Calgary-based Knead Technologies has taken top honors in the AgTech & Food category at the 2025 SXSW Pitch competition in Austin, Texas.
The company, which connects food waste with food reuse, impressed judges with its innovative approach to addressing global food insecurity.
Knead Tech was one of 45 startups competing across nine categories in the 17th annual SXSW Pitch event, which spotlights emerging companies in fields ranging from AI and robotics to fintech and accessibility. The competition highlighted startups using generative AI, machine learning, and automation to solve real-world problems.
Other winners included Toronto’s Xatoms, which uses quantum chemistry and AI to purify water, and Houston’s Helix Earth, which adapts NASA technology to improve commercial rooftop AC efficiency.
Described as the Uber for food rescue, Knead Tech raised $800k in pre-seed funding earlier this year. The funding round included investors ScaleGood, UCEED Social Impact Fund, and BDC Thrive Lab, making Knead Tech the first Alberta company to receive funding from BDC’s impact-focused initiative.
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