The Cornell Agriculture and Food Technology Park in Geneva has just expanded its footprint with the grand opening of Tech Farm II, a new 20,000-square-foot facility that doubles the park’s capacity. This significant development underscores the growing demand for space to support the region’s burgeoning food and agriculture startups.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony, held on November 5, brought together local officials, Cornell representatives, and regional business leaders to celebrate the milestone. Michael Manikowski, chairman of the Cornell Agriculture and Food Technology Park Corporation (CAFTPC), emphasized the importance of the expansion, noting that the original Tech Farm has been at or near capacity since its opening in 2005. “Tech Farm II will bring new jobs to the region and provide up-and-coming businesses with the tools they need to thrive,” Manikowski said.
The new facility is designed to accommodate food and agriculture companies engaged in research, product development, and small-scale manufacturing. It joins the original Tech Farm incubator and the Finger Lakes Community College Viticulture and Wine Center as the third major facility on the 72-acre campus. The expansion not only provides additional space for early-stage companies but also creates room for firms that have outgrown the original incubator. Moreover, it enables more businesses to tap into the expertise and resources of nearby Cornell AgriTech for research collaborations and product testing.
Funding for the $3.5 million project came from a combination of public and private sources, including the U.S. Economic Development Administration, New York State’s Empire State Development, the City of Geneva, Ontario County Economic Development Corporation, the Genesee Valley Regional Market Authority, and Lyons National Bank.
Two tenants have already signed on to occupy space in Tech Farm II: Freezcake and Liquid Orchard. Freezcake, a company producing freeze-dried cheesecake bites, is relocating from Florida, where it launched during the COVID-19 pandemic. Liquid Orchard, moving from California, makes a beverage that uses whole fruits and vegetables to reduce food waste while enhancing nutritional value. The company’s leaders said proximity to Cornell AgriTech experts will help accelerate product development and foster collaborations with local food and beverage manufacturers, potentially bringing more production back to the U.S.
Since its inception in 2005, the Cornell Agriculture and Food Technology Park has supported more than 40 companies, providing an environment that nurtures growth and innovation in food and agriculture. As one of 20 New York State-certified business incubators, the park continues to play a key role in advancing the region’s agricultural economy and strengthening its network of entrepreneurs and innovators.
The expansion of Tech Farm II is a testament to the growing importance of the Finger Lakes region as a hub for food, beverage, and agricultural innovation. By providing state-of-the-art facilities and fostering a collaborative environment, the park is poised to drive economic development and create new opportunities for entrepreneurs in the region.