Wayland, Iowa-based startup ChopLocal has received an initial $50,000 investment from Ag Startup Engine.
Founded in 2020, ChopLocal is an online marketplace that makes it easy for farmers and butchers to connect with meat-eaters by simplifying the process from farm-to-fork, supporting small businesses, and providing high quality meat.
“We really value the support of the Ag Startup Engine and we’re really thankful that something like this exists in Iowa to support entrepreneurs in agriculture,” commented Jared Achen, founder and CEO of ChopLocal. “My only regret is that I didn’t reach out to Ag Startup Engine sooner.”
Ag Startup Engine was launched four years ago to help address two fundamental gaps that prevent agricultural startups and entrepreneurs from being more successful: early seed-stage investment and organized mentorship from successful entrepreneurs. The program recently announced closing of their second fund with the goal to accept and invest in 45 agriculture and animal health startups in the next five years.
“As ecommerce grows, customers continually look to marketplaces to provide a variety of options on one platform. ChopLocal is the first marketplace of its type, offering benefits for customers and a competitive advantage for farmers,” said Joel Harris, executive director of Ag Startup Engine. “We’re excited to work with Jared and Katie who have deep industry knowledge and want to shine a light on the best of our industry.”
Previous coverage
Ag Startup Engine raises second fund of $2.25 million to invest in startups over the next five years -Feb. 9, 2021
Ag Startup Engine announces two $50,000 investments -March 1, 2021