Stories of Technology, Innovation, & Entrepreneurship in the Southeast

A lot more goes into the food chain than many consumers may realize. Behind every burger on the grill is a cattle farmer, an irrigation system, a waste process, a reproductive cycle, data, days in the sun, and a whole lot of technology.

Of course, the agricultural industry expands far beyond animals. For example, our farmers provide us with fresh fruits and vegetables, cotton for our textiles, and more. But, as our population continues to grow, so does the way we produce crops. AgLaunch recognizes the need for innovation in the agricultural space. The organization launched the Cultivate Appalachia Bootcamp to foster innovation and creativity in agriculture to transform and enhance processes from farm to table.

AgLaunch, in collaboration with the Knoxville Entrepreneur Center and regional partners, announced its 2024 Cultivate Appalachia Bootcamp.

1. AgriWater Corp – Bianca Bailey, PhD: Revolutionizing water management in the livestock industry by converting animal
   manure into clean water and valuable resources, streamlining operations and enhancing farm efficiency.
2. Dr. Kyle McLean – Introducing an innovative oral synchronization product for beef producers, enabling the adoption of artificial reproductive technologies without the need for extensive handling facilities.
3. Ebony Tree Farms – Frederick Griffin: Empowering underserved communities through hydroponic food systems, promoting healthy, plant-based nutrition and driving economic growth in rural areas.
4. Feed4Peace – Mustapha Olawuni: Bridging West African farmers with American markets for cosmetics, skincare, and nutrient-dense food products through a digital platform.
5. Happy Tea Company – Mike Minnis: Creating a local supply chain for natural dietary supplements, cultivating and distributing plants, roots, and herbs to meet growing demand.
6. Possum (Radical Shoots) – James Valencia: Digitizing local food chains and transactions with technology developed from the urban farm Radical Shoots, enhancing efficiency and accessibility.
7. Safe Veggies – Dr. Margaret Mmbaga: Enhancing plant resistance to pathogens and boosting crop yield through the identification of beneficial bacterial strains.
8. TN AgriTech Solutions – Dr. Michael Nattrass: Providing farmers with smart farming systems and robust infrastructure for managing Big Data from farm sensors, and optimizing agricultural practices.
9. Victory View Creamery – Julie Gunter: Crafting premium, locally sourced dairy products to meet the demands of discerning consumers.

The program is designed to introduce startup founders to AgLaunch’s Farm-Centric Innovation Model and equip them with the tools and knowledge needed to transform the agricultural sector. Over three intensive days, participants will delve into crucial topics such as business structuring, investor pitching, intellectual property protection, funding avenues, and effective networking strategies.

The cohort begins on June 11, and will conclude with a ‘Demo Day’ on June 13 at the Miller’s Building – Techstars Space, 465 S. Gay Street, Knoxville, TN 37902. The reception starts at 5:00 PM, followed by captivating pitches from the innovative founders.

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