University of Minnesota Technology Commercialization has launched Superior Fruit Innovations™ (SFI) in collaboration with the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS). This new grower-focused licensing model is designed to expand access to the University’s most advanced apple and grape varieties. Building on more than a century of fruit-breeding excellence—responsible for Honeycrisp, SweeTango®, and Rave®—SFI opens these premium, cold-hardy genetics to orchards of all sizes through a straightforward membership program. The initiative gives grower members across the U.S. and Canada access to varieties such as Rave, SuperSnap™, Big Flirt™, and grape cultivars from the Northern Glo™ series, helping strengthen regional orchards and improve fruit availability for local consumers.
SFI represents a major shift in how the University of Minnesota partners with growers. Rather than offering varieties exclusively through large commercial licensing channels, the program was intentionally designed to reduce barriers and give growers of all sizes access to high-performing fruit genetics. The program reflects a commitment to supporting vibrant local food economies while advancing the University’s land-grant mission.
Beyond its grower benefits, SFI highlights the impact of long-term investment in plant breeding at the University of Minnesota’s Horticultural Research Center and Landscape Arboretum where researchers have spent decades developing varieties celebrated for texture, flavor, disease resistance, and cold hardiness—traits that make them valuable to growers across many climates. With SFI, the University provides a scalable, accessible pathway for bringing these innovations into orchards nationwide, offering a model that connects scientific discovery directly to economic and community impact.
Visit CFANS to learn more about Superior Fruit Innovations.