The sixth annual Grow-NY Food and Agriculture Summit is set to take place Nov. 6-7 at the Ithaca Downtown Conference Center, where business leaders and entrepreneurs will discuss strategies to advance sustainability and address global challenges within the food and agriculture sectors.
At the event, 20 startup finalists from across the globe will present their business proposals, focusing on their potential contributions to upstate New York. A total of $3 million in prize money will be awarded, including a $1 million grand prize and several smaller awards, to be announced during a public ceremony at the State Theatre of Ithaca following the summit.
In addition to the startup pitches, the summit will feature a series of panel discussions aimed at exploring innovations in the industry. Organized as part of a symposium, these sessions will engage experts from Cornell University and other leaders in the field to discuss emerging trends and solutions.
Jenn Smith, director of the Grow-NY program, noted the importance of the event for showcasing forward-thinking ideas in the food and agriculture industries. “The Grow-NY summit offers a platform for participants to engage with innovative approaches aimed at strengthening the food system and boosting regional economic growth,” Smith said.
This year’s symposium will include several sessions, each focusing on different challenges and opportunities in the industry. Highlights include:
- Can Food and Ag Tech Save the World? (Nov. 6): This session, led by journalist Laura Reiley and SNØCAP partner Nate Salpeter, will explore the role of startups and collaborations in tackling issues such as food security and environmental sustainability.
- Food Waste Diversion Strategies (Nov. 6): Moderated by Elad Tako from Cornell’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, this panel will examine innovative approaches to reducing food waste, with the goal of building a more sustainable and resilient food system.
- Tackling On-Farm R&D Needs for Net-Zero Dairies by 2050 (Nov. 7): Benjamin Z. Houlton, dean of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, will discuss research and industry partnerships aimed at achieving net-zero dairy production.
- Scaling Sustainable Farming (Nov. 7): This discussion, led by Cornell professor Jenny Kao-Kniffin, will focus on how small-scale sustainable farming practices can be expanded to meet global food demands while minimizing environmental impact.
The summit will also offer opportunities for networking through its Ecosystem Expo, where attendees can connect with startups, economic development agencies, and other stakeholders in the food and agriculture sectors.
The event is open to students, researchers, startups, investors, farmers, and others interested in agricultural technology and sustainability. Tickets are available for in-person attendance, while virtual participation is free. For more details and to register, visit grow-ny.com.
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