The Missouri Corn Merchandising Council (MCMC) is joining Radicle Growth and state corn organizations from across the country to launch the Radicle Corn Challenge, a global competition designed to accelerate new uses for corn and grow long-term demand. The challenge will invest $1.75 million in selected innovative startups and emerging companies developing technologies to expand how corn is used across materials, chemicals, fuels, and other value chains.
Missouri Corn’s participation reflects a continued commitment by growers to invest in forward-looking opportunities to strengthen markets and add value to the nation’s top crop. Areas of interest include bioplastics and advanced materials, corn- and ethanol-derived products, improved utilization of corn coproducts, and emerging fuel pathways, including marine and sustainable aviation fuels.
“Missouri corn farmers understand long-term profitability depends on expanding demand beyond traditional uses,” said MCMC Chairman Patrick Seyer, a corn grower from Oran, Mo. “By supporting the Radicle Corn Challenge, we’re investing in new technologies and new ideas to unlock future markets for corn, strengthen rural economies, and ensure corn remains a versatile, in-demand crop for generations to come.”
The Radicle Corn Challenge is supported by 12 state corn organizations, including Missouri Corn, and builds on a strong history of farmer-led market development. The Challenge seeks solutions that convert corn and corn-derived streams, such as glucose, ethanol, and other coproducts, into higher-value products.
“Corn has long been a foundational feedstock for food, feed, and fuel,” said Kirk Haney, managing partner at Radicle Growth. “The next opportunity is expanding how corn is used across new products and markets. The Radicle Corn Challenge is designed to help innovators translate promising technologies into real-world demand.”
In addition to capital investment, selected companies will benefit from Radicle Growth’s commercialization expertise and connections across the corn and broader bioeconomy ecosystem. Winning companies will be selected following a comprehensive due diligence process and announced at the Bio Innovations North America Conference Sept. 9, 2026, in Omaha, Neb.
For more information about the Radicle Corn Challenge, sponsored by U.S. corn farmers, or to apply, visit radicle.vc/radicle-corn-challenge.
