Ag - Creative Destruction Lab

For founders building solutions applicable throughout the entire Ag value chain—from producer to plate.

The CDL-Rockies’ Ag stream is based in Calgary and leverages the region’s vast pool of expertise in agricultural innovation to help founders rapidly scale and commercialize their science- or technology-based startup. CDL is an objectives-based program whereby founders work with and learn from experienced entrepreneurs, as well as world-class scientists, economists and business students with deep subject matter expertise. Companies enter the program through a competitive application process and, if accepted, will begin the nine-month program with a cohort of their peers.

CDL is a non-profit organization. There are no fees for participation and CDL does not take any equity. Learn more about the CDL program.

All CDL Alumni Companies ▶︎

Who Should Apply?

The CDL-Rockies’ Ag stream is ideal for founders building scalable solutions that are applicable throughout the Ag value chain. Ideal candidates are well on their way to developing an MVP, or are already in market with their product. CDL Ag focuses on new technologies with the potential to significantly impact or improve current operations within the following areas:

Example Innovation Areas

Sustainable Agriculture: soil carbon markets, biomass and waste innovations, circular economy, etc.
Ag Biotechnology: novel crop inputs, soil microbiome, genomics, etc.
Precision Farming: sensors, IoT, predictive analytics, automation, etc.
Food Safety & Security: supply chain management, food borne pathogen testing & prevention, traceability innovations, etc.
Food Technology: food processing & manufacturing, alternative proteins, cellular agriculture, process automation, etc.
Livestock Health & Wellness: animal surveillance, disease prediction & prevention, increased productivity, etc.

Not sure if CDL Ag is right for you? Contact, Kate Skotheim CDL-Rockies’ Ag Stream Venture Leader, for more information or to speak with someone about the program.

Our Mentors

Mentors form the backbone of all CDL programs by providing the expert guidance early-stage companies need to improve their probability of success. Those participating in the Ag stream are industry leaders, including accomplished entrepreneurs, experienced operators, active angel and venture investors and world-class scientists and economists.

Below, you’ll find information about a few of our distinguished CDL Ag stream mentors.

See all Ag mentors ▶︎