Key Takeaways:
- Yield Lab Institute (YLI) introduces H.A.R.V.E.S.T. AgTech, the successor to the Wells Fargo Innovation Incubator’s agtech program.
- New platform builds on IN2’s track record of supporting 26 agtech startups that raised $290 million and achieved five exits.
- Technical partners include UC Agriculture & Natural Resources and the N.C. Plant Sciences Initiative.
- Ecosystem Partner Network expands reach across 12 U.S. regions and international hubs.
- Founding partners include Breakthrough Energy Discovery and NREL Foundation.
Yield Lab Institute Unveils Next-Generation AgTech Platform
The Yield Lab Institute (YLI) announced the launch of H.A.R.V.E.S.T. AgTech, a new platform designed to accelerate agricultural technology startups. The program builds on the foundation of the Wells Fargo Innovation Incubator’s (IN2) agtech track, which has supported dozens of startups since 2014.
“YLI is honored to have this unique opportunity to build on the incredible foundation of the IN2 agtech program and continue to invest in high-potential innovations through the newly established H.A.R.V.E.S.T. AgTech platform,” said Stephanie Regagnon, Executive Director of the Yield Lab Institute.
Building on IN2’s Proven Track Record
The IN2 program, funded by Wells Fargo & Company and co-administered by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), supported 77 startups across multiple sectors, including 26 in agriculture. These companies collectively raised nearly $290 million in follow-on funding and achieved five exits.
“IN2 is pleased to continue its commitment to agtech innovation by supporting this next chapter with YLI in St. Louis,” said Sarah Derdowski, IN2 program manager at NREL.
Expanded Technical Partnerships
H.A.R.V.E.S.T. AgTech introduces two new technical partners: the University of California Agriculture & Natural Resources (UC ANR) and the N.C. Plant Sciences Initiative (NC PSI). Their participation expands the scientific and field validation expertise available to startups.
“UC ANR is excited to serve as a value-added research-to-commercialization partner,” said Gabe Youtsey, Chief Innovation Officer at UC ANR.
“This collaboration will leverage our faculty's research expertise and entrepreneurial leadership, creating a powerful opportunity to increase impact in the field,” added Adrian Percy, Executive Director of NC PSI.
Ecosystem Partner Network and Global Reach
The Yield Lab Institute also announced its inaugural Ecosystem Partner Network. Through collaboration with AgTech Nation, the network will engage 12 U.S. regional ecosystems while expanding internationally to Argentina, Brazil, Israel, and the United Kingdom.
Breakthrough Energy Discovery and the NREL Foundation joined as founding partners, while Missouri Technology Corporation provided early funding to keep Missouri-based IN2 alumni engaged.
