Mar 13, 2024
March 13, 2024
Fresh Field Catalyst an IFPA Technology Accelerator
In a world where technology is constantly evolving, industries across the board are finding innovative ways to adapt and thrive. The produce industry, a cornerstone of global agriculture, is no exception. Enter Fresh Field Catalyst, an IFPA Technology Accelerator poised to revolutionize , growing,distribution, and sustainability within the fresh produce sector; both indoor and outdoor grown.
Unveiling the Program
Fresh Field Catalyst isn't your average accelerator; it's a transformative platform designed to bridge the gap between cutting-edge technology and the vibrant world of fresh produce. The program is tailor-made for startups, scale-ups, and corporations seeking to penetrate the produce market. But what does it entail?
Immersive Learning Experience
The program kicks off with a dynamic one-week immersion program on the U.S. West Coast. Participants embark on field visits and corporate engagements, gaining firsthand insights into the intricacies of the produce industry. It's an unparalleled opportunity to witness the journey from farm to table and understand the challenges and opportunities at every stage.
Ongoing Support and Mentorship
Bi-weekly virtual meet-ups connect participants with industry experts, including growers, shippers, and IFPA staff. These sessions delve into crucial topics such as industry statistics, tech success stories, funding avenues, and overcoming challenges. Additionally, participants gain access to IFPA's proprietary data and analytics, empowering them with valuable insights to drive their ventures forward.
Catalyzing Innovation
Fresh Field Catalyst isn't just about learning; it's about action. Participants receive dedicated support to translate their technology into tangible solutions for the produce sector in the U.S.and global market. Through one-on-one mentoring with IFPA members, they receive personalized guidance and strategic direction to refine their offerings and maximize impact.
Showcasing Innovation
The culmination of the program is an opportunity like no other: a shared exhibit space at the prestigious Global Produce and Floral Show in Atlanta, Georgia in October. . Here, participants can showcase their innovations to industry leaders, forging invaluable connections and paving the way for future collaborations.
Join the Revolution
With applications closing on April 1st, now is the time to seize the opportunity and be part of the Fresh Field Catalyst journey. Whether you're a startup on the brink of breakthrough or a corporation seeking to diversify, this accelerator promises to catalyze innovation and propel your venture to new heights.
Help Feed the Future with Technology
Fresh Field Catalyst aims to address major sector challenges around climate change. IFPA evaluates a wide range of innovative, scalable technologies to commercialize climate-smart production practices for specialty crops. These technologies not only increase productivity in the produce supply chain but also help both indoor and outdoor farms and the supply chain adapt to climate change and reduce emissions.
Who Should Apply?
Companies outside the agriculture and produce industry, particularly those in the late stage of trials or with a product already generating revenue, are encouraged to apply. However, the program is open to applications from all businesses engaged in climate-smart agriculture,both indoor and outdoor grown.Products should be poised for launch, capable of generating revenue, and scalable within the produce market within a two-year timeframe. The funding stage of the company is not a determining factor, as IFPA does not provide funding nor take any equity. However, companies are responsible for funding two trips to California and one trip to Atlanta during the program.
Why Participate?
Connect and engage with C-Level members of the produce industry and learn directly how your technology solutions can work best. Fresh Field Catalyst offers a unique opportunity to collaborate with industry leaders, gain invaluable insights, and accelerate the adoption of your technology within the dynamic and evolving produce sector. Beyond the educational aspect, participants will also have the chance to forge amazing connections with key players in the industry. Networking opportunities abound, providing a platform to establish partnerships, seek potential investors, and build relationships that could propel your venture to new heights. The connections made during the program could be instrumental in the future success and growth of your company, opening doors to new opportunities and collaborations that may have otherwise been inaccessible. Join us in shaping the future of the produce industry while building lasting relationships that could change the trajectory of your business.
Mark Your Calendar
April 1: Applications Close
June 2-7: Immersion Week in California
August 5-6: Demo Day in Salinas, CA
May-October: Bi-Monthly Webinars and 1:1 Mentorship
Oct. 17-19: Global Produce & Floral Show
Join us in shaping the future of the produce industry. Together, let's harness the power of technology to cultivate a greener, more sustainable tomorrow.
2023 Cohort Alumni
Agrology - Alexandria, VA
Arable – San Francisco, CA
Avo Solutions - Chile
Bloomfield – Pittsburgh, PA
BloomX – Israel
FireFly-One – Texas
Four Growers – Pittsburgh, PA
Fyteko - Belgium
Gardin – United Kingdom
Intelligent Growth Solutions –Scotland
Moleaer – California
Spornado – Dublin, Ireland
2023 Fresh Field Catalyst Mentors
Matt Lingard, VP R&D, Bright Farms
Garland Perkins, Sr Manager Innovation and Sustainability, Oppy
Dorn Wenninger, VP of Produce, UNFI
Jim DiMenna, President, Red Sun Farms
Leonard Batti, VP, Taylor Farms
Raina Nelson, CEO, Westfalia Fruit
Eric Morgan, VP of Environmental Science & Resources, Braga Fresh
Miles Kohl, Chairman of Northwest Hort Association
Dan Kurdys, Director of Horticulture and Seed Growth, Bayer
Dwight Ferguson, CEO, California Agricultural Leadership
Nikki Cossio, CEO, Measure to Improve
Joe Barsi, President, Cal Giant