The Western Growers Center for Innovation & Technology (WGCIT) continues to support resident startups by creating meaningful connections, strengthening our facility and maintaining an environment that fosters innovation. Below is a brief update on recent activities across our innovation, information systems and facility operations.

Startup Progress & Industry Engagement

Agtech startups within the WGCIT ecosystem regularly meet with our team to share product updates and outline their readiness for grower engagement. When a company reaches the appropriate stage, we facilitate introductions to key decision makers across the Western Growers Association (WGA) membership.

Last week, one of our resident food waste technology startups achieved this milestone. In response, the WGCIT team coordinated several in‑field meetings across Central California and Yuma, Arizona. These meetings allowed the startup to demonstrate their solution directly to grower‑shipper‑processor operations, helping accelerate real‑world evaluation and potential adoption.

Technology Infrastructure Enhancements

To ensure our residents and partners have access to reliable, modern collaboration tools, the Western Growers IT team recently completed several major upgrades within the WGCIT:

Main Conference Room AV Upgrade:
The AV system has been replaced with a new ClickShare presentation platform, simplifying wireless sharing and improving meeting efficiency.

New Battery Backup Systems:
To help safeguard operations during severe weather or unexpected power outages, IT installed updated backup power systems throughout the WGCIT. These additions will help maintain continuity during volatile conditions.

Facility Refresh & Maintenance

We’ve also been focused on creating a clean, welcoming, and productive environment for all who use the space. The carpets in the WGCIT conference room and all meeting rooms received a deep professional cleaning. The entire office is looking refreshed and ready for a busy season of collaboration and innovation