An Edinburgh AgriTech startup has triumphed in a pitching competition which will see it expand in New York.
Crover was one of 20 finalists to compete in the fifth annual Grow-NY Summit this week. While it missed out on the $1 million grand prize, it was one of two businesses to win $500k, with a further four selected to receive $250k.
The other six winning startups are based in North America.
Crover has developed ‘grain swimming’ robotic technology which helps grain storage operators reduce losses and maintain optimum storage conditions by remotely monitoring and maintaining quality.
The competition, administered by Cornell University’s Center for Regional Economic Advancement, awards the funding to companies which then commit to operate in New York’s central, Finger Lakes and Southern Tier regions.
“The winners of this year’s Grow-NY competition represent some of the most innovative and forward-thinking entrepreneurs from around the world that will take our state’s food and agriculture sector to the next level,” said New York Governor Kathy Hochul.
“Through Grow-NY and the Upstate Revitalization Initiative, my administration is doubling down on its commitment to driving economic growth in every part of our state, sparking innovation, and creating the jobs and opportunities that will move New York forward.”
The 20 finalists selected to take part received dedicated mentorship from hand-selected regional business advisors leading up to the Summit and created a detailed business plan to present in the final competition.
The finalists then gave their pitches to a panel of seven judges.
Criteria for judging included the viability of the startup’s business model; the diversity, quality, readiness and completeness of its team; the value that it offers customers; the level of innovation; and the job growth and opportunity potential it can bring to the region.
Nearly 1,000 people registered for the event. You can see the other winners here.