Apply for the VINE Connect Field Program

Applications are open for VINE Connect’s next cohort, focused on soil health in California row crops. 

This three-month program, developed by UCANR Innovate and Farmhand Ventures, is built for agtech startups with market ready solutions that are looking for real world validation, deeper grower engagement, and a path to scaling in California.

Through VINE Connect, selected companies take part in a virtual curriculum featuring business development and field trial readiness workshops, gain deep industry connections across California's ag sector, and have the chance to present their technologies directly to local growers and stakeholders during a dedicated field day hosted at a UC research farm.

• Join focused workshops on business development and field trial readiness to help you prepare your technology for real-world farm conditions.

  
  

• Build strong industry connections through extensive networking with growers, UC experts, and California agricultural leaders.

  
  

• Showcase your innovation to local farmers and stakeholders during a dedicated Demo Day at UC research farms.

  
  

• Become eligible for non-dilutive grants to support pilot projects or scale your technology further.

The Field Demo Day for this cohort will take place on Wednesday, September 17th at UC Merced's Experimental Smart Farm in Merced, CA. This cohort will have a specific focus on innovations that support soil health.

This cohort is delivered in collaboration with University of California, Merced Smart Farm, the VISTA UC Merced, and the F3 Initiative, (F3 Local and F3 Innovate) —partners who provide a robust network of resources, regional knowledge, and ongoing support to help participating companies succeed. 

The application deadline is June 13. Click here to apply!