Chipotle Invests in Regenerative Farming, New-Age Fertilizer

The brand’s venture fund continues to invest in companies that help further its mission and growth plans.

December 15, 2023

Greenfield Robotics' fleets of lightweight autonomous robots cut weeds between rows of broadacre crops, day or night, reducing dependence on herbicides while supporting regenerative farming practices and reducing risk for farmers, Chipotle says. Photo courtesy of Chipotle.

Chipotle has announced two minority investments through its Cultivate Next venture fund. It will invest in Greenfield Robotics, which provides regenerative agriculture solutions, and Nitricity, which seeks to tackle greenhouse gas emissions by creating fertilizer products that are better for fields, farmers and the environment.

Cultivate Next makes early-stage investments into companies that further Chipotle’s mission to “cultivate a better world” and help accelerate the company’s aggressive growth plans. Other investments include the maker of its automated digital makeline that dispenses a customer’s desired, portioned ingredients to build bowls and salads, and the creator of its robot that reduces guacamole prep time.

Chipotle has over 3,300 restaurants in the United States, Canada, the U.K., France and Germany.