The annual Grow-NY competition drives agribusiness innovation across New York State, backing visionary ideas that enhance sustainability and foster growth in agriculture. Sweet Pea Plant-Based Kitchen, a proud 2022 Grow-NY finalist, remains actively involved in this thriving ecosystem, supporting new talent and continuing to learn from our fellow innovators. Each summit brings an impressive lineup of startups, and this year is no exception. We’re excited to share a closer look at some of the finalists who are shaping the future of agribusiness.

ClearLeaf: Revolutionizing Agriculture with Eco-Friendly Pesticides

ClearLeaf’s journey began in Costa Rica, where co-founders Néstor Zúñiga and Agustín Büchert initially developed a medical device to prevent infections on human skin. As they explain on this week’s episode of Shelling Peas, they saw an opportunity to repurpose this technology for agriculture—specifically to address the bacteria and fungi that plague crop plants. With this pivot, ClearLeaf transitioned from healthcare into the world of sustainable crop protection, ultimately developing a pesticide alternative that eliminates harmful microbes without the environmental risks of conventional chemicals.

Proven Results in Costa Rica—Now Growing in New York

ClearLeaf’s products have shown outstanding results in Costa Rican coffee fields, protecting crops against the persistent coffee leaf rust. Now, they’re bringing their innovations to New York, where they see immense potential to help local farmers. The fungicide and bactericide ClearLeaf has developed are safe enough to apply even on the day of harvest, leaving no chemical residues and making them ideal for high-stakes crops like apples and grapes.

Through Grow-NY, ClearLeaf is connecting with New York growers, researchers, and experts to adapt their approach to the region’s specific agricultural challenges. With the support of local resources, including mentorship from Cornell’s Agritech Center of Excellence, ClearLeaf is refining its applications for the Empire State’s diverse crops.

For more on how Grow-NY nurtures game-changing ideas like this, check out our conversation with Jenn Smith, Director of Food and Ag Innovation at Cornell's Center for Regional Economic Advancement., where we explore how the competition supports a thriving community of forward-thinking agribusiness leaders.

Looking to the Future: Global Expansion and U.S. Market Goals

ClearLeaf’s vision doesn’t stop at New York. The team is currently expanding globally, with plans to establish a presence in major agricultural regions around the world. For Nestor and Agustin, securing U.S. market entry is essential, and New York presents an ideal gateway. As they explain on Shelling Peas, ClearLeaf’s participation in Grow-NY has provided key insights, partnerships, and resources to accelerate this next phase.

Listen to Clearleaf’s Journey on Shelling Peas

Want to hear the full ClearLeaf story in their own words? Be sure to check out the episode of Shelling Peas featuring Chef Ryan Jennings’ conversation with Néstor and Agustín. Their journey from Costa Rican startup to global sustainability leaders is one you don’t want to miss.

We look forward to following ClearLeaf’s continued success and to seeing the impact they’ll make in New York and beyond. Stay tuned for more insights on agribusiness innovation, Grow-NY highlights, and the inspiring stories of companies working to shape the future of sustainable agriculture.