#United States #Des Moines #Pivot Bio #AgTech #Chris Abbott

Chris Abbott of Pivot Bio at the 2025 World Food Prize Dialogue

Pivot Bio, renowned for its groundbreaking innovations in agricultural technology, is taking center stage at the 2025 Norman E. Borlaug International Dialogue in Des Moines, Iowa. The event is part of the prestigious World Food Prize, gathering experts and leaders to discuss critical advancements and the future of food security.

This week, Pivot Bio’s CEO, Chris Abbott, delivered a compelling address during the panel titled "Innovating the Future Now". The session, moderated by Isis Almeida, Chicago Bureau Chief at Bloomberg, featured discussions with other influential figures who are reshaping food and agricultural practices worldwide. Abbott’s participation also includes his role as a judge for the inaugural Innovate for Impact Challenge, a competition that received an impressive 380 submissions aimed at addressing global food security issues.

The theme of this year's Borlaug Dialogue, "SOILutions for Security", reflects a worldwide consensus on the fundamental role of soil as a living ecosystem crucial for food production, climate resilience, and economic sustainability. Farmers, scientists, and innovators across the globe are increasingly harnessing microbiology and soil health to enhance agricultural efficiency and crop yields while providing significant environmental benefits. This aligns perfectly with Pivot Bio’s mission and technology.

In recognition of her exceptional contribution to agricultural innovation, the dialogue this year will honor Dr. Mariangela Hungria, an established researcher at the Embrapa National Soybean Center in Brazil, who is being awarded the 2025 World Food Prize for her trailblazing work in biological nitrogen fixation. Her pioneering research has transformed soil health and productivity across millions of hectares, significantly reducing the reliance on synthetic fertilizers.

Abbott expressed his pride in participating at the Borlaug Dialogue, stating, “It’s an honor to recognize those who are driving science-based change for both farmers and our planet. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Mariangela Hungria for her groundbreaking work that has redefined how we think about soil microbiology, empowering farmers and advancing sustainable food production. We’re excited to bring our technology to Brazil soon, helping growers who are committed to microbial innovation.”

He emphasized the essential need for innovation in agriculture, the world's most important industry, especially as harvest results demonstrate improved yields and stronger crops through Pivot Bio’s offerings. “As results come in, it's apparent that our products are making a significant impact and helping farmers grow more with less,” Abbott added, underscoring the potential of agricultural innovation to enhance the global food supply sustainably.

After his panel discussion, Abbott will judge the final presentations of the final three startups in the Innovate for Impact Challenge. These startups—APOLO Biotech from Argentina, Capsber Agriscience from India, and Vet Konect from Nigeria—were selected from nearly 400 candidates across 65 countries. Their focus varies from RNA-based crop protection to microbiome-powered soil solutions and AI-driven livestock care, demonstrating transformative ideas capable of revolutionizing agriculture.

The challenge culminates in live pitches at the Borlaug Dialogue, where the winner will be awarded a $50,000 grand prize. Second and third places will receive $10,000 and $5,000, respectively, with the awards presented by Pivot Bio Founder and Chief Innovation Officer, Karsten Temme.

Abbott complimented the initiative by stating, “Congratulations to the World Food Prize Foundation for launching this innovation challenge. The efforts of these innovators are invaluable to the next era of agriculture. As a judge, I encountered a diverse range of impressive submissions, and selecting just three finalists was challenging, but I look forward to their final presentations.”

Pivot Bio's global presence is a testament to its leadership in sustainable innovation. The company has received accolades, including being named among TIME’s Top Green Tech Companies in 2025. It has also featured multiple times in TIME's Best Inventions and is recognized by Fast Company and CNBC in various prestigious lists.

In addition, the company's mission extends to smallholder farmers in Africa, partnering with MIT to enhance nitrogen efficiency and productivity while addressing climate resilience challenges. With its groundbreaking products available in North America and soon in Brazil, Pivot Bio aims to revolutionize how food is grown globally, prioritizing sustainability and reliability in the face of increasing climate volatility.

For those interested in learning more about Pivot Bio and their innovative agricultural solutions, visit PivotBio.com.