Cargill Wins 2026 BIG Innovation Award

The company was honored as a Top Innovator for large-scale AI-and-data-driven innovation advancing food security, operational excellence and resilient food systems

MINNEAPOLIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Cargill today announced it has been named a winner in the 2026 BIG Innovation Awards by the Business Intelligence Group and designated as a Top 10 Innovator, recognizing the company’s disciplined approach to innovation across the global food and agriculture system. Cargill was honored in the Innovative Organizations category, alongside a cohort of 159 companies, products and leaders that are transforming industries through applied innovation and measurable real-world impact.

The recognition highlights the breadth and depth of Cargill’s innovation strategy, including the company’s use of automation, robotics, artificial intelligence (AI) and predictive analytics to address interconnected global challenges such as food security, climate change, labor constraints and waste. These capabilities are already delivering measurable outcomes, from the use of CarVe computer vision technology to reduce food waste, to a 30x return on investment (ROI) through Cargill’s Port Optimizer initiative, more than $15 million in documented benefits from manufacturing analytics and a reduction of 31,500 metric tons of CO₂ emissions due to vessel optimization and energy-saving upgrades in 2024.

“Innovation at Cargill is not just about what’s next — it’s about what’s needed,” said Florian Schattenmann, chief technology officer at Cargill. “By embedding AI and advanced analytics in our operations, we are reimagining the way food is made and moved across the globe. This recognition reflects the ingenuity of our teams and the power of innovation to build a more resilient and efficient food system for the future.”

BIG Innovation Award judges praised Cargill’s work as “serious, large-scale innovation executed with discipline, embedded deeply into real operations.” They also commended the company for a comprehensive approach that spans multiple technologies and business lines and is backed by robust data and outcomes.

"The 2026 BIG Innovation Awards winners show that true innovation is no longer about chasing the latest buzzwords," said Russ Fordyce, Chief Recognition Officer at the Business Intelligence Group. "It’s about building intelligent platforms, automating workflows with purpose, and making trust, privacy, and resilience the foundation of every breakthrough. These organizations and leaders are not just keeping pace with change, they are shaping the future of global business."

The 2026 BIG Innovation Awards program honors companies, products and individuals that are reshaping markets across sectors ranging from health and financial services to logistics, manufacturing and enterprise technology. Winning organizations were selected by a panel of experienced business executives, who evaluated nominations based on measurable performance, responsible implementation and the ability to shape the future of work and culture.

For more information about the BIG Innovation Awards and to view the full list of winners, visit www.bintelligence.com/posts/2026-big-innovation-awards-159-trailblazers-prove-where-innovation-is-really-happening.

About Cargill

Cargill is committed to providing food, ingredients, agricultural solutions, and industrial products to nourish the world in a safe, responsible, and sustainable way. Sitting at the heart of the supply chain, we partner with farmers and customers to source, make and deliver products that are vital for living.

Our 155K+ employees innovate with purpose, providing customers with life’s essentials so businesses can grow, communities prosper, and consumers live well. With 160 years of experience as a family company, we look ahead while remaining true to our values. We put people first. We reach higher. We do the right thing—today and for generations to come. For more information, visit Cargill.com and our News Center.

About Business Intelligence Group

The Business Intelligence Group was founded with the mission of recognizing true talent and superior performance in business. Unlike many recognition programs, these awards are evaluated by business leaders and practitioners who reward programs, products, and people that deliver real, quantifiable excellence rather than marketing narratives.