Cargill and Ecolab are supporting a second class of startups through the Techstars Farm to Fork Accelerator recognizing the critical role that innovation plays in creating a safer and more sustainable food system.

“Solving the greatest food and sustainability challenges the world faces today requires partnership and fresh, innovative ideas. These are the two key ingredients of the Techstars Farm to Fork program,” said Justin Kershaw, Cargill CIO. “Having the brightest minds in food and ag tech in Cargill and Ecolab’s backyards provides an amazing opportunity to infuse startup energy into our company, while also helping bring critical solutions to scale. It’s truly a win-win.”

“While we’re here to mentor these startups, we’re also learning from their approach to problem-solving and are excited to help bring their energy to the Twin Cities startup community,” said Katie Peterson, Ecolab marketing vice president and Techstars program lead. “Their passion and innovation, combined with the global scale and reach of Ecolab and Cargill, can help solve the challenges of safely feeding the world’s population.”

The accelerator engages both early stage entrepreneurs and late stage startups that are focused on advancing key aspects of the food system, including food security and safety, ag tech, consumer goods and supply chain management. Startups receive mentor support from Cargill and Ecolab executives and access to the companies’ market expertise, global connections and investment capital.

11 companies were selected to participate in the 2019 Farm to Fork class. Each of the companies will present their projects at Demo Day on October 15, during Twin Cities Startup Week. More information here.