Businesses chosen for the program will receive input on technology development along with help securing capital and expanding market reach. The Techstars Farm to Fork Accelerator is accepting applications starting in January 2018 for 10 promising startups focused on food security and safety, agriculture technology, consumer goods and supply chain management.

“Minnesota was literally built by food entrepreneurs more than 150 years ago, and entrepreneurs continue to thrive in the state’s quickly expanding, yet supportive ecosystem,” Brett Brohl, Techstars Farm to Fork Accelerator managing director, said in a statement. “The Farm to Fork Accelerator will build on this rich history, leveraging Cargill’s reach and leadership in food and agriculture as well as Ecolab’s expertise in safe food, clean water and healthy environments. Combined with Techstars’ proven accelerator model, we can truly help entrepreneurs take their companies to the next level while making a positive social impact.”

Techstars Farm to Fork Accelerator will continue for three years, engaging both early-stage entrepreneurs and late-stage startups. Cargill and Ecolab executives will offer mentor support and access to the companies’ market expertise, global networks and investment capital. Additionally, Techstars’ network of entrepreneurs, mentors and investors will work with the selected startups throughout the program.