By Jamie Martin
The 2026 Ag Innovation Challenge will bring four leading agricultural startups to the American Farm Bureau Convention in Anaheim, California on January 11. The event highlights new ideas designed to improve farm operations, protect crops and animals, and strengthen food systems.
The Challenge has been running for twelve years and provides a platform for small agricultural businesses to connect with investors and industry leaders. The overall winner will receive a $100,000 prize, while the runner-up will receive $25,000.
This year’s finalists were selected after a competitive virtual pitching round that included ten semifinalist teams. Each finalist offers unique solutions to key agricultural challenges.
CryoBio, based in New York, is developing a natural frost protection treatment. The company’s solution helps lower freezing damage by strengthening plant resistance. This technology aims to protect crops and reduce food loss caused by cold weather.
FarmMind from Louisiana has created a digital platform that combines farm records, maps, weather data, and regulatory tools into one system. Using artificial intelligence, the platform provides farmers with easy access to information, helping them save time, and improve decision making.
KiposTech from Pennsylvania focuses on poultry barns and animal health. Its air cleaning technology removes harmful particles, reduces ammonia, and lowers the risk of airborne disease. Monitoring systems provide real-time data to help farmers manage barn conditions.
Vivid Machines from Washington develop artificial intelligence tools for fruit growers. The company’s system gathers plant-level information to guide pruning, spraying, and harvest timing. The technology is already used in apples and wine grapes and is expanding into other fruit crops.
The Ag Innovation Challenge is supported by Farm Credit, Bayer, John Deere, Farm Bureau Bank, Farm Bureau Financial Services, and T-Mobile. Their support helps encourage innovation and strengthen the future of agriculture.
Photo Credit: american-farm-bureau-federation
Categories: National