355. Claudia Nari on Inari’s unique advantage + gene editing as a new paradigm in agbioscience

Agbioscience

26:28

Squid Game is back—and this time, the knives are out. In the thrilling Season 3 premiere, Player 456 is spiraling and a brutal round of hide-and-seek forces players to kill or be killed. Hosts Phil Yu and Kiera Please break down Gi-hun’s descent into vengeance, Guard 011’s daring betrayal of the Game, and the shocking moment players are forced to choose between murdering their friends… or dying. Then, Carlos Juico and Gavin Ruta from the Jumpers Jump podcast join us to unpack their wild theories for the season. Plus, Phil and Kiera face off in a high-stakes round of “Hot Sweet Potato.” SPOILER ALERT! Make sure you watch Squid Game Season 3 Episode 1 before listening on. Play one last time. IG - @SquidGameNetflix X (f.k.a. Twitter) - @SquidGame Check out more from Phil Yu @angryasianman , Kiera Please @kieraplease and the Jumpers Jump podcast Listen to more from Netflix Podcasts . Squid Game: The Official Podcast is produced by Netflix and The Mash-Up Americans.…

about a year ago 18:06

MP3•Episode home

From speed to precision, Claudia lays out the differentiation of gene editing to other types of plant breeding
Crops of focus for Inari right now and stresses they’re focused on to enable farmer success
The company’s recent venture capital raise, their value proposition and educating investors
Inari’s unique advantage (knowing what to do, having the tools to do it and being able to do those at the same time)
The status of field trials and what commercialization will look like for Inari
Biggest problems in-field to be solved through gene editing – from yield to resource efficiencies
Regulatory hurdles and Claudia’s perspective on the acceptance of gene editing as a technology
When will Inari technology be in customer fields? And what’s next?

374 episodes

Agbioscience

355. Claudia Nari on Inari’s unique advantage + gene editing as a new paradigm in agbioscience

Agbioscience

45 subscribers

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

From speed to precision, Claudia lays out the differentiation of gene editing to other types of plant breeding
Crops of focus for Inari right now and stresses they’re focused on to enable farmer success
The company’s recent venture capital raise, their value proposition and educating investors
Inari’s unique advantage (knowing what to do, having the tools to do it and being able to do those at the same time)
The status of field trials and what commercialization will look like for Inari
Biggest problems in-field to be solved through gene editing – from yield to resource efficiencies
Regulatory hurdles and Claudia’s perspective on the acceptance of gene editing as a technology
When will Inari technology be in customer fields? And what’s next?

374 episodes

All episodes

Agbioscience

1
376. Vivayic’s Blaze Currie on agbioscience’s talent disparity, how we got here + preparing for next generation talent + leadership 19:17

3 days ago19:17

19:17

The words talent and shortage come packaged together in nearly every sentence across almost every industry these days. It's a widespread challenge that raises a bigger question for agbioscience companies. Do our hurdles look like the same as other industries? If not, what do we do next? This week, we are joined by Vivayic’s Agriculture Practice Lead, Blaze Currie. We get into: His high-level take on the current market overview for talent relative to the workforce needs of other industries The headwinds facing the agbioscience industry that are uniquely their own when it comes to talent and leadership A history lesson on how agbioscience got here – and the generational waves that have created the talent disparity we are facing today How companies will need to adapt in the future to fill their talent needs Executive and senior leadership positions aging out of the workforce, how those positions will need to be developed and what organizations need to do today to prepare for tomorrow How Blaze sees the next 10-15 years of talent evolution shaking out in agbioscience – and it looks a lot different than is has in the past What’s ahead for Vivayic…

Agbioscience

1
375. Bay State Milling’s Ed Fish on food is health, innovating “in the middle” + connecting food to agriculture 29:43

11 days ago29:43

29:43

The food ingredients market is expected to grow to $97 billion by 2029. That's an annual growth rate of just over 6.5%. Central to that growth is the voice of the consumer seeking options to improve their health and ingredients that contribute to their overall wellness. One company has been innovating in this space for generations. Ed Fish, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Varietal Solutions at Bay State Milling, joins guest host Jarrod Sutton from Purdue DIAL Ventures to discuss the market's rapid change -- from consumer demands to regulatory pressures and beyond. We get into: The overall ingredients market and the perspective on how consumer health is creating new opportunities Who Bay State Milling aims to serve through innovation, the company’s 125-year family-owned legacy and its growing portfolio Unique differentiation, being nimble and knowing how to connect food to agriculture Leveraging their Rothwell Grain Essential Center to work with customers on refining and troubleshooting products – and how their customers participate in the process New products being rolled out by Bay State Milling in the food is health space, including HealthSense™ (a high-fiber wheat flour) and SowNaked Oats™ (a higher-protein oat) How the relationships work for Bay State Milling across the value chain – farmers to food companies How Ed believes the winners of tomorrow are innovating today What’s ahead for Bay State Milling…

Agbioscience

1
374. BW Fusion’s Dr. Tanya Soule on biological innovation + the importance of strategic partnerships to accelerate scientific discovery 22:43

18 days ago22:43

22:43

The market for ag biologicals is projected to grow significantly according to Grandview Research – making the leap from $11B market in 2024 to a $16.8B in 2030. One Indiana company has recently created a strategic alliance to drive biological innovation at every stage of the crop nutrition cycle. Dr. Tanya Soule, Vice President of Microbiology at BW Fusion, joins us to talk science, producers and the farm. We get into: What biologicals are and how they benefit farmers How they work in tandem with other fertilizers and modes of crop protection to drive yield BW Fusion’s approach to scientific discovery and innovation How the company got into the agbioscience industry – it wasn’t its first vertical Bain Capital Double Impact’s support that led to the strategic alliance between BW Fusion, Biodyne USA and Agronomy 365 and what that has allowed them to do from an innovation perspective The farmers’ role in advancing innovation at BW Fusion Why Tanya, a career academic, made the switch to working with the BW Fusion team and coming to the agbiosciences Her advice for young scientists What’s ahead for BW Fusion…

Agbioscience

1
373. Libby Fritz recaps June, the AgriNovus CEO search, Velocity Demo Day + what's ahead 22:08

24 days ago22:08

22:08

The month of June has passed -- and it was a busy one! AgriNovus Vice President, Libby Fritz, joins Cayla Chiddister in the studio to talk through a number of exciting things, including what's to come for the podcast with Mitch's departure from AgriNovus. Hint: we aren't going anywhere! We get into: Updates to what you can expect to hear and see on the podcast moving forward! What's going on with the CEO search -- and how you can apply to be our next fearless leader Velocity Demo Day, the three winners and our power outage networking party; watch our Directionally Speaking video series here Field Atlas Company Tours are coming 8/14-8/15 at Corteva and Ingredion; if you know a college student interested in learning more about agbioscience, have them apply by 7/13! Register here . Community of Practice webinar on AI in Agriculture coming on 7/23; Register here . Quadrant is back on 8/20 and we are talking leadership in action! Register here .…

Agbioscience

1
372. Mitch Frazier on 5 years of AgriNovus, the power of a small team + an Agbioscience farewell 28:25

25 days ago28:25

28:25

For over 230 episodes of Agbioscience, Mitch Frazier has helped share the stories of leaders and innovators across food, animal health, plant science, agtech and agriculture. One story we’ve not told, though, is that of the storyteller, himself. Today we close a chapter on this podcast and with all love, turn our pages forward to what lies next. But make no mistake, this is not a chapter we will soon forget. For his final time on Agbioscience, Mitch Frazier joins us. We get into: A look back at the last five years of agbioscience innovation Mitch’s vision as a leader and why he chose growth as a focus for AgriNovus The importance of creating the conditions for industry to grow Seizing the opportunity – and which of those opportunities agbioscience should be looking to in the years to come The power of a small team to drive outcomes His favorite part about hosting more than 230 episodes of the podcast Learning from some of Indiana’s best and bright leaders while in agbioscience – and what lessons he plans to take with him His favorite down to business – and unserious – moments at AgriNovus Mitch’s personal signoff on Agbioscience…

Agbioscience

1
371. Weaver Popcorn Manufacturing’s Jason Kashman on emerging trends in food + getting ahead of market demands 18:19

5 weeks ago18:19

18:19

The U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis reports that the food ag industry contributes roughly 1.5 trillion to the country’s GDP – that's a 5.5% share. It’s a market that continues to evolve as many factors – from consumers to regulatory challenges – create new opportunities for innovation and new products. This week we are joined by Weaver Popcorn Manufacturing CEO, Jason Kashman, to share perspective on food, health and what’s ahead. We dive into: The overall landscape in the food manufacturing market, what Jason is seeing and what’s driving growth for brands Popcorn is a commodity and a finished good – are the challenges and turbulence the same on both sides of the coin? Weaver Popcorn Manufacturing’s history, how it became its own entity in 2019 and their overall innovation portfolio The massive footprint that is Weaver Popcorn – from grocery brands to private label Jason’s take on emerging trends on snack foods and where popcorn fits in the market How food has changed over the last decade, including difficulty for startup innovation to grow in the space, better for you ingredients and automation on the manufacturing side The supply chain lessons learned from COVID and how companies have maybe pivoted to vertical integration to eliminate uncertainty If and how the regulatory challenges are affecting Weaver Popcorn Manufacturing’s business What’s next for the company…

Agbioscience

1
370. Purdue College of Veterinary Medicine’s Dr. Bret Marsh on building innovators of the future + their insurmountable opportunities 22:37

6 weeks ago22:37

22:37

The USDA just reported that there are 243 veterinary shortage areas across 46 states nationwide – the highest number ever. It’s a challenging environment, particularly when you consider veterinarians are on the front lines of battling avian influenza and dealing with a massively growing companion animal population. Dr. Bret Marsh, Dean of the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine, joins this week to help understand the evolution that’s happening in this space and how this gap is being tackled. We get into: What he’s hearing from veterinarians in the field and those he works alongside on research How his past experience as Indiana’s State Veterinarian and now the Dean at Purdue’s College of Veterinary Medicine has shaped a unique perspective on where this segment of the agbioscience industry needs to evolve Balancing the need for veterinarians in the field with a deep need to continue innovation at Purdue University – and the need for veterinarians to do that, too The latest updates of what’s happening at the Purdue Veterinary Teaching Hospital Areas that have Bret most intrigued right now – from avian influenza vaccines to OneHealth His optimism for the incoming class of veterinary students at Purdue and their insurmountable opportunities The top challenges that will need to be overcome in the industry in the coming years What’s on the horizon for Purdue’s College of Veterinary Science…

Agbioscience

1
369. Nuritas’ Dr. Nora Khaldi on the power of peptides + harnessing science change the health of people + longevity 27:29

7 weeks ago27:29

27:29

The global functional food ingredients market is expected to grow by $53 billion by 2028 according to Technavio. One pioneer, a scientist, is operating at the intersection of food and health and has become a functional food powerhouse. Dr. Nora Khaldi, CEO and Founder of Nuritas, joins us to talk ingredients, food and innovation. We get into: What big companies are looking for right now when it comes to ingredient formulation, specifically around functional foods What a peptide is, and how it works Nuritas’ need product launch, PeptiSleep, and its ability to improve all four phases of sleep How Nora’s conversations go with big food brands when they understand the power of peptides The moments where she understood her own differentiation as an innovator Data’s value and the duration it takes to accrue it – and AI as a tool to fuel the system What’s ahead for Nuritas…

Agbioscience

1
368. Verility’s Liane Hart on leveraging AI to manage animal fertility + stabilize growing demand for protein 16:56

8 weeks ago16:56

16:56

There are roughly 86 million head of cattle and 74 million head of hogs in the US. That’s according to USDA – those numbers flat year over year in a market where the demand for animal protein is expected to be up 5% by 2033. It’s a math equation that creates a challenge but also creates an opportunity for innovation. Liane Hart, co-founder and CEO, of Verility joins us to talk animal health. She gets into: The overall animal health market from both the veterinarian and producer perspective Animal fertility challenges and how Verility seeks to innovate in this area How farmers and ranchers currently manage a lack of fertility in production agriculture Verility’s platform, Fertile-Eyez, the first true AI fertility device in the animal health industry and its ability to remove all subjectivity of sperm analysis and ovulation detection How artificial intelligence is being leveraged to create accuracy and profitability for the producer Liane’s leap from Purdue student to Elanco employee to entrepreneur – including a stop to observe a technology at Brigham and Women’s Hospital Lessons she’s learned as an entrepreneur along the way and advice she’d share with those who might have an innovative idea in agbioscience What’s ahead for Verility…

Agbioscience

1
367. Mitch Frazier recaps May, talks Liberation Labs + Vivici, Velocity $75K Demo Day + Global Entrepreneurship Congress in Indiana 12:33

8 weeks ago12:33

12:33

As Indiana's famous Month of May comes to a close, Mitch Frazier and Cayla Chiddister recap big news for Mark Warner and LIberation Labs, look ahead to exciting new for AgriNovus' Velocity Demo Day and Indiana's hosting of the Global Entrepreneurship Congress next week. Mitch and Cayla also look ahead to his next career journey and talk about what's next for the podcast: Mark Warner talks Vivici partnership on the podcast: https://podcast.agrinovusindiana.com/public/215/Agbioscience-8a9a4381/50e60709 Velocity Demo Day is coming on 6/18. Register here: https://agrinovusindiana.com/velocity/ The Global Entrepreneurship Congress kicks off in Indianapolis next week! Agbioscience listeners can use the code ECOSYSTEM50…

Agbioscience

1
366. The Ugly Company’s Ben Moore on tackling food waste, innovating for consumer health + leading to serve 24:15

9 weeks ago24:15

24:15

The USDA estimates that between 30-40% of the US food supply is wasted every year – that’s over 133 BILLION pounds. One farmer, turned soldier, turned entrepreneur is tackling that market. Ben Moore, founder of The Ugly Company, joins us to talk to fruit. We get into: Ben’s connection to Indiana and how a farmer went on to create a trucking company that became The Ugly Company as it is today How damaged fruit with scars or other cosmetic issues because big business for Ben – The Ugly Company can now be found on store shelves of Target, Sam’s Club, Walmart and Whole Foods The Ugly Company’s goal to prevent food waste, where they are at in that target and how they hope to accelerate that goal in the future How the fruit becomes the product on shelves – The Ugly Process, if you will Ben’s advice for aspiring farmers, business owners and entrepreneurs and lessons he’s learned from leading his business and his time serving in the US Army What service looks like to him versus what it maybe looked like as a 22-year-old soldier What’s ahead for The Ugly Company – including further distribution and availability in schools…

Agbioscience

1
365. Liberation Labs’ Mark Warner on precision fermentation for food + beverage, the Vivici partnership + biomanufacturing’s future 18:03

10 weeks ago18:03

18:03

Global Market Insights predicts the precision fermentation market for food and beverage will grow from just about two billion in 2024 to 70 billion globally by 2034. That’s a staggering combined annual growth rate of nearly 40%. Liberation Labs is pioneering a new approach to precision fermentation at scale that borrows a page from the pharmaceutical industries playbook. Co-founder and CEO, Mark Warner, joins us to get into: What exactly is precision fermentation? The challenge facing companies, particularly early-stage innovators, that Liberation Labs saw an opportunity to solve for with contract precision fermentation The company’s recent announcement of its first customer for the Indiana facility, Vivici, what they will do for them and what’s exciting about the partnership How Mark saw an opportunity in the pharmaceutical space that could be replicated in fermentation for agbioscience innovation Mark’s journey to fundraise for Liberation Labs Reflecting on the decision to put their facility in Indiana for access to talent, corn and transportation The biggest opportunities for growth – not just for Liberation Labs – but for precision fermentation as an industry Biomanufacturing’s importance to economic growth, but in urban and rural America What’s ahead for Liberation Labs…

Agbioscience

1
364. Croft’s Scott Prince on the ag labor market, H-2A's administrative hurdles + innovating a streamlined solution for the farmer 19:29

11 weeks ago19:29

19:29

The U.S. Economic Policy Institute estimates there are 2.4 million ag jobs in the United States and Purdue University believes that 40% of ag jobs – new jobs – go unfilled. One entrepreneur is turning to the power of digital to transform ag labor. Scott Prince, CEO of Croft, gives us perspective on the current labor market and what he’s solving for using agtech. We get into: The complexity and challenges of the ag labor market – from seasonality to workforce shortages How the Department of Labor’s H-2A program is designed to help farmers overcome labor challenges, but the administrative hurdles they face in the process What the process looks like for farmers to participate in the H-2A program and why Croft was developed as a streamlined solution Identifying this as a critical need to automate for the farmer What Scott is hearing from customers using the platform What’s ahead for Croft – hint: it includes expanding their analytical intensity capacity…

Agbioscience

1
363. Oaken’s Shashi Raghunandan talks the landowner + farmer relationship, agtech that saves time + money 21:19

12 weeks ago21:19

21:19

The American Farm Bureau estimates that roughly 40% of US farmland is either rented of leased. It’s a reality that creates a labyrinth of contracts and agreements between farmers and landowners that the two have to navigate together. One entrepreneur is turning to the power of software to transform that challenge into an opportunity that makes that relationship a little easier to navigate. Shashi Raghunandan, CEO of Oaken, joins us to talk the complex web between landowners and farm operators. We get into: The existing challenge between landowners and farmers, especially as farms grow to significant acreage Oaken as a platform not only manage multiple contracts for large acre farms but to also manage the unique specifics of each individual deal How the migration to cloud-based technologies like Oaken balance in an industry like agriculture that is largely relationship-based The feedback farmer customers are giving on the Oaken platform thus far Shashi’s background in payments and financial services and how it paved the way to him connecting with Purdue DIAL Ventures and eventually leading Oaken What to expect from Oaken in the next 12-18 months…

Agbioscience

1
362. Mitch Frazier recaps April, talks Midwest resilience + looks ahead to Quadrant + Velocity's first Demo Day 17:53

12 weeks ago17:53

17:53

At the end of April, AgriNovus CEO Mitch Frazier jumps on the podcast with Cayla Chiddister to recap the month gone by and events coming up, including: Recent travels and discussions around how the Midwest can add additional value to its commodities, an existing strength and something we've done time and again. Mitch recently spoke with AgFunder News' Elaine Watson on challenges meeting opportunities in this tough environment right now and how "pessimists might sound smart, but it's the optimists who will win. That story is here. Our next Quadrant event is coming up in Indianapolis focused on the evolution of food ingredients based on shifting consumer preferences, how food companies are responding and what that means for farmers. You can register for the free event here . Quadrant's discussion aligns nicely with a gigantic event -- The Sweets and Snacks Expo (learn more here ). Field Atlas just closed its May Company Tour application window, but August is still open for college students to apply. Learn more here. Velocity Demo Day is coming up June 18 at the Indiana State Fairgrounds. Register for the free event here .…

Agbioscience

1
361. IBOAH’s Dr. Kelli Werling on animal disease pressure, biosecurity risks + farmers innovating to combat the spread 24:24

12 weeks ago24:24

24:24

The USDA calls biosecurity the cornerstone of animal livestock production and it’s one that’s taken center stage of late as farmers have battled disease. Dr. Kelli Werling, Director of Animal Health Programs at the Indiana Board of Animal Health, joins to talk biosecurity, how farmers are protecting the farm and how the spread of disease among animal production is ultimately impacting consumers. We get into: The current state of biosecurity across the Midwest, avian flu’s impact three years into its reign and how farmers are working to attempt further spread on their operations Consumer pressure being felt by avian flu and how egg prices are being impacted The migration of the disease from birds to other species – from cattle to cats – and why it’s happening As a regulatory body, IBOAH balancing the heightened state of alert, practicality of science and emotion Where Kelli sees new innovations emerging on farms to combat the spread of disease The best defense to avian flu – is a good offense What IBOAH sees ahead with disease pressure and their call to action for farmers and industry alike…

Agbioscience

1
360. BONUS: The FBI’s Herb Stapleton on the complexity of threats affecting agbioscience + calls to action for defense 11:51

13 weeks ago11:51

11:51

Agbioscience was on-site at the Indiana Farm Bureau’s Ag Threats and Security Summit in March and had a chance to sit down with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)’s Special Agent in Charge Herb Stapleton to talk all things biosecurity. We get into: The complex labyrinth of threats and risks affecting agriculture in the Midwest and across the United States How threats to agriculture are evolving and what that evolution means for farmers and agbioscience companies alike As Special Agent in Charge, what Herb has witnessed as the most prevalent cyber threats to ag across the Midwest in recent years Herb’s perspective on the relationship between food security and national security What controls farmers and agbioscience companies can put in place to be prepared Action items Herb hopes attendees take from the event – from the simple to the complex…

Agbioscience

1
359. Dr. Mahsa Vazin on PawCo Foods leveraging AI to optimize pet nutrition + disruption in pet health innovation 14:55

13 weeks ago14:55

14:55

Pet ownership in the U.S. has increased dramatically over the past three decades according to Forbes – showing 66% of households own a pet. That’s almost 87 million houses, up 58% from 1988. Staggering growth drives dramatic need for innovation in pet health...and pet food. Dr. Mahsa Vazin, CEO and founder of PawCo Foods, joins us fresh off a venture capital raise to talk innovation and what’s ahead, including: The overall macro challenges in the pet health market, including obesity in dogs and cats How the pet food market is responding to a consumer desire and demand for more nutrient-dense food for their companion animals How plant-based brands are capturing market share in the pet health space PawCo’s leveraging of AI in tandem with nutritionists to optimize recipe formulations The company’s recent venture capital raise and what it will enable them to expand and do in the future Investor feedback, questions and response to the PawCo model during the recent fundraise Mahsa approach to driving sales for PawCo What’s on the horizon for the company as it continues its growth trajectory…

Agbioscience

1
358. Keystone Cooperative’s Phil Brewer on farmer-led innovation + the evolution of service provider to on-farm business partner 24:29

15 weeks ago24:29

24:29

With 2.4 million U.S. agriculture jobs to fill each year and an unemployment rate that still remains below 5%, leaders in agbioscience and farmers are facing a challenge. Like the rest of the economy, they’re in a battle for talent. One unique ally in agriculture is the cooperative system, a collective buying group and service provider network that’s serving American farmers. Phil Brewer, Vice President of Strategy at Keystone Cooperative, joins us to talk about the evolution of the cooperative from what it was – to what it is. We get into: Keystone Cooperative’s footprint across Indiana, Kentucky and Michigan and the health of farmers heading into planting season The evolution of the cooperative system over the last two decades – from service provider to business partner How the farmer-led model of a cooperative ultimately drives adoption of new innovation and fills gaps for its members on their operations Areas where Keystone needs to move quicker and capture market opportunities to deliver value to farmers How they approach working with small companies and early-stage, venture-backed innovators…

Agbioscience

1
357. Conner Prairie’s Ronda Hamm on becoming The Smithsonian of the Midwest focused on food and agriculture 18:23

16 weeks ago18:23

18:23

The power of experience is undeniable. The context it creates, the insight that it develops is far more than could be accomplished than by simply reading. Benjamin Franklin, one of our nation’s founding fathers, I think, said it best. “Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I’ll remember. Involve me and I’ll learn.” Dr. Ronda Hamm, Director of Food, Farm and Energy Experience and Conner Prairie, joins this week to talk experiential learning and what lies ahead for the National Register of Historic Places in the coming years. We get into: Ronda’s scientific background and how she’s seen biology accelerate innovation over the last two decades Her love for entomology – that’s it – she loves bugs The exciting idea that science is continuing to educate itself, always evolving – and the endless career possibilities that it can present The Food, Farm and Energy Experience at Conner Prairie – what it is, what it’s designed to bring to consumers and industry alike – from grower to grocer How she hopes this new addition to Conner Prairie engages a new generation of agbioscience workforce – and to understand that it expands well beyond farmers to supply chain, food scientists, data analysts and more Her ambition for this site to become The Smithsonian of the Midwest focused on food and agriculture A call to action for industry wanting to be involved in this project and timelines for when to expect this to be rolled out at Conner Prairie…

Agbioscience

1
356. Mitch Frazier recaps March from Indiana Farm Bureau’s Ag Threats + Security Summit 14:54

16 weeks ago14:54

14:54

Agbioscience comes to you from the first ever Indiana Farm Bureau Indiana Ag Threats and Security Summit hosted in partnership with Beck’s Hybrids, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance. We had the opportunity to speak with Megan Ritter (Indiana Farm Bureau), Herb Stapleton (FBI) and Aaron Pierce (Pierce Aerospace) on the breadth, timeliness and criticality of keeping farming operations secure to maintain a safe, abundant food supply. We also cover: A March Quadrant recap and a look ahead to our May 14 event. Register here: https://agrinovusindiana.com/quadrant/ Big pre-seed funding news for startup Gripp. Listen to their recent episode of Agbioscience here: https://podcast.agrinovusindiana.com/public/215/Agbioscience-8a9a4381/f0137c47 ReproHealth Technologies as the winner of the first-ever Agbioscience Innovator Award at the TechPoint Mira Awards…

Agbioscience

1
355. Claudia Nari on Inari’s unique advantage + gene editing as a new paradigm in agbioscience 18:06

17 weeks ago18:06

18:06

Gene editing in plants – it's been heralded as the next step-function change in the advancement of agriculture. One Indiana company is advancing the technology fresh off a $144 million venture capital raise. Claudia Nari, Chief Product Officer of Inari, joins today to talk through this historic time for gene editing and biotechnology at large. They get into: From speed to precision, Claudia lays out the differentiation of gene editing to other types of plant breeding Crops of focus for Inari right now and stresses they’re focused on to enable farmer success The company’s recent venture capital raise, their value proposition and educating investors Inari’s unique advantage (knowing what to do, having the tools to do it and being able to do those at the same time) The status of field trials and what commercialization will look like for Inari Biggest problems in-field to be solved through gene editing – from yield to resource efficiencies Regulatory hurdles and Claudia’s perspective on the acceptance of gene editing as a technology When will Inari technology be in customer fields? And what’s next?…

Agbioscience

1
354. TerraForce’s Mike Jacob on farmer-led innovation, solving for the labor gap + jobs to be done 16:46

18 weeks ago16:46

16:46

The Economic Policy Institute estimates there are 2.4 million employees in U.S. agriculture and Purdue finds that 40% of new ag jobs go unfilled. One entrepreneur is turning to computer vision, artificial intelligence and robotics – maybe a little autonomy – to try to address these challenges facing farmers. Mike Jacob, founder and CEO of TerraForce, joins to talk farmer-led innovation, solving for the labor gap and jobs to be done. We get into: The overview of the farm labor market, its challenges and where TerraForce specifically focuses right now in the specialty melon crop market What challenges face melon producers when it comes to harvest How Mike sees this new era of AI and computer vision shaping precision in agbioscience innovation What TerraForce does, solving labor challenges and how they plan to tackle a real problem facing farmers Mike gets into seeing his first melon harvest, identifying the problem to be solved and innovating from there The criticality of melons – yes melons – to make an impact on his community as an entrepreneur Where the TerraForce product sits today and how regional producers are the critical testbed to the company’s success TerraForce’s recent fundraise and what it will enable them to do Mike’s take on the ag’s jobs to be done: ag becoming less optimized and finding ways to become more resilient to big changes…

Agbioscience

1
353. BONUS: Corteva’s Brook Cunningham and Kearney’s Rob Dongoski from World AgriTech in San Francisco 24:08

18 weeks ago24:08

24:08

Stage content at events like World AgriTech is always of highest quality but there are conversations happening behind the scenes that give a sense of what’s happening in the industry. Brook Cunningham, Senior Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer at Corteva Agriscience, and Rob Dongoski, Food and Agribusiness Leader at Kearney, joined us for a conversation at World AgriTech to get perspective on many topics, including: A volatile market – and the reminder that it’s also cyclical The tipping point for investors and the critical questions they have beyond just yield at this point in time Corteva’s balanced approach between internal and external innovation and the company’s areas of focus when it comes to investment and partnership How Kearney is advising companies seeking investment – of all sizes – in this volatile time (hint: don’t go it alone) Areas of innovation that are seeing traction from investors The importance of creating certainty around the noise – from regulatory to policy and beyond How they both see this market cycle differently than past cycles The role of food and consumers in this next evolution of food and agriculture Crystal ball: what are the conversations at World AgriTech like five years from now?…

Agbioscience

1
352. Beck’s Hybrids’ Brad Fruth on agbiosciences’ go-to market differentiation + the criticality of customer trust 26:45

19 weeks ago26:45

26:45

Identifying customer needs – jobs to be done – it's the core of innovation. But what are the jobs that need to be done? What are those things left undone as we head into the 2025 growing season? And what does the current economy, trade environment and overall farm sentiment mean for innovators and the farmers they serve? Brad Fruth, Director of Innovation at Beck’s Hybrids, joins this week to make sense of it all. We get into: What’s on farmers minds given the current state of the ag economy Big trends Brad is seeing aside from the macroeconomic headwinds and tailwinds The role of biologicals and seed traits in this current economy Beck’s approach to innovation and helping emerging companies bring new ideas to market The differentiation of go-to market in ag versus other industries and the criticality of patient capital from VCs Areas for great impact in agtech right now as Brad sees it The importance of staying lean when you’re starting up and recalling really great technologies that didn’t hit the market because they ballooned and got too big, too fast…

Agbioscience

1
351. Akston Biosciences’ Todd Zion on animal health innovation, companion animals + collaborating with Purdue 19:12

20 weeks ago19:12

19:12

Research estimates the global animal health market to be roughly $8 billion, a number analyst firm Grand View Research expects to grow at a 10% compounded annual growth rate through 2030. Much of that growth will be driven by biotechnology. Dr. Todd Zion, CEO and founder of Akston Biosciences, joins this week to help understand what is happening in the biotech markets, specifically as it relates to companion animal innovation. We get into: Where the market sits today and how it is evolving Akston Biosciences’ 2024 partnership announcement with Purdue University’s College of Veterinary Medicine focused on a therapeutic for canine oncology His approach to animal health innovation through precision proteins creating affordable, effective treatments for companion animals What sits in the Akston Biosciences pipeline currently and the company’s approach to cost-effectiveness while also staying innovative Todd’s past work in human health, how he sees two sides – animal and human health – coming together to push innovation further, faster The regulatory hurdles faced by both human and animal health innovators that delay getting safe, effective treatments to market A big need for more risk capital coming into the animal health innovation market…

Agbioscience

1
350. Elevate Ventures’ Matt Tyner on the cost of innovation + the role of the investor in this next era of venture capital 28:57

20 weeks ago28:57

28:57

Pitchbook reports that of venture capital deals in 2024, roughly 30% of them were down rounds or flat, meaning their valuation of the companies either went backwards or were the same round to round. It’s a trend that will continue, so how can entrepreneurs break the cycle? Matt Tyner, managing partner of America’s most active venture capital firm – Elevate Ventures, joins today to make sense of what’s ahead and how innovators can succeed. He gets into: The current state of venture capital – and the criticality of taking a step back to understand where things sit today Investors’ increased focus on profitability and not being able to cut your way to growth Artificial intelligence as an enabler – not a vertical Does the future include a shift to debt versus venture The cost of innovation and the role of an investor in this era of venture capital What the current conversation with portfolio companies looks like for Elevate Ventures What Matt sees as emerging trends in agbioscience The most important jobs to be done in the industry…

Agbioscience

1
349. Mitch Frazier recaps February, 2025 trends + investment news from Ingredion, Liberation Labs, Corteva Catalyst and TerraForce 21:37

21 weeks ago21:37

21:37

Mitch Frazier and Cayla Chiddister recap February by reviewing his three big trends in agbioscience for 2025, big investment news for Ingredion, Liberation Labs, Corteva Catalyst and TerraForce and look ahead to big events in March - including Quadrant on March 12. Register here: https://agrinovusindiana.com/quadrant/ Learn more about the Indiana Ag Threats and Security Summit: https://agrinovusindiana.com/2025/02/11/indiana-ag-threats-security-summit/…

Agbioscience

1
348. Ag Alumni Seed’s Jay Hulbert on biotechnology’s transformation in agbioscience + the industry's most important job to be done 19:54

21 weeks ago19:54

19:54

Agbioscience is the only economy that touches every person on the planet. Over the past four decades, we’ve seen massive transformation, innovation and acceleration of output in this economy. Today we are joined by a leader who has had a front row seat to it all. Jay Hulbert, CEO of Ag Alumni Seed, joins us ahead of his retirement to talk: Seeing the world and the globalization of agriculture in his career Biotechnology as a step-function change to revolutionizing the row crop world through improved genetics His perspective on the future of gene editing in agriculture and what’s on the horizon Jay’s support of entrepreneurs and the importance of their flexibility to make business models work long-term His extensive background in specialty crop and some of the market intelligence that has paved the way for new products we see in produce today The job that needs to be done as he sees it – or more like, the resources that likely need to be shifted toward climate resilient crops…

Agbioscience

1
347. Farm Credit Mid-America's Natasha Cox on the speed of change + prioritizing smart bets for innovators and farmers alike 26:30

22 weeks ago26:30

26:30

New data from USDA shares that net cash farm income decreased roughly 3.5% from 2023 into 2024 and we’re looking at inflation adjusted numbers. But here’s the piece of the silver lining that may be untold: that number – net cash farm income – is still above average when we look at the last 20 years from USDA data. This week, Natasha Cox, Senior Vice President of Farm Credit Mid-America, joins us to help make sense of the numbers, what it means to producers and to the broader agbioscience economy. We get into: The macro perspective on the health of farm balance sheets across the Midwest Big trends that she’s looking at from a financial health standpoint of farms and agribusinesses Consolidation – from both the farmer and innovator perspective – as a factor in the economic system of agriculture in the US New investments being made on farm or within agribusinesses to better connect to the end market of food is health Natasha’s perspective as a farmer and how she prioritizes where to place her bets for her operations The criticality of surrounding yourself with good partners, knowing your options when it comes to strategic planning and investments and asking the right questions for your operations or business The innovation she’s most excited about in 2025…

Agbioscience

1
346. Hoosier Ag Today’s Eric Pfeiffer on market turbulence, trade wars + the need for a Farm Bill to make plans for the future 24:38

23 weeks ago24:38

24:38

The year 2025 is poised to be an interesting one for agbioscience. Venture capital inflows from 2023 to 2024 are roughly flat according to Crop Life, the production cost of corn and soybeans remains roughly in line or slightly below market price and the turbulence around global trade and what tariffs could mean leave an uncertain operating market for what could be ahead. Joining us today is Hoosier Ag Today president, Eric Pfeiffer, to make sense of what’s ahead. We get into: The current perspective of the farmer, their natural optimism and knowing the challenges that lie ahead for 2025. Trends he’s noticing that are operational changes to drive net farm income – particularly biologicals – and why that’s challenging. Property tax reform as a major topic in the Indiana General Assembly and making this issue relatable to the general public – because it does impact them at the end of the day. The biofuels tax credit bill in the Indiana General Assembly and its potential economic impact and jobs to the state of Indiana (not to mention better burning, more sustainable fuel). On a federal level – trade wars – and tariffs potential impact, good or bad, on farmers. Farmers needing certainty on The Farm Bill to make plans for the future – it does not appear to be a priority at the moment. Reason for optimism from farmers moving forward.…

Agbioscience

1
345. Stumbling into agbioscience, forging your path in college + what young talent wants with Field Atlas’ Cameron Weber 16:12

24 weeks ago16:12

16:12

Making a difference in the world – it’s nearly a universal desire for all of us. But where do you fit in? And how best to you make an impact? One college student is making that impact and blazing their trail. Cameron Weber, a biology major at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology and a Field Atlas Ambassador, joins us today to talk their path to agbioscience, including: Talking to two kinds of people – those that grew up on the farm and those who stumbled into it and are happy they did. Cameron is in the latter Wanting to originally be a doctor until getting connected with Field Atlas at a career fair and learning more about agbioscience. Finding a new path and forging your way forward as a college student Their six-month internship with Corteva Agriscience as a greenhouse assistant in Puerto Rico Field Atlas Ambassadors – what do they do? And what has Cameron’s experience been like in their five semesters with the team? Cameron’s advice for companies searching for young talent (hint: it’s not ping pong tables in the breakroom and pizza on Fridays) Working on their thesis as they wrap up their time at Rose-Hulman Cameron’s plans headed into graduation this spring – pssssss – they're currently looking for a job....…

Agbioscience

1
344. AgriNovus' Mitch Frazier recaps January, big wins for Gripp + Croft, Velocity's launch + reasons for optimism in 2025 11:36

25 weeks ago11:36

11:36

As the first month of 2025 comes to a close, Mitch Frazier and Cayla Chiddister recap a few of the biggest stories in agbioscience, reasons for optimism on net cash farm income and tease a few upcoming episodes of Agbioscience.

Agbioscience

1
343. AgriNovus’ Dan Dawes on Indiana’s unfair advantage, biggest lessons in leadership + reflections on agbioscience innovation 17:19

25 weeks ago17:19

17:19

Much has changed in agbioscience over the last three decades. We’ve seen the introduction of gene editing technologies, new digital capabilities, even autonomy. One leader has had a front-row seat to these innovations. He’ll soon retire, but joins us today to share perspective on where we’ve been and where we’re headed. Dan Dawes, Senior Director of Strategy and Growth at AgriNovus joins us to talk about his career and the highlight reel of groundbreaking innovations in agbioscience. We get into: What has kept Dan in agbioscience all these years, his connectivity to the farm and wanting others to feel the same sense of reward that he did. The macro perspective and many cycles of the agbioscience economy – it's down for now, but it’s never forever. What innovations excited Dan the most throughout his decades long career; but also, which ones did he not see coming? Indiana’s unfair advantage – its people. Dan’s biggest lessons in leadership, giving those you’re leading a map to success and the criticality in finding joy in the work that you do. Finding a mentor as a guide to growing in your career – and beyond – and an update on what’s ahead for Dan.…

Agbioscience

1
342. The Pantheon’s Nichole Like on growing a rural economy, creating an agtech hub in Vincennes + leaving things better than you found them 26:56

26 weeks ago26:56

26:56

Keeping the heart of the heartland requires two key things when we think about growing small towns, cities and rural economies: big vision and lots of hard work. Today’s guest is no stranger to either and shares a great perspective on how one small community in the Midwest is reimagining itself into an epicenter of innovation. Nichole Like, CEO of The Pantheon, an innovation engine in Vincennes, Indiana joins us to talk: Investing in small communities while also honoring their heritage to make them a destination for newcomers to move to and hometown kids to return to for their careers. The steady decline of entrepreneurial activity in rural America and The Pantheon’s vision to create the economy they want – not the way they’re given. Vincennes as Indiana’s first city has big stats to tout – including Knox County leading in ag receipts, being the #1 producer of fruit and vegetable production in Indiana and #2 in the United States for melon production. The simple, but effective, equation to building an agtech ecosystem: bring really smart, progressive farmers to the table with innovators to solve critical problems facing their operations. Creating community buy-in and the importance of local support to drive local economies. What’s ahead for The Pantheon and Indiana’s first city.…

Agbioscience

1
341. Corteva’s Wendy Srnic on gene editing, the Pairwise partnership and artificial intelligence adding speed to biotechnology 20:41

27 weeks ago20:41

20:41

According to AgFunder News, gene editing startups have raised $2.7 billion since 2012 in pursuit of technologies that advance everything from crop performance to yield. Today we are joined by a pioneer in science at the largest pure play agriculture company in the world. Dr. Wendy Srnic, VP of Biotechnology at Corteva Agriscience, to talk gene editing and its future. We get into: What is gene editing and how does it differ from genetically modified crops? How gene editing affects that broader value chain and food system at large. Corteva’s partnership with Pairwise via their investment vehicle, Corteva Catalyst, and how they plan to leverage gene editing to make fruits and vegetables more accessible and nutritious. The objective of Corteva Catalyst to advance external technologies that align with the company’s internal R&D strategy – and the importance of staying nimble to seize opportunities and drive outcomes whether they are joint ventures, acquisitions, investments or traditional collaborations. Wendy’s perspective on where we’re at in the evolution of biotechnology, what’s emerging and how artificial intelligence (AI) is speeding up – and de-risking – the scientific discovery process. What does AI bring to the future of a partnership like that of Corteva and Pairwise?…

Agbioscience

1
340. BioBond’s Marc McConnaughey on bioproducts, university partnerships and Indiana as a perfect storm of location, logistics + people 22:45

28 weeks ago22:45

22:45

According to Zion Market Research, the ag biological products market is expected to grow to $320 billion over the next decade. With a huge connection to agbioscience, what does it mean for farmers? What does it mean for agbioscience innovators? Kicking off season 8 of Agbioscience is BioBond CEO Marc McConnaughey. We get into: What exactly is the bioproducts market and how is demand growing? How BioBond’s sustainable adhesives and protective coatings created a eureka moment for Marc as a serial entrepreneur. The Generation Food Rural Partners Fund and its partnership to help BioBond grow its business in rural Indiana. BioBond’s strategy as a technology execution platform that licenses from universities and how its position near Purdue has created opportunities for innovation + talent. Indiana farmers as a critical piece to BioBond’s future and how the state is a perfect storm of location, logistics and people to aid in their success. What’s ahead for BioBond? Hint: continued focus on the customer and of course, revenue.…

Agbioscience

1
339. Mitch Frazier recaps 2024 + looks ahead to three big forces of change in agbioscience 30:26

29 weeks ago30:26

30:26

It’s the end of 2024 and it was a giant year across food, animal health, plant science, agtech and agriculture. This week, we recap big stories of the year based on Accelerate 2050 – AgriNovus’ study that showed that Indiana’s agbioscience economy grew by $6 billion in 36 months. The study also launched three forces of change and opportunities for industry growth. We are laying out the top stories of 2024 based on these forces of change starting with: Farmer Focused Innovation AGCO and Trimble come together via a joint venture acquisition – listen to Andrew Sunderman from AGCO here ; Corteva Catalyst launches as a new investment and partnership platform designed to accelerate the development of early-stage, disruptive technologies for farmers – listen to Corteva’s Tom Green here ; Gripp wins the Producer-Led Innovation Challenge to reduce administrative burden faced by farmers – listen to Tracey Wiedmeyer from Gripp here . BioInnovation Primient and Sustainea announce $125 million investment to establish Lafayette, Indiana as the world’s largest Bio-MEG facility for bio-based plastics; AgroRenew breaks ground on an $83 million Indiana-based production facility to leverage the power of the region’s melon crop to produce bio-based plastics – listen to Brian and Katie Southern from AgroRenew here ; BioMADE announces Indiana as one of six finalists to compete for the next chapter of bioinnovation infrastructure – listen to BioMADE’s Melanie Tomczak here . Food is Health Anu wins the HungerTech Innovation to better connect food supply with food demand using technology – listen to Anu’s Scott Massey here ; Purdue and Elanco announce the OneHealth Innovation District to establish a globally recognized research innovation district dedicated to optimizing the health of people, animals, plants and the planet – listen to Jeff Simmons from Elanco here ; Corteva’s $25 million equity stake in Pairwise to accelerate gene editing solutions, providing growers with another critical tool to keep pace with challenges facing food production.…

Agbioscience

1
338. AGCO Ventures’ Alex Russomagno on agtech + a new wave of innovation for farmers 21:12

30 weeks ago21:12

21:12

It’s been a tough couple of years in agriculture. Net cash farm income is expected to decrease nearly $6 billion in 2024; that follows a decrease in 2023 of nearly $58 billion. It’s a tough sled for many farmers and there’s companies who are working to bring innovation to farmers to overcome the headwinds that exist. Alex Russomagno, Senior Manager of Strategic Engagement for AGCO Ventures, joins this week to talk: Where things stand for the agtech and ag equipment industry right now. How the acquisition of PTx Trimble and the launch of AGCO Ventures has launched a new wave of startup activity in agbioscience. Matching supply and demand of innovation in the industry; Alex also talks initial investments from AGCO Ventures. The AGCO Ventures Thesis and how agriculture’s downcycle impacts their strategy. What challenges are emerging that will require innovation for the farmer, quickly. Her experience with the power of partnership and investment between big companies and startups. The seismic shifts that will drive the next wave of innovation in agbioscience.…

Agbioscience

1
337. Purdue University President Mung Chiang on the AI revolution + demand-driven education driving impact 22:29

31 weeks ago22:29

22:29

Global market intelligence firm, IDC, estimates that artificial intelligence (AI) will contribute nearly $20 trillion to the global economy by 2030 and represent nearly 4% of global GDP. Today we are joined by an AI pioneer, tech diplomat and leader of Purdue University, President Mung Chiang. We discuss: His journey as a three-time entrepreneur turned university president and how his experience has shaped his approach at Purdue Being on the cusps of the AI revolution, bringing new jobs to market and its elimination of old ones – and its potential to transform the physical world Balancing AI’s opportunity for productivity versus its potential to become an adversarial threat Connecting dots from the past to the future to develop job creation and prosperity in the state – and the critical role of agbioscience to make that happen Purdue has a top 5 college of engineering and a top 5 college of agriculture – and President Chiang talks about the university’s differentiation to drive big outcomes using demand-driven education President Chiang’s eye on the future of Purdue and its continued service to Indiana…

Agbioscience

1
336. Doing something with your data + the ag equipment market with Gripp’s Tracey Wiedmeyer 18:19

32 weeks ago18:19

18:19

Tough commodity markets and a challenging ag economy is putting pressure on all elements of the agbiosciences. One of those is equipment. New data from the Equipment Manufacturers Association shows that tractor sales in the U.S. were down nearly 20% in the most recent month reporting. That's year over year. One entrepreneur is bringing to market a new technology to help those farmers maybe keep their tractors a little longer and better manage their fleet. Tracey Wiedmeyer, CEO of Gripp, joins us this week. We discuss: The current state of the ag equipment market (not such a spoiler: it’s tough on everyone). Challenges facing farmers when it comes to the maintenance of existing equipment – from depreciation to staff coordination on-farm. The greatest opportunity for innovation in the ag equipment market right now and how Gripp was born. What it’s like for producers to interact with Gripp + their feedback. How their partnership with Purdue DIAL has accelerated growth on the farm. Bringing tech talent back to their roots. What’s ahead for Gripp.…

Agbioscience

1
335. Make Hay’s Scott Nelson on the power of storytelling + closing the gaps between farms, food and people 21:29

33 weeks ago21:29

21:29

Food is the only economy in the world that touches every person on the planet. We are all connected to food, and one of the world's top marketers turned entrepreneur is now making the connection between farms, food, and people. Scott Nelson, CEO of Make Hay, joins us to talk all things consumers and connecting to the meaningful world of agriculture. We get into: The existing gap between farms, food and people – and the opportunity to leverage today’s media landscape to connect all three. His time at Panera and how it shaped his viewpoint on storytelling for brands. How Scott’s background brought him to Make Hay + what the company aims to do. Make Hay’s relationship with Purdue’s DIAL Ventures and High Alpha, and how it’s accelerating their business. Scott’s vision for Make Hay – creating content for food transparency at scale, consumer awareness and farmers at the center of it all. Where Make Hay is at today and what’s ahead.…

Agbioscience

1
334. Mitch Frazier recaps November, the election's impact on agbioscience innovation + big investment announcement from Bain Capital 11:51

34 weeks ago11:51

11:51

It's almost Thanksgiving! Mitch Frazier and Cayla Chiddister sit down to recap November and get into: - The election's impact on farmers and agbioscience innovation. - Creating certainty for farmers in this new environment to plan for their operations. - Bain Capital investment into a merger of Biodyne USA, BW Fusion and Agronomy 365. - Entrepreneurship Week in Indiana. - Quadrant coming up on December 4! - Announcing a winner of the 2024 Producer-Led Innovation Challenge.…

Agbioscience

1
333. DPH Biologicals’ Alex Cochran on a maturing ag biologics market + the importance of clearly stated ROI for growers 19:20

34 weeks ago19:20

19:20

New data from AgFunder News shows that ag biologics are used by just under half of U.S. farmers. Dr. Alex Cochran, CTO of DPH Biologicals, joins today to share his unique perspective on this growing market. We discuss: What are ag biologicals and their role in modern production agriculture. Biologicals as an important piece for growers as they manage a tough farm economy. The challenge of change when it comes to farming practices and the criticality of clearly describing ROI for growers. Movement in the biologicals market from big players like Corteva’s acquisition of Symborg and Stoller. DPH’s focus on differentiation and value to its growers + a deep dive into the conversations they’re having at the farmgate right now. The biologicals market has come a long way, but is it still early innings? Alex talks how the technology has evolved what’s on the horizon for DPH Biologicals.…

Agbioscience

1
332. How policy will shape opportunities for innovation in agbioscience with Agri-Pulse's Sara Wyant 23:49

35 weeks ago23:49