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Early Stage Cultivator Grant Program

Ag Startup Engine was founded to support early-stage ag-tech entrepreneurs and drive innovation in Iowa and beyond. We know that reaching the point where you're ready for outside investment can take time, and sometimes, you need a little help along the way. While we’re always open to mentoring and advising early-stage founders, we recognize that a bit of capital can make a big difference in your journey.

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That’s where the Cultivator Grant Program comes in. Funded by Ag Startup Engine, this program is designed to empower agriculture and food startups with grants of up to $2,000, giving you the boost needed to move your ideas forward.

 

Imagine having the resources to create a prototype that brings your solution to life or test out assumptions with customers to refine your vision. The Cultivator Grant enables exactly that. And the best part? This funding is non-dilutive, so you retain 100% ownership of your idea.

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Application

FAQ: 

​Who Can Apply?

  • Founders must be based in the U.S. but emphasis will be placed on supporting founders based in Iowa

  • An established entity (Corporation or LLC) or plans to establish one

  • You must have an idea that addresses a problem within the agriculture or food sector

 

What types of startups will receive funding?

  • You must meet the applicant criteria. Outside of that we are looking to support startups that can clearly articulate what the funding will be used for and what milestones they will accomplish. Examples could include but are not limited to using the funding to build a prototype to test if the technology works, or running a pilot with a set number of customers.

 

Does Ag Startup Engine take any ownership of my company through this grant program?

  • No. This funding is non-dilutive, so you retain 100% ownership of your idea

                      
What is the application process and timeline?

  • Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Fill out the application below and we will be in touch with you on next steps

 

Do I have to apply for the entire amount?

  • Only apply for the amount you need. If you only need $500, only apply for $500. Grants will be awarded up to $2000

 

Are there any other benefits that come from participating in this grant program?

  • If you are awarded a grant you will have access to the broader Ag Startup Engine Network. This includes network opportunities with our founders, investors (including farmers and producers), mentoring from the Ag Startup Engine team and various events we host

 

What are the requirements post receiving the grant?

  • Once you have completed your project we ask that you provide a short presentation to our group sharing what you learned and accomplished with the grant funding

 

Who do I contact if I have other questions?

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