Syngenta, Radicle Growth launch protein challenge

Radicle Growth, an acceleration fund, and Syngenta, an agriculture company helping to improve global food security, have launched The Radicle Protein Challenge by Syngenta. Together, Radicle and Syngenta will invest $1.25 million in two companies with novel solutions to support the future of protein that are solving challenges spanning from plant-based ag to the regenerative side of agriculture.

Radicle and Syngenta are seeking entrepreneurs representing companies in all stages from around the world to apply for the $1.25 million investment—$1 million for the challenge winner and $250,000 for the second-place winner—to accelerate the growth of their technologies. Applications are open through May 29, 2020. The winners will also have access to Radicle and Syngenta’s broad agriculture expertise and global agtech networks to advance and promote their technology.

“Innovative protein sources are increasingly important for a growing population. We are excited to be collaborating with Radicle and entrepreneurs from around the world to accelerate innovation, and I am looking forward to seeing lots of creative ideas,” said Erik Fyrwald, CEO, Syngenta, in a press release. “Our mission at Syngenta of helping farmers to make the best use of available resources and grow the crops we need in an environmentally friendly and healthy way includes providing them with the best products, technologies, and agronomic advice.”

After entries close, several months of due diligence work will begin, and four to six finalists will be identified from the pool of applicants. The finalists will participate in a pitch-day competition this fall. Each company will have the opportunity to present to a leading panel of judges, including Erik Fyrwald, who will deliberate and select the two winners.