Canandaigua, New York, November 19, 2025
Governor Kathy Hochul announced the winners of the Grow-NY International Food and Agriculture Business Competition, awarding $3 million to innovative startups in food, agriculture, and biotechnology. Brooklyn-based Brekland secured the grand prize of $1 million for its biodegradable foam coatings. The competition attracted 270 applicants from 41 countries and emphasizes the importance of fostering economic growth through entrepreneurial innovation in New York’s food and agriculture sectors.
Canandaigua, New York
Governor Announces Winners of the Grow-NY Competition
Innovative Startups Secure $3 Million to Enhance New York’s Food and Agriculture Sector
In an impressive display of entrepreneurial spirit and innovation, Governor Kathy Hochul revealed the winners of the seventh annual Grow-NY International Food and Agriculture Business Competition, awarding a total of $3 million to seven promising startups in the food, agriculture, and biotechnology sectors. The grand prize of $1 million was awarded to Brekland, a Brooklyn-based company known for developing biodegradable foam coatings for crop protection products. This initiative not only underscores the resilience of small businesses but also highlights the potential for entrepreneurial innovation to drive economic growth in New York.
The Grow-NY competition, managed by Cornell University’s Center for Regional Economic Advancement, seeks to strengthen the food, beverage, and agriculture innovation ecosystem across Central New York, the Finger Lakes, and the Southern Tier regions. This year’s competition attracted 270 applicants from 41 countries, showcasing a notable representation of women founders and underrepresented communities. The event culminated in a two-day summit in Canandaigua, where the 20 finalists presented their business plans to a panel of expert judges, exemplifying the power of collaboration in advancing local economies.
Meet the Winners
In addition to Brekland’s noteworthy achievement, six other winners also received significant funding:
- $500,000 Winners:
- Mothership Materials (New York): Converts agricultural waste into carbon-negative feedstocks, showcasing sustainability in action.
- Seen Nutrition (New York): Develops patented dietary calcium chews produced with local dairy, demonstrating innovation within the local food industry.
- $250,000 Winners:
- Living Ink Technologies (Colorado): Produces sustainable black inks from algae-based biomass, highlighting environmental responsibility.
- Trebe Biotech (Argentina): Uses insect larvae to produce bioproducts for animal health, exemplifying innovative thinking in biotechnology.
- Whipnotic (New York): Creates whipped cream products enhanced by patented nozzle technology, representing a unique market offering.
- ZILA BioWorks (Washington): Converts vegetable oils into recyclable, low-carbon bio-epoxy resins, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability.
Additionally, the “Wegmans Audience Choice” award, which includes a $10,000 prize, was awarded to Finger Foods Farm of Bloomfield, New York, determined through public voting during the summit. This recognition is a testament to the strong community engagement that can enhance local business visibility and support.
Fostering Economic Growth through Innovation
Governor Hochul emphasized the importance of the Grow-NY competition in promoting innovation and economic vitality within New York’s food and agriculture industries. The support provided to these emerging companies serves as a catalyst for regional economic growth and job creation, aligning perfectly with the state’s broader economic development strategies, including CNY Rising, Finger Lakes Forward, and Southern Tier Soaring.
Requirements for Winners
Each winner is required to establish operations within the Grow-NY region for a minimum of one year and must contribute a modest equity stake to Cornell University. This approach ensures a sustainable ecosystem that nurtures future food and agriculture entrepreneurship, further solidifying New York’s position as a leader in these vital sectors.
Engagement and Participation
This year’s competition attracted significant numbers, with 270 applicants from 41 different countries, reflecting a global interest in the innovations coming from New York. The event not only celebrates individual achievements but also signifies a collective commitment to advancing agriculture and food production through entrepreneurial resilience and creativity.
Conclusion
The Grow-NY International Food and Agriculture Business Competition highlights the crucial role that innovation plays in strengthening the economy of New York. By recognizing and investing in promising startups, such efforts pave the way for long-term growth, job creation, and community development. Readers are encouraged to support local businesses and stay engaged with the ongoing conversation surrounding New York’s economic future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Grow-NY International Food and Agriculture Business Competition?
The Grow-NY competition is an annual event administered by Cornell University’s Center for Regional Economic Advancement. It aims to strengthen the food, beverage, and agriculture innovation ecosystem in Central New York, the Finger Lakes, and the Southern Tier regions by awarding prize money to innovative startups in these sectors.
Who were the winners of the seventh annual Grow-NY competition?
The winners included Brekland (Brooklyn, New York) as the grand prize winner, Mothership Materials (New York), Seen Nutrition (New York), Living Ink Technologies (Colorado), Trebe Biotech (Argentina), Whipnotic (New York), and ZILA BioWorks (Washington). Additionally, Finger Foods Farm (Bloomfield, New York) received the “Wegmans Audience Choice” award.
What are the requirements for the winning companies?
Each winning company is required to establish operations in the Grow-NY region for at least one year and provide a modest equity stake to Cornell University to support future food and agriculture entrepreneurship programs.
How many applicants participated in the competition this year?
This year’s competition attracted 270 applicants from 41 countries, with notable participation from women founders and underrepresented communities.
What is the significance of the Grow-NY competition?
The competition plays a crucial role in fostering innovation and economic growth within New York State’s food and agriculture sectors, aligning with regional strategies such as CNY Rising, Finger Lakes Forward, and Southern Tier Soaring.
Key Features of the Grow-NY Competition
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Grand Prize Winner | Brekland (Brooklyn, New York) – $1 million |
| $500,000 Winners | Mothership Materials (New York), Seen Nutrition (New York) |
| $250,000 Winners | Living Ink Technologies (Colorado), Trebe Biotech (Argentina), Whipnotic (New York), ZILA BioWorks (Washington) |
| Audience Choice Award | Finger Foods Farm (Bloomfield, New York) – $10,000 |
| Number of Applicants | 270 from 41 countries |
| Competition Duration | Two-day summit in Canandaigua, New York |
| Regional Strategies Supported | CNY Rising, Finger Lakes Forward, Southern Tier Soaring |
Now Happening on X
- @PRN_TopStories (November 18, 2025): Governor Hochul announces the Round Seven winners of the Grow-NY International Food and Agriculture Business Competition. View on X
- @NYSLabor (November 17, 2025): Governor Hochul announced seven winners of the Grow-NY competition, enhancing New York’s agricultural economy and transforming food and farming. View on X
- @EmpireStateDev (November 14, 2025): Congratulations to the seven global startups awarded $3M at the 2025 Grow-NY competition, boosting the food, beverage, and agriculture ecosystem in Central NY, Finger Lakes, and Southern Tier. View on X
- @drinkubator_ (November 18, 2025): The Grow-NY Summit will award $3 million to global startups redefining food, agriculture, and sustainability, as covered in Food & Beverage Magazine. View on X
- @FLXFWD (November 14, 2025): Governor Hochul announces the Round Seven winners of the Grow-NY International Food and Agriculture Business Competition. View on X
- @CNYRising (November 14, 2025): Governor Hochul announces Round Seven winners of the Grow-NY competition. View on X
- @STSoaring (November 14, 2025): Governor Hochul announces Round Seven winners of the Grow-NY International Food and Agriculture Business Competition. View on X
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