Pivot Bio, a cutting-edge leader in ag-tech, recently announced that it has expanded in Hazelwood, investing more than $20 million and creating 41 new jobs. The sustainable agriculture company’s expansion includes the establishment of an approximately 47,000-square-foot facility that will increase its capabilities for research, testing, and development of product applications.
“Pivot Bio’s growth in Hazelwood is exciting news for our state’s growing ag-tech industry,” said Governor Mike Parson. “As Missouri continues to be a leader on the national stage, this expansion will further strengthen our status as a thriving hub for tech and agriculture. We look forward to Pivot Bio’s success and the positive impact of its groundbreaking technology.”
Pivot Bio is driven by a commitment to make farming more productive and sustainable. Faced with rising pressure on natural resources and a growing population to feed, growers want nitrogen that is reliable, predictable, and better for the environment. Pivot Bio’s technology meets the demands for nitrogen consistency and dependability by enabling microbes to adhere and remain on the roots of the plant throughout the growing season, delivering nitrogen to the crop with nearly 100 percent efficiency.
Today, Pivot Bio has made microbial production of nitrogen, a discovery long sought after by scientists, commercially available for the first time. To support its continued growth, the company’s new Hazelwood location will focus on the development, production, and manufacturing of its latest product and agriculture’s first-ever on-seed nitrogen technology. Pivot Bio’s proprietary tech platform is primarily focused on cereal crops.
“We’re thrilled to see an industry leader like Pivot Bio contributing to our state’s fast-growing ag-tech sector,” said Michelle Hataway, Acting Director of the Department of Economic Development. “This company is developing innovative solutions for agriculture while bringing new jobs and investment to Hazelwood. We’re grateful for our partners who are helping Missourians prosper through their assistance with this exciting project.”
For this expansion, Pivot Bio will benefit from the Missouri Works Program, a tool that helps companies expand and retain workers by providing access to capital through withholdings or tax credits for job creation.
What others are saying
“The City of Hazelwood has experienced a great deal of growth and investment over the years due to our tactical use of incentives,” said Hazelwood Mayor Matt Robinson. “We are especially excited about Pivot Bio given this is an innovative ag-tech industry that will produce quality jobs for the long term.”
“When analyzing possible locations for this large investment, the City of Hazelwood’s deep commitment to economic development and to supporting our client’s growth resonated with us and our client, making a critical business decision like this one possible,” said Doug Rasmussen, Managing Principal and CEO of Steadfast City.
“The expansion of Pivot Bio's footprint in the City of Hazelwood is another example of how businesses are prospering in our service territory,” said Mark Birk, President and Chairman of Ameren Missouri. “We are thrilled they chose to grow their business in North County by building a new research facility and adding new jobs, which benefits the entire local community. Ameren Missouri’s Smart Energy Plan continues to be instrumental in making the region more attractive for businesses to grow here while also providing reliable energy to power the communities we serve.”
About the Missouri Department of Economic Development
The Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED) works to create an environment that encourages economic growth by supporting Missouri’s businesses and diverse industries, strengthening our communities, developing a talented and skilled workforce, and maintaining a high quality of life. As one team built around the customer and driven by data, DED aspires to be the best economic development department in the Midwest. Through its various initiatives, DED is helping create opportunities for Missourians to prosper.
For the latest updates on DED’s current or future programs and initiatives, visit DED’s website.
About the Missouri Works Program
As the state’s number one incentive tool for expansion and retention, the Missouri Works Program helps businesses access capital through withholdings or tax credits to embark on facility expansions and create jobs. This program can also help businesses purchase equipment to maintain its facility in Missouri.
About Steadfast City
Built upon a driving philosophy of develop better, Steadfast City weaves together government, business, economic development, real estate, and social and philanthropic sectors in a more aligned and impactful way. Its purpose is rooted in elevating businesses that create jobs, real estate developers who rebuild neighborhoods, cities that need revitalization, organizations that effectuate positive change, and people who benefit from all of these working together. Steadfast City’s team of economic development, community development, and non-profit consultants have diverse backgrounds, broad expertise, and passion for their work. This unique combination gives Steadfast City an expansive and flexible collection of skillsets and services.
To learn more about Steadfast City, visit steadfastcity.com.