Grow-NY Food & Ag Business Competition

High-growth food and agriculture startups from across the globe can compete to win up to $1 million

Grow-NY is an unprecedented food and agriculture business competition funded by Empire State Development that identifies, supports, and funds the top food, beverage, and agriculture innovations across the globe. Finalists receive dedicated mentorship and business development support and compete for a $1 million top prize.

The Grow-NY Region

Winning companies commit to making a positive impact in the growing startup hub located in New York state’s Finger Lakes, Central NY, and Southern Tier regions. Learn more about the Grow-NY Region.

Annual Prize Awards

Each year, Grow-NY will award $3 million in prize money to seven winners,
all payable in stages based on business milestones.

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One grand prize
of $1 million

Grow-NY Food and Agriculture Competition prizes

Two $500,000 prizes

Grow-NY Food and Agriculture Competition Awards

Four $250,000 prizes

Competition Benefits & Support

All finalists (up to 20 companies) receive:

Dedicated support and coaching from an experienced mentor

Additional pitch training to hone your live pitch for the judges 

An expenses paid three-day business development trip to the region

Up to two team members from finalist teams will travel to the region for networking introductions, business tours with potential partners, and valuable appointments

Competition Timeline

Grow-NY Applications Open

Applications Open

March 1, 2026

Grow-NY applications closed

Applications Close

May 15, 2026

Grow-NY Competition Teams Selected

Finalists Selected

Summer 2026

Grow-NY Pitch Competition

Mentoring & Business Trips

Starting Late Summer 2026

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Pitch Competition & Summit

(Winners Selected)

November 12-13, 2026

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Find out more

Check out our Competition Details page to learn more about eligibility, judging criteria, terms & conditions, and more.

See competition details