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Sukup Manufacturing invests in AgriTech Accelerator program

A global leader in the grain handling industry is investing in a program that helps launch ag tech startups.

Emily Schmitt with Iowa-based Sukup Manufacturing says The AgriTech Accelerator showcases innovation, which is ingrained in the culture at Sukup.

“We like to be a part of innovation, but we also like to encourage others because with precision ag there’s so much growth opportunity.  And the more involvement and investment with accelerators like this, the faster we get to those points.”

Following a ceremony recognizing the first graduates of the Accelerator program, Schmitt told Brownfield the startups received valuable feedback from mentors.

“I’ve often heard that Iowa Nice can sometimes be a fault as we tend to hold back our feedback.  And in the Accelerator, you really have to train yourself to be honest but caring in your feedback.  It really helps grow the relationships, but the companies also really value and trust the feedback because we’re coming from a good place.”

Other investors in the AgriTech Accelerator include DuPont Pioneer and John Deere.