By Andi Anderson
Gripp, an Indianapolis-based company, emerged as the winner of the 2025 American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) Ag Innovation Challenge.
Announced during AFBF’s Convention closing session in San Antonio, Texas, this victory recognizes Gripp’s innovative record-keeping and communication platform designed specifically for farmers.
Gripp’s solution offers an operator-centric approach to asset management combined with tools to enhance communication, ensuring seamless connectivity in farming operations. The platform addresses farmers' need for cost-effective and efficient tools.
Co-founders Tracey Wiedmeyer, CEO, and Jenkin Lee, Chief Product Officer, led the company to victory, earning a total prize of $100,000 sponsored by Farm Credit and AFBF.
“Winning the Ag Innovation Challenge validates the challenges faced by farmers and our solutions,” said Wiedmeyer. “Farmers need practical tools that work for them, and this award affirms our approach.” Gripp also expressed gratitude for the support provided by Farm Bureau and Farm Credit in connecting with industry experts and farmers nationwide.
Gripp was one of four finalist teams competing live at the convention after being shortlisted from 10 semi-finalists who presented virtual pitches in October 2024.
Other finalists included Labby from New York, Halio from Utah, and RhizeBio from North Carolina. Labby was named the runner-up.
This marks the 11th year of the Ag Innovation Challenge, the first national competition focused on rural entrepreneurs in agriculture and food-related businesses.
The event, supported by sponsors like Bayer Crop Science, John Deere, and T-Mobile, highlights innovative solutions shaping the future of farming.
Randy Kron, Indiana Farm Bureau president, praised Gripp’s achievement, emphasizing Indiana’s role as a tech hub in the Midwest and Gripp’s impact on supporting farmers’ mission to feed the world. Gripp’s success underscores the potential of agriculture-focused entrepreneurship.
Photo Credit: american-farm-bureau-federation
Categories: Indiana, General