Saluna is an agtech startup focused on developing industrial hemp as a sustainable, high-ROI alternative to traditional row crops, providing engineered seeds designed for optimized performance in Midwestern and Southern climates.
Saluna, Inc. is an agricultural technology company founded in 2023 that specializes in the development of industrial hemp as a competitive alternative to traditional Midwestern row crops like corn and soybeans. The firm utilizes modern plant breeding, genomics, and phenotyping technologies to engineer high-quality hemp seeds designed to thrive in Midwestern and Southern growing conditions. By focusing on crops with reduced THC levels below 0.3%, Saluna aims to provide farmers with a sustainable, hardy, and economically viable option for the oil and feed markets, requiring minimal equipment modifications for cultivation.
This initiative addresses the need for greater planting choices among agricultural entrepreneurs by offering a crop that delivers improved return on investment, enhanced soil health, and superior nutritional profiles. Headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, the company has established significant research infrastructure, including an expansion into the Southeast Missouri State University Sikeston campus for seed trials and field testing. By bridging urban innovation with rural agricultural resources, Saluna supports regional workforce development and provides growers with tools to diversify their productivity and improve long-term financial outcomes.