Episode Title: Grow-NY with Jenn Smith
Host: Adam Peek
Guest: Jenn Smith, Director of Food and Ag Innovation Programs at Cornell University and Director of Grow-NY
Summary: In this episode, Adam sits down with the multi-titled Jenn Smith to talk about all things food, agriculture, and innovation in Upstate New York. Jenn dives into the Grow-NY competition, a $3 million business competition that draws startups from around the world to compete for top prizes—including a whopping $1 million! They chat about the importance of sustainability, the circular economy, and how even packaging companies can get in on the action. Plus, find out why Adam has been rocking rope sandals for 30 years!
Key Takeaways:
What is Grow-NY? A global business competition focused on food and agriculture innovation, funded by New York State.
The Prizes: A $1 million grand prize, two $500k prizes, and four $250k prizes. It’s an equity investment, not just a grant!
Sustainability Matters: Grow-NY looks for startups that think holistically about sustainability—from soil science to innovative packaging solutions like Living Ink‘s algae-based black ink.
Eligibility: Early-stage startups (7 years or fewer in operation) that are willing to grow their business and contribute to the Upstate New York economy.
The Deadline: Applications are due by May 15th!
Links:
Grow-NY Website: grow-ny.com
Adam’s LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/adampeek
Adam’s TikTok: @thelabelking
Time Stamps:
0:00 - Introduction & Jenn’s “Longest Title Ever”
5:23 - The Ren Fair & Adam’s 30-Year-Old Rope Sandals
8:20 - Jenn’s Role at Cornell & Extension Agents
10:33 - Holistic Sustainability in Packaging & Farming
13:40 - The History & Mission of Grow-NY
16:20 - Past Winners: Living Ink & Algae-Based Ink
18:40 - Eligibility & Application Process
21:20 - What Does “Upstate” New York Actually Mean?
22:40 - Final Wrap-Up & Application Deadline
