Gates Agricultural Innovations Unveils New Name and Logo, Emphasizing the Unity and Impact of Agriculture

Press Release

A photo with a closeup of cowpea plant in the foreground, two logos beside it, and a farmer in the background.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

St. Louis, MO (January 16, 2025) – Gates Agricultural Innovations (Gates Ag One), an organization dedicated to advancing the best science to improve smallholder farmer livelihoods and the communities they feed, announced today its new name and logo.

Formerly known as Bill & Melinda Gates Agricultural Innovations, the organization now operates as Gates Agricultural Innovations and Gates Ag One on second reference. This change aligns with the Gates Foundation’s recent update and symbolizes a renewed focus on creating equitable opportunities through science, collaboration, and agricultural innovation.

“Our new look reaffirms our commitment to driving agricultural innovations and fostering collaboration,” said Joe Cornelius, CEO of Gates Ag One. “Although our name and logo are changing, our mission remains steadfast: to equip smallholder farmers with the necessary innovations for success. While our branding evolves, our dedication to forging partnerships and delivering impactful solutions to those in greatest need remains unwavering.”

Since its founding, Gates Ag One has prioritized investments in innovations with the greatest potential to impact smallholder farmers. The organization focuses on six priority crops—cassava, cowpea, maize, rice, soybean, and sorghum—central to smallholder agricultural systems. By leveraging plant biology to advance crop varieties, Gates Ag One is supporting smallholder farmers to adapt to challenges such as climate change and food insecurity.

Gates Ag One’s research portfolio focuses on advancing innovations that enhance crop productivity, resilience, pest resistance, and nutrient efficiency. Through local, regional and global collaborations and partnerships, the organization addresses critical challenges faced by smallholder farmers while ensuring equitable access to these scientific advancements. These efforts exemplify Gates Ag One’s commitment to delivering agricultural solutions that align with the principles of Global Access.

“Our new name is a reflection of what we believe: that agriculture connects us all,” Cornelius said. “It’s about more than growing food—it’s about improving lives. Agriculture has the power to drive economies, promote equality, and build stronger, more resilient communities for today and for generations to come.”