Bayer has announced that Genvor Inc., a US-based crop protection firm, is the recipient of its inaugural Golden Ticket award. As part of this award, Genvor will gain access to lab space and equipment for a year at Bayer’s LifeHub California @AgStart, a leading AgriFoodTech innovation hub in the U.S. This opportunity will enable Genvor to collaborate with Bayer mentors and tap into Bayer’s extensive global innovator network.
Genvor, known for its work with biological sprays, is also advancing antimicrobial peptide (AMP) technology. Their approach aims to enhance disease resistance and nutrition from seed to sprout by making precise changes within crop genomes. These innovations are designed to boost crop health and nutritional value.
Phil Taylor, Director of Open Innovation and Outreach at Bayer’s Crop Science Division, expressed enthusiasm about Genvor’s selection. “We’re thrilled to support Genvor in scaling their innovations. Their use of antimicrobial peptide technology could lead to broad-spectrum biological sprays, offering effective control of various plant diseases.”
The Golden Ticket program is part of Bayer’s broader strategy to partner with startups globally to accelerate agricultural advancements. In its first year, the program targets areas such as regenerative agriculture, novel crop protection, advanced breeding technologies, and synthetic biology. Out of numerous applicants representing 34 cutting-edge technologies, Genvor was chosen for its innovative approach to crop protection. Through Bayer’s LifeHub California @AgStart, Genvor will benefit from top-tier equipment, resources, and mentorship to advance their technologies.
Chad Pawlak, CEO of Genvor, highlighted the significance of the award: “Receiving Bayer’s Golden Ticket is a pivotal moment for us. It will fast-track our peptide design innovations, enhancing agricultural sustainability and providing global benefits for farmers and the environment.”
Bayer’s LifeHub network, located in innovation hubs like Monheim, Lyon, Barcelona, California, and Bangalore, focuses on critical agricultural innovations such as smallholder farmer solutions, transparency, and sustainability. LifeHub California @AgStart, part of the larger AgStart facility, supports startups with state-of-the-art equipment and Bayer’s scientific expertise, fostering the development of new technologies.
Sudhee Lakshmana, Director at AgStart, welcomed Genvor into the innovation community, stating, Genvor’s selection for the Golden Ticket is a testament to their potential to make a significant impact with their innovations.
