A major state-backed startup competition is now accepting applications, offering millions in funding to food and agriculture businesses willing to put down roots in Upstate New York.
Empire State Development announced the opening of the eighth round of the Grow-NY competition, which will award a total of $3 million to startups focused on innovation in food systems and agriculture.
Applications are open through May 15, with up to 20 finalists selected from around the world to compete for prize funding. Winners must commit to establishing operations and delivering economic impact across a 22-county region that includes the Finger Lakes, Central New York and the Southern Tier.
Seven companies will ultimately receive funding, including a $1 million grand prize, two $500,000 awards and four $250,000 prizes.
Since launching in 2019, the competition has attracted global attention and produced measurable results. Forty-nine winning companies have collectively created hundreds of jobs and secured more than $127 million in follow-on investment, with most continuing to operate in the region.
Finalists will also take part in a business accelerator program, gaining mentorship, industry connections and access to potential investors before presenting their ideas in a live pitch competition later this year.
Organizers are encouraging applications from startups working across a range of sectors, including agricultural production, food processing and distribution, ag technology, climate resilience and workforce development.
The competition continues to draw a diverse pool of applicants. In its most recent round, nearly half of applicants included a female founder, while a majority included founders from historically underinvested backgrounds.
Officials say the region’s strong agricultural base — representing a significant share of New York’s farms — combined with research institutions and natural resources, positions it as a hub for innovation in food and agriculture.
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