AG Food & Beverage BIG IDEA Contest

We are looking for scalable, innovative or technology-focused food and bev solutions, rather than traditional food service or service industry businesses. If you are offering something highly unique, innovative and scalable, however, feel free to apply.

We are looking for scalable, innovative or technology-focused agriculture solutions, rather than traditional farming. If you are offering something highly unique, innovative and scalable, however, feel free to apply.

You qualify to apply if you are located in Ben Franklin’s central and northern 32- county footprint.

Examples include but are not limited to: agricultural innovations and processes to improve farming, harvesting, processing, meat and dairy production, crop health, climate and sustainability, and supply chain; disruptive food or beverage products and innovation to improve food/beverage production, analysis, processing, packaging, sustainability, and supply chain.

We welcome innovators with business ideas to apply. You do not have to have registered your business to apply, but you do need to plan to register to do business in Pennsylvania.

Not required, but recommended.

While cohorts range in size, there are usually 6-8 finalists selected per contest.

• Attend program’s pitch training program
• Complete investment summary (2-page business summary—template provided to finalists)
• Create social media teaser to promote your company for the People’s Choice Award (template provided to finalists)
• Complete at least 1:1 coaching session with Ben Franklin staff
• Present pitch deck at final event

We suggest allotting 5-6 hours per week to complete program materials and prepare for the final pitch competition

The contest awards up to $25,000

Attendees at the final pitch competition vote live to award this $2500 prize to their chosen finalist.