Community News

NEW: Weekly Food & Ag Roundup by the Star Tribune

Stay up to date with the latest highlights from Minnesota’s food and agriculture ecosystem, curated by the Star Tribune. This ongoing column features timely news and updates from Naturally MN members and beyond. New links will be added — check back often!

  • Naturally MN in the News

    Check out our Executive Director Allison Hohn in this new article in the Minnesota Star Tribune.

  • Minneapolis vegan dog-treat brand Bright Planet Pet sold to Archway Pet

    Congratulations to former Pitch Slam participant Katherine Ellison, who has successfully sold her vegan dog-treat company, Bright Planet Pet, after growing it into a nationally recognized brand with major retail partnerships.

  • John Deere Acquires Sentera to Integrate Aerial Field Scouting

    Hearty congratulations to Sentera, a 2014 MBOLD Bold Growth cohort alum and Minnesota-based agtech leader, on their acquisition by John Deere following years of innovation in drone-powered crop insights.

  • JonnyPops founded in Minnesota, recognized by Forbes 30 Under 30

    Forbes 30 Under 30 alums Erik Brust and Connor Wray founded JonnyPops while still in college. More than a decade later, they are sitting on a mini empire of ‘better-for-you’ frozen treats in Elk River, Minnesota.

  • Congratulations to Smackin' for being recognized as Forbes 30 Under 30

    Duo Waddick and Schaefer, who met as roommates at the University of Minnesota in 2017, decided to spice up the sunflower seed market with quirky flavors ranging from cinnamon churro to backyard BBQ.

  • Tyson Ventures Spotlights Sustainability Entrepreneurs

    Congratulations to NetZro for being one of four selected startups – from animal byproducts to digital enablement – to receive mentorship and other partnership opportunities with Tyson.