Applications are now open for agrifoodtech founders to join the fifth cohort of the AgFunder GROW Impact Accelerator

Applications are now open for agrifoodtech founders to join the fifth cohort of the AgFunder GROW Impact Accelerator.

[Disclosure: AgFunder is the parent company of AgFunderNews.]

Launched in 2019, the global accelerator invests in founders with innovative technologies across climate impact, human and planetary health, waste mitigation, and financial inclusion.

As part of GROW’s 2024 program, which kicks off in April, 10 founders will receive a $100,000 cash investment from AgFunder, introductions to its global network of co-investors, and mentorship and support from Singapore-based agrifoodtech accelerator, GROW, over a five-month period.

The hybrid program combines virtual components that support founders to grow from their home markets and in-person components connecting entrepreneurs to the vibrant Singapore agrifoodtech ecosystem.

Founders will receive tailored business coaching and mentorship from experienced industry practitioners, plugging into GROW’s agrifood network with the goal of scaling-up for global growth.

What is the GROW Impact Accelerator looking for?

Applicants must have strong technological foundations, a proven prototype with product-market fit, and operate in at least one market. Ideal candidates should demonstrate a proven business model with scalable solutions delivering tangible environmental or social impact.

GROW is particularly interested in hearing from startups innovating in areas including, but not limited to:

• Artificial Intelligence and digital transformation
• Carbon market solutions
• Food production optimization and waste valorization
• Food science, functional ingredients production and bioprocess technologies
• Precision agriculture and aquaculture technologies
• Sustainable biomaterials (including packaging)

“It’s very hard to find VCs and programs that understand both ag and tech,” said Cohort 4 alumnus Huyen Tran from DHF Platforms. “AgFunder’s GROW’s accelerator program was a perfect fit because they really understood what we needed in order to connect us to the right people and places to scale our business. Their investment helped us to get traction and achieve what we have today.”

John Friedman, Asia Director of AgFunder, added: “2024 is going to be an exciting year for the industry with increased attention on food systems as a critical piece in solving the world’s climate challenge. The stakes are only getting higher; fortunately, we’re seeing the hard work of our early alumni companies bearing fruit across the different corners of the globe. We encourage agrifoodtech startups to apply to the program and join our movement to lead a food system renaissance!”

In 2023, a record 600 companies from over 80 countries competed for spots in the program.

Notable alumni include Amatera (France), LYRO Robotics (Australia), Mayani (the Philippines), Future Fields (Canada), Intello Labs (India), Tepbac (Vietnam), Green Rebel Foods (Indonesia), 3Bee (Italy), and OlsAro (Sweden).

Applications for Cohort 5 are now open (click here for more details and to apply) and will close on February 25, 2024.

🎥 What makes a great pitch? What raises alarm bells? Agrifoodtech investors weigh in…