Western Growers opens ag tech competition

Western Growers (WG) officially launched the second annual Innovation Arena Competition, which will offer six agtech start-up companies an opportunity to compete for two winning prizes.

Applications are now open and will be accepted until Sept. 29, at 5 p.m. To participate, applicants must be qualified start-up companies that are innovating agtech solutions to solve issues such as labor availability, water scarcity, water quality, food safety, planning/optimization, big data and compliance cost.

Applicants who are chosen will compete during the Innovation Arena at the 91st Western Growers Annual Meeting on Nov. 8, in Hawaii. WG will provide complimentary registration ($1,099 value), two nights lodging at the Grand Hyatt Kauai and $1,000 for travel expenses for one individual from each selected company.

Two winners will receive a complimentary one-year membership with Western Growers and a coveted spot in the WG Center for Innovation & Technology in Salinas, California. Benefits include networking opportunities with fresh produce companies; exposure to agricultural-related organizations throughout California, Arizona and Colorado; training and mentorship from industry professionals, including legal, HR, insurance, financial and communications experts; and more.

For full details about the competition, download the Request for Proposal. All interested applicants can apply at WG’s Innovation Arena website.