California's agribusiness industry plays a pivotal role in the state's economy, showcasing a rich history of innovation in agriculture. With a climate that supports a wide variety of crops, companies range from large-scale farming operations to tech-driven agritech ventures. They focus on sustainable practices, addressing environmental concerns while maximizing yield and efficiency. Trends such as vertical farming and biotechnology indicate a forward shift toward enhancing productivity in response to global food challenges. There's an increasing demand for organic produce and technology that harmonizes agricultural processes with environmental care, highlighting the evolving nature of agribusiness in California.

The listed companies vary in size and specialization, with many based in California's vibrant agricultural hubs. Ranging from small entities with a handful of employees to larger enterprises with thousands, these firms were founded between the 1930s and 2010s. Their focus includes crop nutrition, seed production, and agricultural technology. Notable names such as Driscoll's, producing fresh berries, and Wilbur-Ellis, offering agronomic products, underscore the significance of innovation and sustainability in this industry-driven state.

Read on to explore the top agribusiness companies in California.

Top 23 Agribusiness Companies in California

1. Wilbur-Ellis

• Website: wilburellis.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 95%, Other 5%
• Founded year: 1921
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: wilbur-ellis-company

Wilbur-Ellis is a family-owned company based in San Francisco, California, with a rich history dating back to 1921. Specializing in agribusiness and nutrition, Wilbur-Ellis offers a wide range of products, including crop protection solutions, fertilizers, and animal nutrition products. The company plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural businesses and farmers, aiming to enhance productivity and sustainability in food production. In addition to its core offerings, Wilbur-Ellis has established a venture capital arm, Cavallo Ventures, which invests in innovative technologies that can benefit the agricultural sector. With approximately 3,400 employees, the company is dedicated to providing essential services that help farmers maximize their returns while minimizing resource use. Their commitment to corporate social responsibility and environmental stewardship further underscores their relevance in the agribusiness industry.

2. Farmer's Business Network, Inc.

• Website: fbn.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: San Mateo, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 74%, Canada 17%, India 3%, Other 6%
• Latest funding: Series E-K, $300.0M, September 2021
• Founded year: 2014
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: farmers-business-network

Farmer's Business Network, Inc. (FBN) is an agricultural technology company based in San Mateo, California, founded in 2014. The company aims to empower family farmers by providing data-driven insights and a range of farm products through a digital platform. FBN focuses on maximizing profit potential and minimizing production costs, offering services that include online shopping for farm inputs, financial services, and sustainability solutions. With a customer base primarily consisting of farmers, FBN has built a community of over 90,000 farmer members across the United States, Canada, and India. The company has also received significant funding, with a Series E-K round totaling $300 million in September 2021, indicating strong investor confidence in its business model and growth trajectory. FBN's innovative approach, including direct-to-farm delivery and transparent pricing, positions it as a key player in the agricultural sector, addressing the needs of modern farmers while promoting sustainable practices.

3. Nuseed

• Website: nuseed.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: West Sacramento, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 44%, Australia 15%, Ukraine 5%, Other 36%
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: nuseed

Nuseed is an agricultural company based in West Sacramento, California, founded in 2006. It specializes in seed production and bioenergy solutions, offering a range of products including canola, sorghum, and sunflower seeds. Nuseed is particularly noted for its innovative nutritional oils, such as Aquaterra and Nutriterra, which cater to the growing demand for sustainable food sources. The company serves growers and food producers who are increasingly focused on sustainable agricultural practices. With a workforce of approximately 299 employees and operations in over 30 countries, Nuseed is positioned as a global player in the seed industry. Their proprietary solutions aim to tackle pressing issues like food security and climate change, showcasing their commitment to creating value beyond just yield. Nuseed is also the seed technologies platform of Nufarm Limited, further enhancing its capabilities and market reach.

4. BioConsortia, Inc.

• Website: bioconsortia.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Davis, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 96%, New Zealand 4%
• Latest funding: Series E-K, $15.0M, April 2024
• Founded year: 2014
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: bioconsortia-inc-

BioConsortia, Inc., founded in 2014 and based in Davis, California, is an agricultural technology company dedicated to developing microbial products that enhance crop yields and promote sustainability. The company specializes in solutions for nitrogen fixation, pest control, and biostimulants, targeting agricultural businesses that aim to improve productivity while reducing ecological footprints. BioConsortia employs advanced microbial selection techniques to create innovative products that replace traditional chemical inputs. With a workforce of 48 employees and a significant presence in the United States and New Zealand, the company has raised over $50 million from investors focused on sustainable agriculture. Their recent funding round of $15 million in April 2024 underscores their ongoing growth and commitment to addressing the challenges of modern agriculture.

5. Buttonwillow Warehouse Company

• Website: bwcag.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Bakersfield, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1963
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: buttonwillow-warehouse-co

Buttonwillow Warehouse Company, based in Bakersfield, California, is an agricultural consulting firm that has been serving California growers since its inception in 1963. Initially starting as a grain elevator and warehouse, the company has evolved to offer a comprehensive range of agronomic products and services. Their expertise lies in crop nutrition, protection, and custom agronomy services, which are crucial for helping farmers achieve sustainable and successful harvests. With eleven service locations throughout California and one in Central Mexico, Buttonwillow provides localized support tailored to the unique challenges faced by growers in the region. The company also offers financing solutions, ensuring that farmers have access to the necessary resources to optimize their operations. Their team of trained crop advisors and service technicians is dedicated to delivering value and fostering long-term partnerships with their clients, reinforcing their commitment to the agricultural community.

6. Alforex Seeds LLC

• Website: alforexseeds.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Woodland, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1939
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: alforex-seeds-llc

Alforex Seeds LLC, based in Woodland, California, is a private seed company that specializes in the production and development of alfalfa seeds and forage products. Established in 1939, the company has built a reputation for its innovative approaches to seed technology. Alforex Seeds focuses on research and development to enhance the quality of alfalfa varieties, ensuring they meet the demands of modern agricultural practices. Their product offerings include advanced technologies such as Hi-Gest® and Hi-Ton alfalfa, which are designed to provide high-quality forage solutions for farmers and agricultural producers. The company emphasizes disease resistance and yield improvement, making their products valuable for livestock feed and forage management. Alforex Seeds is committed to supporting farmers with resources and expertise, further solidifying its role in the agribusiness sector.

7. Pivot Bio

• Website: pivotbio.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Berkeley, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 96%, Brazil 4%
• Latest funding: Series D, $430.0M, July 2021
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: pivot-bio

Pivot Bio, founded in 2011 and based in Berkeley, California, is an agricultural technology company that specializes in microbial fertilizers. Their innovative products, such as PIVOT BIO PROVEN® and RETURN®, are designed to provide farmers with reliable nitrogen sources, significantly reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers. This approach not only supports crop nutrition but also promotes sustainability in farming practices. The company has partnered with over 20 land-grant institutions to validate the effectiveness of its products through independent research. With a workforce of approximately 362 employees, Pivot Bio is actively engaged in the agricultural sector, focusing on enhancing crop yields while minimizing environmental impact. The company has attracted significant investment, securing $430 million in its last funding round in July 2021, which underscores its potential and relevance in the industry.

8. JH Biotech, Inc.

• Website: jhbiotech.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Ventura, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1987
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: jh-biotech

JH Biotech, Inc., based in Ventura, California, is an agricultural products company that specializes in crop and animal nutrition. Established in 1987, the company has developed a comprehensive range of products designed to improve agricultural productivity and sustainability. Their offerings include plant nutrition solutions, soil amendments, and animal feed additives, all aimed at helping agricultural producers maximize yields while maintaining environmental integrity. JH Biotech is also involved in agricultural research and product development, focusing on innovative solutions such as chelated minerals and biological products. With a global distribution network that spans North and South America, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Australia, and Europe, JH Biotech serves a wide array of customers in the agricultural sector. Their commitment to organic and environmentally friendly practices further underscores their relevance in today's agribusiness landscape.

9. Ceres, Inc.

• Website: ceres.net
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Thousand Oaks, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Italy 100%
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: ceres-inc

Ceres, Inc., operating under the name Forage Genetics International, is a private company based in Thousand Oaks, California. Founded in 1996, it specializes in agricultural technology with a strong emphasis on alfalfa seed and trait innovations. The company is known for its development of advanced alfalfa products, including HarvXtra, which reduces lignin content to maximize forage quality, and Roundup Ready alfalfa, which offers exceptional weed control. Ceres is dedicated to enhancing grower productivity through innovative seed and trait products, supported by extensive research and development efforts across multiple locations in the United States. Their commitment to improving agricultural practices is evident in their partnerships with universities and research institutions, aimed at discovering new alfalfa potentials and advancing the forage industry.

10. Calysta

• Website: calysta.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Mateo, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 59%, United Kingdom (UK) 33%, China 4%, Other 4%
• Latest funding: Series D, $39.0M, March 2021
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: calysta-energy

Calysta is a cellular agriculture company based in San Mateo, California, founded in 2011. The company specializes in producing sustainable protein solutions through a patented fermentation platform. This innovative process allows Calysta to create high-quality protein ingredients that cater to the aquaculture, livestock, and pet food industries. Their product lineup includes FeedKind and Positive Protein, which are designed to meet the nutritional needs of various markets while promoting environmental sustainability. Calysta's approach not only addresses the increasing global demand for nutritious food but also contributes to food security by reducing reliance on traditional agricultural practices. The company has successfully raised $39 million in its latest funding round, highlighting its potential for growth and impact in the agribusiness sector.

11. DECCO US Post-Harvest

• Website: deccous.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Monrovia, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 88%, Turkey 12%
• Founded year: 1934
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: decco-us-post-harvest

DECCO US Post-Harvest, Inc. is a private company based in Monrovia, California, founded in 1934. It specializes in providing postharvest solutions tailored for the agricultural sector, particularly focusing on fresh produce such as fruits and vegetables. DECCO offers a range of products and services designed to enhance the quality and safety of produce, thereby reducing food waste and improving food security. The company collaborates directly with major producers and exporters worldwide, ensuring that their solutions effectively address the challenges faced in the food value chain. DECCO's commitment to innovation is highlighted by their recent achievement of organic certification for their coatings, showcasing their dedication to sustainable practices. With a workforce of around 24 employees, DECCO operates primarily in the United States, with a small presence in Turkey, and continues to play a vital role in the postharvest industry.

12. Pacific Ag Management

• Website: pac-ag.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Wasco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1990
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: pacific-ag-management

Pacific Ag Management Inc. is a family-owned farm management company based in Wasco, California, founded in 1990. The company specializes in managing agricultural operations, particularly focusing on almonds and pistachios, with oversight of over 20,000 acres. Their services include comprehensive equipment management, efficient farming operations, financial oversight, and strategic marketing. They cater primarily to growers and farmers, aiming to enhance profitability and sustainability in agricultural practices. Pacific Ag Management prides itself on implementing Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) to ensure the longevity and health of the crops they manage. Their commitment to safety and worker welfare is evident in their operational protocols. The company also engages in partnerships that expand their service offerings, such as their collaboration with Treehouse California Almonds, which enhances marketing and sales for their clients. With a strong emphasis on innovation and a legacy of agricultural expertise spanning three generations, Pacific Ag Management is well-positioned to navigate the evolving challenges of the agribusiness sector.

13. Western Milling

• Website: westernmilling.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Goshen, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: June 2022
• Founded year: 1935
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: westernmilling

Western Milling, based in Goshen, California, has been a significant player in the agricultural sector since its inception in 1935. The company specializes in providing a wide range of agricultural solutions, including commercial animal feeds for dairy, poultry, hogs, and cattle, with a portfolio boasting over 1,700 active formulas. They also produce retail and lifestyle feeds under the O.H. Kruse brand, known for its innovative and nutritional offerings. In addition to animal nutrition, Western Milling supplies agricultural inputs such as soil amendments, planting seeds, and fertilizers, aimed at maximizing farmers' investments. Their integrated logistics services, including trucking and rail support, further enhance their operational capabilities. With a strong emphasis on customer relationships and continuous improvement, Western Milling is committed to delivering quality products and services that contribute to the success of their clients in the agriculture industry.

14. Farmers' Rice Cooperative

• Website: farmersrice.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Sacramento, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 94%, Nigeria 6%
• Founded year: 1944
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: farmers%27%e2%80%8b-rice-cooperative

Farmers' Rice Cooperative (FRC) is a grower-owned rice marketing cooperative based in Sacramento, California. Established in 1944, FRC has become a key player in the rice industry, processing and marketing approximately 25% of all rice grown in California. The cooperative represents over 700 member-owners and supplies rice products to food manufacturers, brewers, and retailers across more than 65 countries. FRC operates three state-of-the-art milling facilities, which are strategically located to optimize production and distribution. The cooperative is committed to quality assurance, ensuring that all rice products are tested and certified GMO-free. FRC's product offerings include various rice types, including medium grain Calrose, which is particularly popular in the Pacific Islands. The cooperative also emphasizes environmental stewardship and works to limit its ecological impact while providing a profitable return for its member growers. With a strong focus on customer relationships and a reputation for reliability, Farmers' Rice Cooperative continues to be a significant contributor to the agribusiness sector.

15. Illume Agriculture

• Website: illumeag.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Bakersfield, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1937
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: djfm

Illume Agriculture, based in Bakersfield, California, is a family-owned agricultural investment firm that has been operational since 1937. The company specializes in asset management and farm services, focusing on maximizing returns for investors and agribusiness professionals. Illume manages approximately 25,000 acres of agricultural assets, primarily table grapes and almonds, in California and Portugal. Their services include comprehensive farm management, custom farm services, and advisory support for mergers and acquisitions. Illume is also recognized for its commitment to sustainability, implementing effective water management practices and prioritizing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards in their operations. Their expertise in the agricultural sector is complemented by a team of professionals with extensive experience in agriculture, business management, and investment services.

16. Sun Valley Rice

• Website: sunvalleyrice.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Arbuckle, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 62%, United Kingdom (UK) 33%, Sudan 5%
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: the-sun-valley-rice-company-llc

Sun Valley Rice, founded in 2000 and based in Arbuckle, California, is a private company that specializes in rice production and food manufacturing. The company is dedicated to providing high-quality rice products sourced from local California farms, ensuring that all ingredients come from within a 100-mile radius of their milling facility. Sun Valley Rice offers a variety of services, including milling, sprouting, and private label options for businesses in the food industry. Their commitment to sustainability is evident in their partnerships with local farmers who practice responsible farming methods. The company also emphasizes quality, with rigorous standards that exceed USDA requirements. Sun Valley Rice is known for its innovative sprouting techniques, which enhance the nutritional value and flavor of their rice products. They cater to a range of markets, including retail and food service, and have established a reputation for reliability and excellence in the agribusiness sector.

17. Valent U.S.A. LLC

• Website: valent.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: San Ramon, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 97%, Other 3%
• Latest funding: January 2000
• Founded year: 1988
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: valent-usa

Valent U.S.A. LLC, founded in 1988 and based in San Ramon, California, is an agricultural solutions provider that specializes in crop protection and enhancement products. The company offers a wide range of solutions, including insect control, weed control, disease management, and seed treatments. Valent is dedicated to helping agricultural producers tackle challenges related to pest and weed management, thereby optimizing crop yields. Their product portfolio also includes organic and sustainable solutions, reflecting a commitment to environmentally responsible practices. Valent actively engages in research and development to innovate and improve their offerings, ensuring they meet the evolving needs of growers. With a workforce of approximately 343 employees, the company primarily serves the U.S. market, demonstrating a strong presence in the agricultural sector.

18. Driscoll's

• Website: driscolls.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Watsonville, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 35%, Mexico 27%, Morocco 8%, Other 29%
• Founded year: 1944
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: driscoll%27s

Driscoll's, Inc. is a family-owned berry producer based in Watsonville, California, with a history dating back to 1944. The company specializes in the cultivation and sale of fresh strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, and blueberries, catering to both retail and food service sectors. Driscoll's is known for its commitment to sustainable farming practices, ensuring that their operations are environmentally responsible. They work closely with independent farmers and harvesters, emphasizing a collaborative approach to agriculture. The company has a significant presence in various countries, including Mexico, Morocco, the Netherlands, and Australia, which allows them to maintain a year-round supply of fresh berries. Driscoll's also invests in community initiatives, contributing to local health and education programs, and has allocated substantial funds to charitable causes, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Their focus on innovation, quality, and community engagement positions them as a key player in the agribusiness industry.

19. Moore Farms, Inc.

• Website: moorefarmsca.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Arvin, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1922
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: moore-farming-companies

Moore Farms, Inc., also known as White Wolf Potato Co., is an agricultural producer based in Arvin, California. Founded in 1922, the company has cultivated a rich legacy over four generations, specializing in the growth and distribution of a variety of crops, including potatoes, pistachios, and almonds. Moore Farms has played a pivotal role in the San Joaquin Valley's agricultural landscape, being one of the first to introduce pistachios and almonds to the region. The company prides itself on its commitment to sustainability, employing environmentally sound practices to manage its resources responsibly. Moore Farms serves a range of clients in the food industry, including notable companies like Frito Lay and Grimmway Farms, ensuring high-quality produce and reliable distribution. Their focus on innovation and customer service has allowed them to maintain relevance in a competitive market, while their educational initiatives, such as the David Moore Agricultural Scholarship Fund, reflect their dedication to the future of agriculture.

20. Rpac, LLC

• Website: rpacalmonds.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Los Banos, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 88%, India 12%
• Latest funding: June 2023
• Founded year: 1986
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: rpacalmonds

Rpac, LLC, based in Los Banos, California, is an agricultural producer and almond processor that has been in operation since 1986. The company specializes in high-quality almond farming, hulling, and processing, catering to a global clientele that includes food manufacturers and retailers. With a focus on sustainability, Rpac employs advanced technology and state-of-the-art equipment to ensure the quality of their almonds while minimizing waste and environmental impact. The company prides itself on its strong relationships with growers, emphasizing best practices in farming and a commitment to quality. Their operations include not only the cultivation of almonds but also the processing of almonds from selected growers, ensuring a consistent and premium product. Rpac's dedication to food safety and quality control is evident in their rigorous monitoring processes and certifications, which further solidify their reputation in the industry.

21. Alturas Ranches

• Website: alturasranches.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Alturas, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: alturas-ranches

Alturas Ranches is an agricultural company based in Alturas, California, founded in 1996. The company specializes in the cultivation of alfalfa, wild rice, and wheat, and is also involved in livestock management. With a dedicated team operating across 55,000 acres, Alturas Ranches focuses on producing high-quality feed products and forage for livestock. Their operations include growing alfalfa and wild rice, as well as providing alfalfa pellets for livestock and equine needs. The company emphasizes sustainable farming practices and actively engages with local farmers and ranchers to meet their agricultural needs. Alturas Ranches has a strong commitment to land stewardship and innovation in farming techniques, which enhances their relevance in the agribusiness sector.

22. Terviva

• Website: terviva.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Alameda, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: India 57%, United States (USA) 41%, Other 2%
• Latest funding: October 2024
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: terviva-bioenergy

Terviva is an agricultural innovation company based in Alameda, California, founded in 2010. The company specializes in cultivating pongamia trees, which produce sustainable food ingredients and biofuel. Terviva partners with farmers to revitalize agricultural lands, focusing on climate-resilient crops that address food security and environmental challenges. Their operations extend across continents, including India, the United States, and Australia, where they work to create an equitable supply chain for their products. Terviva has developed a proprietary process to transform pongamia beans into Ponova® food ingredients, emphasizing sustainability and community impact. The company is also involved in biofuel production, utilizing pongamia as a feedstock for renewable energy solutions. With a workforce of around 122 employees, Terviva is committed to fostering local economies and improving livelihoods through its agricultural practices.

23. ProducePay

• Website: producepay.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 47%, Mexico 43%, Peru 5%, Other 5%
• Latest funding: Series D, $38.0M, February 2024
• Founded year: 2014
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: produce-pay

ProducePay is a financial services firm based in Los Angeles, California, founded in 2014. The company specializes in the agricultural sector, focusing on fresh produce. They offer innovative financial solutions such as Pre-Season Financing and Quick-Pay Funding, which help growers and buyers manage cash flow and navigate the complexities of the market. By enhancing supply chain visibility and facilitating trading, ProducePay aims to transform the produce industry. The company has a significant presence in North America and Latin America, with a workforce that is nearly evenly split between the United States and Mexico. Recently, ProducePay secured $38 million in Series D funding in February 2024, reflecting strong investor confidence in their mission to support agricultural businesses. Their commitment to sustainability and reducing food waste further aligns them with contemporary industry values.

Agribusiness Insights: Key Companies in California

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