KC startup pairs with blockchain platform to build trust, value in premium beef genetics
January 31, 2024 | Startland News Staff
A newly announced strategic collaboration is expected to help Lenexa-based Vytelle promote the value of feeder cattle, while simultaneously bringing more transparency to a critical market segment within the beef industry.
The initiative between Vytelle and BlockTrust Network — an API-driven platform that leverages blockchain technology to enhance trust within the beef supply chain — marks the first of its kind aimed to leverage their respective strengths targeting the feeder cattle market.
“We are thrilled to embark on this groundbreaking collaboration with Blocktrust,” said Kerryann Kocher, CEO of Vytelle, the fastest growing, independent IVF company and curator of the world’s largest feed efficiency database.
Collaboration is a step forward in building markets that acknowledge the value of premium genetics for Vytelle’s seedstock customers by increasing the demand for their progeny, she added.
Leveraging the power of the Vytelle’s industry leadership in characterizing feed efficient genetics, Vytelle will develop tools to characterize differences in feed efficiency among groups of feeder cattle via the Blocktrust Network’s permissioned blockchain, the company said. This information will provide buyers unique insights on the value of cattle, shining a spotlight on the premium value of calves sired by bulls from breeding programs that are driving genetic improvement in feed efficiency, a critical driver of profitability and sustainability in cattle feeding.
“Blockchain technology has proven to be a transformative force across various industries and Blocktrust Network is thrilled to bring a new level of transparency to the beef supply chain,” said Gregg Barfield, CEO of Blocktrust Network, which is headquartered in College Station, Texas. “The opportunity to classify cattle individually based on their genetics and performance through harvest will unlock markets and value for smaller producers to participate in quality-driven sustainable supply chains.”
Featured Business

2024 Startups to Watch
stats here
Related Posts on Startland News
Victor Hwang leaving Kauffman VP role; entrepreneurship becomes national priority ahead of 2020 political cycle
Ecosystem building has risen to the national conversation — marking the right moment for Victor Hwang to exit the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation and its vision-rich entrepreneurship team, he said. “A few years ago, people would talk about supporting entrepreneurs as if they were disconnected individuals … helping one entrepreneur at a time or maybe…
BacklotCars taking over full floor of new Lightwell building following $25M funding round
A 20,000-square-foot space in one of Kansas City’s most recently remodeled downtown office buildings will allow BacklotCars room to continue expanding its team, while also impressing high-level targets, said Josh Parsons. “The location, design and amenities of the project are exactly what is needed to attract the top tech talent to Kansas City,” said Parsons,…
RFP360 doubles in size since December; team back under one roof with move to new space
RFP360 is coming full circle, said Stuart Ludlow, as the software company he co-founded with David Hulsen in the Kansas City Startup Village once again levels up to accommodate a swelling team and increasing market demand. “We’re moving into a place — scale and scope — that Dave and I envisioned,” said Ludlow, who also…


