Chris Michlewicz, Author at Hydroponic Container Farms and Mushroom Farms - FarmBox Foods

Tooth & Gill Mushroom Co. Now Certified Organic

A Pagosa Springs-based small business that uses a controlled-climate container farm to grow culinary and functional mushrooms is now certified organic.

Behind the Tooth & Gill Mushroom Co. brand is husband-and-wife team Aaron Carter and Lauren Hawksworth, both of whom left the corporate world to pursue their passion for improving community access to healthy food in the form of gourmet mushrooms. These particular mushrooms are grown entirely in the confines of an insulated, tech-assisted shipping container farm built by Colorado-based FarmBox Foods.

Tooth & Gill Mushroom Co. launched last year and has made quite an impression through consumer-facing pop-ups, deliveries, farmers markets in Pagosa Springs and Bayfield, and food hubs like Terra Walk Farm and Valley Roots Food Hub. It has also forged partnerships with local restaurants (Meander, a New York Times-recognized farm-to-table destination; Keyah Grande’s Beyond the Gates, and Wild Finch, a new restaurant led by chef Daya Myers at The Springs Resort).

“It’s about local food systems, and people are starting to show interest in rebuilding those,” Lauren said. “We see it here in our community, which is really cool.”

Now being officially certified as organic enables Tooth & Gill to get on the shelves of local grocery stores. As interest in where food comes from and support for local farmers grows, there are opportunities for independently owned enterprises to fulfill the demand and help educate the public about the many health benefits of mushrooms. Lauren began incorporating mushrooms into her diet in her mid-20s and leaned heavily on lion’s mane mushrooms during her recovery from severe heatstroke a few years ago. For Aaron, the foray into container farming is a return of sorts to his family’s agricultural roots in Nebraska.

Due to the climatic and capital challenges associated with starting a traditional farm in the mountains, the founders of Tooth & Gill discovered FarmBox Foods and realized the shipping container model gave them a path forward to growing sustainably year-round in a rugged region where farming isn’t typically viable. They were drawn to mushrooms while exploring holistic and functional ways to heal and saw how underutilized gourmet mushrooms are as a wellness food.

In addition to a variety of fresh mushrooms, Tooth & Gill recently created its own line of powder extracts and dehydrated mushrooms (available via online order). Lauren’s career was in marketing for a supplement company, and there’s been a noticeable change in approach over the years.

“Wellness has shifted. People want to take care of themselves, but you also want to treat yourself. It has to taste good,” she said.

With that in mind, Tooth & Gill has a collection of recipes on its website that incorporate mushrooms into everyday dishes. To learn more about Tooth & Gill or to schedule an interview with the owners, send an email to hello@toothngill.com or call 602-828-8153. If you own or manage a store and want their products on your shelves, use the above contact information to reach out.

Food System Resiliency in a Box, No Matter Where You Live

For centuries, the ability to grow food has been bound by geography. Fertile soil, predictable weather and access to water determined who could farm and who could not. But a new era in agricultural technology is set to dismantle those boundaries, giving people everywhere the power to grow their own food, regardless of climate, location or experience. From the frozen outskirts of Alaska to the heart of desert cities, innovations in controlled-environment agriculture (CEA) are reshaping what it means to be self-sufficient.

At the core of this movement are systems designed to make farming as accessible as it is sustainable. Container farms, vertical gardens and modular hydroponic units are transforming empty lots, parking garages and even rooftops into thriving centers of food production. These systems use precise sensors and automation to control every variable — from temperature and humidity to light spectrum and nutrient delivery — creating optimal growing conditions 365 days a year. The result is reliable, pesticide-free food that can be harvested within walking distance of the people who will eat it.

For families and communities once disconnected from the source of their food, this technology offers more than convenience; it restores agency. No longer dependent on global supply chains or industrial farms, people can now produce mushrooms, fresh greens, herbs and even some fruits with minimal land and water use. It’s a form of empowerment that reaches beyond nourishment; it reconnects humans with nature in a way that fits our modern, urbanized lives. A shipping container on the edge of town can now provide thousands of pounds of produce annually, feeding schools, hospitals and neighborhoods that historically have faced food insecurity.

Emerging ag tech is also bridging cultural and economic divides. In developing regions where arable land is scarce or drought is common, compact, solar-powered systems allow for year-round harvests. In major cities, startups are pairing automation with education, helping residents learn the science of growing and inspiring a new generation of urban farmers. Every innovation, from AI-driven irrigation systems to seed-to-harvest data analytics, is refining the process and making local food production more efficient and attainable than ever before.

As climate shifts challenge traditional agriculture, these technologies are proving to be more than a novelty; they’re a blueprint for resilience. They reduce water consumption by up to 95 percent, eliminate the need for chemical pesticides and drastically reduce food miles, cutting emissions tied to transport and storage. More importantly, they shift the narrative from dependence to participation. Food is no longer something that happens on distant farmland; it’s something that can thrive anywhere people choose.

The democratization of food production marks a turning point in human history. Agriculture began as a means of survival and evolved into an industry. Now, with emerging ag tech, it’s coming full circle, returning to individuals and communities who can once again grow what sustains them. It’s a movement defined not by scale, but by access, creativity and connection. And as the technology continues to advance, it carries with it a simple but transformative promise: no matter where you live, you can cultivate your own future.

The Many Benefits of Modular Farming

In recent years, interest in container farming has grown rapidly as communities, entrepreneurs and institutions look for ways to build a more sustainable and resilient food system. Using insulated shipping containers that are retrofitted for agriculture, these farms are transforming the way food is produced and distributed. Whether referred to as farm containers, a farm in a container or a container vertical farm, this model of food production is redefining what it means to grow fresh, local food.

What Is Container Farming?

At its core, container farming is the practice of growing crops inside repurposed shipping containers that are equipped with advanced climate control and growing systems. These farms often use hydroponics in a shipping container, allowing plants to grow in nutrient-rich water rather than soil. The result is a tightly controlled environment that minimizes resource use while maximizing yield.

A container farm can be installed almost anywhere, from urban parking lots and rural communities to universities, hospitals and corporate campuses. With modular systems, such as a vertical farm container, operators can expand their production capacity as needed. This flexibility is one of the main reasons why container farming companies are gaining attention worldwide.

Key Advantages of Container Farming

Year-Round Food Production

One of the greatest advantages of a shipping container farm is its ability to produce crops consistently throughout the year. Traditional farming is often disrupted by weather, pests or drought, but a shipping container vertical farm uses controlled lighting, humidity and temperature to ensure steady growth.

Resource Efficiency

Container farming is designed for efficiency. With hydroponic farming containers, plants use up to 95% less water compared to traditional agriculture. Vertical designs and hydroponic grow containers maximize space while conserving nutrients and energy. Many farms even integrate renewable energy solutions, such as solar-powered or insulated farm containers, to reduce operating costs and environmental impact.

Food Security and Local Access

By producing food close to the point of consumption, container farms reduce the distance food travels. A farm-in-a-box shipping container can serve schools, grocery stores and restaurants within the same community. This reduces transportation emissions, shortens supply chains and strengthens food security. For institutions or nonprofits, container farms provide a reliable way to grow fresh produce in underserved areas.

Scalability and Commercial Opportunities

For entrepreneurs, container farms represent a clear business opportunity. Companies can start small with a single container hydroponic farm and expand into multiple container farms for sale as demand grows. Specialty products, such as herbs or microgreens, thrive in hydroponic shipping container farms, making it possible to supply local markets with premium goods.

Specialty Crop Cultivation: Gourmet Mushrooms

Beyond leafy greens and herbs, container systems are ideal for specialty crops like mushrooms. A mushroom container farm provides the perfect humidity and temperature for varieties such as oyster and lion’s mane mushrooms. Businesses interested in gourmet mushroom cultivation are finding that a mushroom shipping container offers predictable, scalable yields. Restaurants, grocers and local markets are increasingly sourcing from growing mushrooms in shipping containers because of their consistent quality and freshness.

Resilient, Climate-Smart Farming

Extreme weather and climate change have put a strain on traditional agriculture, but container agriculture offers resilience. Because they are protected and controlled environments, container farms are insulated from droughts, hail, floods or unexpected frosts. This makes them a dependable food source in regions facing environmental instability.

Applications Across Industries

Urban Farming: A shipping container grow pod can turn unused lots into food production sites.

Education: Schools and universities are using vertical farming in shipping containers to teach students about sustainability, technology and nutrition.

Hospitality: Hotels, resorts and restaurants benefit from having fresh herbs and greens grown on-site in a container vertical farm.

Animal Feed: A fodder farm or hydroponic farms for animal feed inside containers ensures reliable, nutrient-rich food for livestock.

Technology Driving the Movement

The success of container farming is powered by innovations in vertical hydroponics, LED lighting and automated monitoring systems. Advanced sensors track nutrient levels, while sensor-based climate control monitors and adjusts to keep plants thriving. This combination of container farming technology and renewable energy integration helps reduce labor and overhead while producing more food in less space.

The Economic Case for Container Farms

While many first hear about the environmental benefits of container farming, the economic advantages are equally important. A shipping container farm for sale can generate steady revenue for farmers, small businesses and nonprofits alike. Mushroom farms, in particular, are very profitable, with 70-percent profit margins common when selling a mix of wholesale and retail. By supplying local communities directly, operators cut out costly middlemen (and women) while keeping margins healthy. Additionally, with financing programs available to fund a container farm, the initial investment is more accessible than ever, especially when lease-to-own options are available.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Food Production

As demand for fresh, locally grown food continues to rise, container farming will play an even bigger role in shaping the agricultural landscape. Container hydroponics farms, mushroom production systems and modular vertical farms offer scalable solutions to global food insecurity. They provide a sustainable alternative that doesn’t just supplement traditional farming but enhances it, making food systems more resilient, efficient and adaptable.

Communities everywhere are beginning to embrace the concept of a farm in container agriculture model, not only because it addresses immediate needs like food security and water conservation, but also because it represents a long-term shift toward sustainable living.

Farm to School Grant Application Period Now Open

The USDA has launched its FY 2026 Patrick Leahy Farm to School Grant Program, committing up to $18 million to projects that link farmers, especially small and medium producers, with child nutrition programs (e.g. schools, child care, summer meal sites). See the press release here.

In short: USDA is reviving and enhancing its farm-to-school grant program, making more funds and more flexible rules available to help farmers and school/child nutrition programs connect more directly. The application deadline for FY 2026 is Dec. 5.

This year’s version of the program includes new changes meant to lower barriers, streamline applications and promote innovation and stronger partnerships. Eligible uses include:

– Incorporating locally grown, minimally processed foods into meals served in child-nutrition settings. Find more info here, including eligibility requirements.

– Providing training to producers on procurement and food safety standards.

– Integrating agricultural education (e.g. school gardens, field trips, farm visits) into school or child-nutrition curricula.

– The grants are competitive, and individual award sizes range from $100,000 to $500,000.

Eligible applicants include state and local agencies, tribal organizations, child nutrition program operators, agricultural producers or groups of producers, nonprofit organizations and local agencies, though many of these must apply as part of a partnership.

How and where to apply

The websites to apply for funding depend on sector, region and project type, so it’s not a one-size-fits-all.

Grants.gov
This is the go-to U.S. federal portal for discovering and applying for federal grants. Many USDA / federal opportunities are published there.
- The Farm to School grant (above) is posted on the USDA / FNS site and linked via Grants.gov.
USDA / USDA Food & Nutrition Service (FNS) / USDA’s “Grants & Funding” pages
Because this specific program is administered by USDA / FNS, their own site provides authoritative details, eligibility requirements, application instructions and updates.
State or local agricultural / food / education agencies
Depending on your state, state agencies often host listings of state-level grants or cooperative matches. It looks like these are easier to win than large federal grants.
Foundations / philanthropic grant portals
For non-government grants, platforms like Foundation Directory, GrantStation, or Candid (formerly Foundation Center) can help you find private funding sources.
Specialized programs in your thematic area

For example, in the sustainable agriculture/farm/food systems space, programs like SARE (Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education) are relevant.

Vote for the Vertical Hydroponic Farm as the ‘Coolest Thing Made in Colorado’

Voting Opens for the Coolest Thing Made in Colorado “People’s Choice” Award

DENVER – Online voting opened today for the Colorado Chamber’s Coolest Thing Made in Colorado People’s Choice award (edit: voting concluded on Oct.. 6, 2025). The fourth annual contest celebrates the vibrant and diverse manufacturing industry across the state.

“The People’s Choice award is one of the most exciting parts of this contest as it gives Coloradans the chance to support their favorite products from local businesses across the state,” said Colorado Chamber President and CEO Loren Furman. “These finalists showcase the creativity and innovation happening in Colorado, and we’re excited to see which product will stand out as this year’s People’s Choice!”

FarmBox Foods’ Vertical Hydroponic Farm was named as a top-10 finalist last month.

“Southwest is proud to champion the People’s Choice at Coolest Thing Made in Colorado, honoring innovation and celebrating the best of Colorado’s businesses and communities,” said Lexi Muller, senior regional manager of corporate responsibility at Southwest Airlines, the People’s Choice sponsor.

Voters can select up to three of their favorite products from the top 10 finalists list for the Coolest Thing Made in Colorado. Individuals can vote once per day until voting closes on October 6. The Colorado Chamber will announce winners of both the People’s Choice award and the Coolest Thing Made in Colorado top winner on Oct. 23 at the Coolest Thing Made Awards Banquet.

Voting is open now through October 6. Votes can be cast on the Coolest Thing Made in Colorado website here: https://coolestthingcolorado.com/peoples-choice.

The Colorado Chamber’s Coolest Thing Made in Colorado contest is presented by FirstBank, and the People’s Choice Award is sponsored by Southwest Airlines.

Watch the Chamber’s promotional video featuring all 10 finalists for the People’s Choice award here.

Making Farming Accessible, Achievable for the Next Generation of Growers

There’s a time in almost every industry when an impactful shift upends what doing business looks like.

Farming has always been the backbone of society, but for many young people today, the idea of becoming a farmer feels out of reach. Land is expensive, climate conditions are unpredictable and the upfront costs of equipment and infrastructure can be overwhelming. That’s where automated container farms come in, offering a new pathway for the next generation of farmers to thrive.

Unlike traditional models, container farms don’t require hundreds of acres or decades of experience passed down from family. They’re compact, climate-controlled and highly efficient. Most importantly, they harness automation and technology, which makes them a natural fit for younger generations who grew up with smartphones, data analytics and digital tools at their fingertips. With sensors that monitor and control environmental conditions, automated watering and nutrient delivery systems, and detailed dashboards that track results, farming suddenly becomes less about guesswork and more about innovation.

This shift doesn’t just make agriculture more approachable, it makes it exciting. Young people who might never have considered farming can now view it as a career rooted in technology, sustainability and entrepreneurship. Container farms offer consistent, year-round production regardless of outside weather conditions, which speaks directly to a generation deeply concerned about climate change and food security. The controlled environment also uses a fraction of the water and land required by traditional farming, aligning with values of environmental stewardship that many young people hold close.

At the same time, container farms double as living classrooms. Schools, universities and community organizations are already using them to teach students about biology, engineering, natural resources, coding and even business management. Hands-on experience with these systems not only connects learners to where food comes from, but also equips them with skills they can carry into careers in ag-tech, sustainability or entrepreneurship. It’s a form of education that blends science with purpose, and it leaves a lasting impression.

Perhaps most empowering of all is the way container farms connect young people to their communities. These systems allow farmers to grow fresh food locally, reduce reliance on long supply chains and provide nutritious produce to underserved areas. Many young entrepreneurs are finding purpose in this mission, using container farms to build small businesses that serve both their neighborhoods and the environment. By removing many of the traditional barriers to farming, container farms open the door to opportunity and impact.

At its core, this movement is about redefining what it means to be a farmer. Agriculture is no longer confined to wide-open fields and unpredictable harvests. With the rise of automated container farms, farming has become a forward-thinking, tech-enabled career choice that blends innovation with sustainability. For the next generation, it’s not just about growing food—it’s about shaping the future of our food systems in a way that is accessible, resilient, and deeply meaningful.

Hydroponically grown trees planted by CORE Electric Cooperative

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CORE Electric Cooperative, FarmBox Foods & HRCA Partner
to Plant Hydroponically Grown Trees in Backcountry Wilderness Area

Douglas County, Colo. (Aug. 25, 2025) – CORE Electric Cooperative, FarmBox Foods and the Highlands Ranch Community Association (HRCA) Backcountry Wilderness Area came together on August 20 to plant blue spruce trees grown in a hydroponic farm, marking an innovative step toward sustainable reforestation
(watch the video).

The trees, a native species to Colorado, were cultivated in a FarmBox Foods vertical hydroponic container farm owned by CORE Electric Cooperative. The effort is part of a larger collaboration between the electricity distributor and FarmBox Foods to explore how hydroponic technology can support large-scale propagation of native trees. By collecting data on the growing process, the partners aim to strengthen future reforestation initiatives by partnersacross the state.

“We can safely say this is the first program of its kind. It’s fun to be part of such a unique partnership that’s doing something good for the community and allows us to conduct research,” said Chris Michlewicz, vice president of communications for FarmBox Foods.

The planting took place in the HRCA Backcountry Wilderness Area, an 8,200-acre expanse of protected land dedicated to conservation, recreation and outdoor education. Joining the effort were children from the Wild Roots, a year-round, nature-based early childhood program. With guidance from staff from the HRCA, FarmBox Foods and CORE Electric Cooperative, the preschoolers eagerly participated in planting the saplings, making the event both educational and hands-on.

“While we sometimes need to remove trees to protect the electrical system, it’s incredibly rewarding to be part of a program that helps restore them to the environment,” said Kevin Perkins, vegetation manager for CORE Electric Cooperative.

The HRCA will oversee the long-term care of the trees while FarmBox Foods will periodically monitor their progress and health. Together, the organizations hope to demonstrate how advanced farming methods can complement traditional land stewardship practices.

“The young trees we planted in the Backcountry Wilderness Area show the growth that’s possible when organizations like CORE and FarmBox Foods align with a conservation-focused nonprofit. Planted by preschool-aged kids, the small sprouts now have the chance to grow and thrive alongside the children who placed them in the soil — rooting both in the future of our local wild place,” said Lindsey McKissick, communications manager for the Backcountry Wilderness Area.

Container Farming a Fulfilling Option for Retirees and Military Vets

The modern-day adage says that most people switch careers approximately 5 times in their life. Maybe you’re perfectly fine with your current job, but it feels like you’ve hit a ceiling. Or maybe the spark just isn’t there anymore, and the work that once kept you engaged doesn’t interest you the way it used to. That’s when the idea of trying something completely different starts to sound appealing—stepping into a new role, learning new skills and finding fresh energy in a new career path.

Farming inside a controlled-climate shipping container is increasingly seen as an attractive business option for retirees, military veterans and individuals seeking a fresh start in their careers. Unlike traditional farming, which often demands backbreaking labor, large tracts of land and a willingness to gamble with unpredictable weather, container farming offers a streamlined, modern alternative that lowers the barriers to entry (especially financially) and creates opportunities for people at different stages of life.

For retirees, container farming provides a way to stay active, socially engaged and purpose-focused without overextending physically or financially. Many retirees crave a second act that balances meaningful contribution with flexibility, and operating a container farm offers exactly that. Because the system is automated and climate-controlled, retirees can manage their farms with part-time effort—often just a few hours each day—while producing something tangible and beneficial for their community. It’s also a potential legacy project, something that can be passed on to children or grandchildren (learn about a FarmBox customer in Nebraska who decided to start a family-run farming business in 2023).

For military veterans, container farming offers both structure and mission. Veterans are well-suited for this kind of work because they’re trained in logistics, operations and discipline, all skills that directly translate to farming within a controlled environment. Many veterans also feel a deep desire to serve their communities after military service, and food production provides an outlet for that calling. Programs that connect veterans with farming often highlight the therapeutic benefits of working with plants and the pride that comes with producing food for others. Plus, reentering the normal workforce comes with its fair share of challenges. Container farms in particular offer an achievable path into agriculture without the steep startup costs of traditional farms.

For career changers, container farming is a pathway into entrepreneurship in a growing industry. Professionals who are leaving corporate jobs or shifting after economic changes often seek work that is more purposeful and personally fulfilling. A container farm offers flexibility, scalability and the ability to tie their new career to emerging trends in sustainability, local food and health. With demand for locally sourced produce continuing to rise among restaurants, schools, hospitals and consumers, container farmers are well-positioned to build profitable businesses while also making a social impact.

Ultimately, container farming blends technology, sustainability and community service into a business model that suits people seeking meaningful, manageable and future-oriented work. For retirees, it’s a way to stay vibrant. For veterans, it’s a new mission. For career changers, it’s a rewarding gateway into purposeful entrepreneurship.

Celebrating the Launch of FarmBox Foods Fresh

FarmBox Foods celebrated a ribbon-cutting event on Aug. 14 to mark the official launch of FarmBox Foods Fresh, a new subsidiary focused on producing high-quality, chef-grade gourmet mushrooms, greens and herbs for restaurants, chefs and home cooks in Colorado and beyond. The fresh produce is grown entirely in shipping container-based farms built by FarmBox Foods.

Leaders from FarmBox Foods Fresh and the South Metro Denver Chamber of Commerce cut the ribbon to mark the occasion.

Operating out of its headquarters in Sedalia, Colo., FarmBox Foods Fresh offers a wide variety of flavorful, nutrient-rich mushrooms cultivated in a controlled-climate environment to ensure year-round availability and sustainability. Greens and herbs will soon be added to the menu. With regular weekly harvests and flexible pickup and delivery options available Monday through Friday, FarmBox Foods Fresh is redefining what it means to “eat local.”

“We’re excited to bring a new level of quality and consistency to Colorado’s fresh produce scene, especially mushrooms,” said Rusty Walker, CEO of FarmBox Foods. “This venture reflects our commitment to sustainable agriculture and our passion for providing access to healthy, locally grown food.”

The current gourmet mushroom selection includes lion’s mane, blue oysters and black king trumpets. FarmBox Foods Fresh will soon offer even more gourmet mushrooms, including chestnut, golden oyster, king blue oyster, pink oyster, king trumpets and snow oyster varieties. Prices range from $7 to $12 per pound depending on quantity, and pre-orders are now being accepted for upcoming varieties.

Whether you’re a professional chef seeking unique ingredients or a home cook looking to elevate your meals, FarmBox Foods Fresh delivers mushrooms that are as beautiful as they are delicious.

FarmBox Foods Fresh

5389 Plum Ave.

Sedalia, CO 80135

303-285-4076

www.farmboxfoodsfresh.com

Vertical Hydroponic Farm in the Top 10 for Coolest Thing Made in Colorado

FarmBox Foods’ Vertical Hydroponic Farm was named among the top 10 finalists for this year’s Coolest Thing Made in Colorado competition put on by the Colorado Chamber. See the press release below!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 7, 2025

Contact: CynthiaE@cochamber.com

Top Ten Finalists for 2025 Coolest Thing Made in Colorado Contest Announced

DENVER – The Colorado Chamber of Commerce today announced the top ten finalists for its fourth annual Coolest Thing Made in Colorado competition sponsored by FirstBank.

“This year’s top ten finalists represent Colorado innovation in so many ways,” said Loren Furman, President and CEO of the Colorado Chamber of Commerce. “From breakthroughs in space technology to products that support our farmers, protect our environment, and celebrate our love for the outdoors, these finalists reflect what makes Colorado such a unique place to live and work. We’re proud to highlight these amazing companies and look forward to celebrating them in October.”

The finalists were chosen by an independent selection committee who reviewed and assessed each nomination. The finalists will be honored at the Colorado Chamber’s Coolest Thing Awards Banquet on October 23, where the 2025 winner will be announced and presented with the Coolest Thing Made in Colorado trophy. The Chamber will also announce special categories of winners, including a “People’s Choice” award based on an online voting tool that will launch in the coming weeks.

The Coolest Thing Made in Colorado top ten finalists are as follows:

AE.1 Cosmos by Lightship

The AE.1 Cosmos is the first all-electric aero-electric travel trailer with a 77 kilowatt-hour battery and rooftop solar panels that create a fully self-contained power system. Made in Broomfield, its aerodynamic design and TrekDrive assist system improve towing efficiency and provide up to a week of off-grid living, offering a quiet and low-maintenance option for travel.

AIEye by HapWare

AIEye is a wearable assistive technology that translates nonverbal communication cues such as facial expressions, gestures and body language into discreet haptic feedback for people who are blind, low vision or autistic. The device pairs smart glasses with an integrated camera and a wristband to detect over 25 visual social cues and translates them into distinct, intuitive vibration patterns on the wrist. Made in Golden, AIEye is built for real-world durability, speed and ease of use.

Austere Remediation Unit (ARU-10T) by Austere Environmental

The Austere Remediation Unit (ARU-10T) cleans 10 tons of diesel-contaminated soil per day, removing 99.99% of pollutants and recovering the diesel for reuse. Developed in Golden, Colorado, the system helps prevent water contamination, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and keeps contaminated soil out of landfills, offering a cleaner and more sustainable solution for waste management.

Autonomous Nano Tractor (ANT) by Barn Owl Precision Agriculture

The Autonomous Nano Tractor (ANT) is a fully electric, self-driving mini tractor engineered in La Junta, Colorado, for small to midsize farms. It handles precision row-crop tasks like weeding, targeted spraying, and planting support, cutting manual labor by more than 50% and reducing input costs by about 30%. Its modular design and advanced computer vision make it a scalable, low-maintenance solution for both regenerative and conventional farms.

Clarity-1 by Albedo

Clarity-1, developed by Albedo in Broomfield, is the first commercial very-low-Earth-orbit (VELO) satellite to 10-centimeter visible imagery and 2-meter long-wave infrared data in a single pass. Launched in March 2025, it marks a breakthrough in multispectral imaging, providing unprecedented detail for applications from city planning to climate research.

Innovaflex Arrays by InnovaFlex Foundry

The InnovaFlex Arrays, manufactured in Colorado Springs, are complex electrical systems built on glass or flexible materials that enable the measurement or application of electrical signals. These arrays have multiple uses, including “Organ-on-a-Chip” applications that allow researchers to study how human tissue responds to pharmaceuticals or treatments, reducing the need for animal testing and supporting more personalized medical approaches.

Laser Maze Challenge by Funovation

The Laser Maze Challenge, manufactured in Longmont, is an interactive attraction where players navigate glowing laser beams, racing against time in three unique game modes that test agility, speed and strategy. With immersive lighting, video replays, and a live leaderboard, it delivers an action-packed experience for families, thrill-seekers and competitive gamers.

Spectra Optia Apheresis System by Terumo Blood and Cell Technologies

The Spectra Optia Apheresis System, developed in Lakewood, is an industry-leading platform for therapeutic apheresis, cell processing, and cell collection, capable of separating and returning blood components while targeting specific cells for treatment or research. First introduced in 2007, it’s now used in over 125 countries to support procedures for hematologic disorders, rare diseases and emerging cell therapies.

The Narwhals by Apex Cool Labs

Manufactured in Boulder, the Narwhals are portable cooling devices designed to quickly reduce core body temperature by targeting specialized vasculature in the palms. Used by professional athletes, firefighters, construction workers, and others exposed to extreme heat, Narwhals help improve heart rate recovery, extend work capacity and provide lasting relief from heat stress in demanding environments.

Vertical Hydroponic Farm by FarmBox Foods

The Vertical Hydroponic Farm, manufactured in Aurora, uses patented vertical farming technology inside upcycled shipping containers to maximize growing space while minimizing water and energy use. These solar-capable, climate-controlled farms enable year-round cultivation of mushrooms, leafy greens and herbs almost anywhere in the world.

Learn more about the Coolest Thing Made in Colorado contest at www.CoolestThingColorado.com.

The Colorado Chamber of Commerce champions free enterprise, a healthy business environment and economic prosperity for all Coloradans. It is the only business association that works to improve the business climate for all sizes of business from a statewide, multi-industry perspective. What the Colorado Chamber accomplishes is good for all businesses, and that’s good for the state’s economy. It was created in 1965 based on the merger with the Colorado Manufacturers’ Association.