
• Must have a leadership team focused on commercialization and profitability
• Must have a scalable business model

Participation Commitments

• Must pitch business ideas at the final event for a chance to win funding
• Must implement plans to create jobs and collaborate with local industry partners
• Participation in mentorship and business development activities is required
• Finalists must be prepared to engage with the local startup ecosystem

Target Region

Open to startups worldwide, focusing on the Grow-NY region

Target Sector

Food and Agriculture innovation