Grow-NY®
Grow-NY is a business competition focused on growing an enduring food and agriculture innovation cluster in the Grow-NY region. Funded by Empire State Development, the competition attracts innovative, high-growth food and agtech startups from across the globe and engages them in the region’s rapidly-growing startup ecosystem.
Finalists will pitch their food and agtech business ideas for a chance to win up to $1 million.
Winning companies will be required to execute bold plans to grow jobs, connect with local industry partners, and contribute to a thriving Upstate economy.
Startups
High-growth food and agtech startups from across the globe are encouraged to enter the competition.
Growth
Up to 20 finalists are matched with experienced mentors and receive customized business development trips to the region.
Funding
$3 million will be awarded each year to seven food & agtech startups. The top prize is $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 2026
Economic Impact
Since launching Grow-NY in 2019, finalist companies have:
$100M
Raised over $100M in follow on funding, including investments and SBIR/STTR grants
246
Created 246 jobs in the food & agtech sector