California’s Innovation Pipeline: Accelerating AgTech from Discovery to Impact

17 Mar 2026
Nob Hill A
Breakout Sessions

Hosted by:

California AgTech Alliance

 Join senior leaders from across the University of California (UC) and California State University (CSU) system to demystify how companies can access California’s agricultural innovation engine - from research and field trials to validation and commercialization - showcasing how these world‑class universities help translate breakthrough R&D and innovation into real‑world agricultural impact. The discussion will highlight California’s agtech advantage and the unique pathways start-ups and corporates can leverage to move ideas from the lab to the field and into the market.

Host
Gabe Youtsey
Gabe Youtsey, Chief Innovation Officer - UC ANR
Speakers
Janine Elliott
Janine Elliott, Associate Director, New Venture Resources at Venture Catalyst - UC DAVIS
Eric Hadden
Eric Hadden, Executive Director, Water, Energy, and Technology (WET) Center - FRESNO STATE
Ken Gruys
Ken Gruys, Senior Advisor of Technology Partnerships - UC RIVERSIDE