Cornell University introduces Food Spark, a program empowering innovators to transform ideas into market-ready food and beverage products.
The New York State Center of Excellence for Food and Agriculture at Cornell AgriTech (CoE), in partnership with the Cornell Agriculture and Food Technology Park (Tech Farm), has announced Food Spark, an innovative program designed to ignite growth and innovation in New York’s food and beverage industry. This initiative offers qualified candidates the opportunity to participate in the prestigious eCornell Food Product Development Certificate program, an immersive 10-week online course led by food science experts from Cornell AgriTech’s Cornell Food Venture Center (CFVC).
The Food Product Development Certificate program guides participants through the critical steps of bringing a new food or beverage product to market. Over five interactive courses, students will:
- Learn to create prototypes and assess the feasibility of new products.
- Identify hazards and establish control measures for food safety.
- Determine appropriate processing and packaging systems.
- Navigate applicable food regulations.
- Develop a comprehensive framework to take products from concept to market.
This transformative program, valued at $3,900, is offered as a full-tuition grant to selected participants, with awardees only responsible for a $200 one-time registration fee. Funding for Food Spark is made possible through the NYS Certified Business Incubator Program, furthering the Tech Farm’s mission of fostering innovation and economic growth in New York’s food product development sector.
Driving Statewide Innovation
The CoE and Tech Farm collaboration underscores a shared commitment to advancing New York’s agricultural and food industries. Food Spark serves as a catalyst for entrepreneurs, startups, and small businesses seeking to turn their ideas into market-ready products, reinforcing the state’s leadership in food innovation.
Application Details
Applications for the Spring 2025 cohort will open in January 2025. Interested candidates are encouraged to monitor updates and apply via the official Cornell AgriTech website: Food Spark Program.
About the Organizations
Cornell AgriTech: A premier research and educational facility, Cornell AgriTech focuses on the development of technologies that enhance food quality, safety, and sustainability.
Cornell Agriculture and Food Technology Park (Tech Farm): Dedicated to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, the Tech Farm supports startups and small businesses in the food, agriculture, and biotechnology sectors.
For aspiring food innovators, Food Spark offers a unique opportunity to gain essential skills, connect with industry experts, and contribute to the vibrant food and beverage landscape in New York.
