About 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 agriculture startups from across the globe and engages them in the region’s rapidly-growing startup ecosystem.

Finalists pitch their business ideas for a chance to win up to $1 million. 

Immerse Yourself in Food & Ag Innovation

The 2026 Grow-NY Food & Ag Summit is a two-day event showcasing food and ag innovations that have the power to change the path of our industry. The event brings together the top startups from around the globe to pitch their companies and world-class researchers, experts, and partners to discuss and share insight on the latest trends and innovations. 

The event is designed for startups, companies, investors, resource providers, researchers, entrepreneurs, farmers, and students.

The Grow-NY Food & Ag Summit

Network with an array of startups, incubators, economic development agencies, small business partners, and other organizations presenting their services and support.

20 live finalist pitches with questions from a panel of judges recognized nationally for their thought leadership

Thematic networking roundtables hosted by thought leaders in the region’s dynamic ecosystem, addressing topics new and existing food and ag businesses need to know about scaling their businesses

A showcase of the 20 Grow-NY finalists, including product testing, demonstrations, and networking with top food and ag entrepreneurs

Networking Roundtables

Returning to this year's Grow-NY Summit, we're elevating the networking experience with networking roundtable discussions. Breakfast roundtables are high-octane networking sessions that will foster high-impact connections between food and ag entrepreneurs and the organizations that support them. A regional thought leader will host each roundtable, focusing on topics like funding, operations, and opportunities in New York State.

Attendees will select their preferred roundtable during registration and join their chosen discussion over breakfast during the Summit. Each 45-minute session offers an opportunity to dive deeper into key themes shaping food and agriculture innovation, while engaging directly with peers, resource providers, and ecosystem leaders.

2026 Finalists

20 food and ag startups from around the globe were selected to compete in this year’s Grow-NY competition for a total of $3 million. View the finalists.

Contact the Grow-NY team with questions.