The University of Minnesota launches Superior Fruit Innovations (SFI), expanding access to its iconic fruit varieties

The University of Minnesota today announced the launch of Superior Fruit Innovations™ (SFI), a new grower-focused licensing model. SFI is specifically designed to bring the U of M’s world-class new varieties to more growers and fruit lovers. For the first time, this model opens up exclusive U of M fruit varieties to direct-market growers who sell straight to consumers and local communities rather than through large distributors. Designed especially for growers of all sizes, SFI provides access to premium apple and table grape varieties, celebrated for the superior flavor, texture, and color that consumers recognize and value in local food systems.

Building on a legacy of excellence

The launch of SFI is the next step in a program recognized as one of the top apple breeding and genetics research programs in the U.S. The apple breeding program began at the U of M in the late 1800s with the goal of developing cold hardy apples that are both high quality and high yielding—and ultimately led to the creation of legendary apple varieties with exceptional texture that people love to eat, including Honeycrisp, SweeTango®, and First Kiss®/RAVE®.

For more than a century, the University’s fruit breeding programs have driven hundreds of millions of dollars in economic value for Minnesota growers and beyond. Iconic varieties like Honeycrisp and SweeTango apples redefined consumer expectations and created premium markets that boost local economies and support thousands of jobs across the fruit supply chain.

The U of M also is known as one of the top grape research programs in the country, with the goal of developing high quality, cold hardy wine and table grapes to benefit growers in Minnesota and the broader cold climate regions. The wine grape breeding program began in the mid-1980s. U of M breeders also are preparing to launch several delicious varieties of seedless table grapes over the next few years.

The U of M has a legacy of pioneering innovative release models for its fruit varieties. While these managed varieties have been successful, the wholesale fruit market is currently facing serious headwinds, including downward price trends, rising production costs, and oversupply.

In contrast, direct-market growers—who sell through orchards, CSAs, farm stands, and local markets—are more insulated from these pressures and are ideally positioned to capitalize on the U of M’s core breeding strengths.

"Superior Fruit Innovations is designed to meet this moment, connecting the U of M’s top-tier fruits, developed through years of world-class research, directly with the growers and consumers who value them most," said Matt Clark, associate professor in the U of M’s Department of Horticultural Science and director of research at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum.

Access and commitment through a land-grant approach 

SFI reflects a foundational land-grant approach to innovation, expanding access to high-quality fruit varieties and supporting the success of a broader, more diverse grower community. By managing the program internally through the University’s Technology Commercialization Office, the U of M ensures these varieties reach growers who are deeply connected to their local food systems and customers.

For the first time, varieties bred by the same team that created industry favorites like Honeycrisp apples are available to growers of all sizes—not just large commercial producers.

“The program is designed to help direct-market growers stand out with fruits that deliver the superior qualities that build customer loyalty,” said Clark. “Growers can use SFI varieties to diversify their offerings, attract more visitors, and potentially command a premium price. Not only that, some of these varieties are ideal for local markets which reduces the challenges of storing or shipping fruit long distances.”

Clark adds that the SFI model strengthens relationships, enhances the visibility of the U of M’s esteemed breeding programs, and demonstrates a commitment to practical, real-world impact. It is a scalable approach that brings research full circle—from the orchard or vineyard to the communities it serves.

How to join the SFI network 

Growers interested in becoming SFI members can fill out the Express Membership License to join, and can contact the program directly at [email protected].

About Superior Fruit Innovations 

Superior Fruit Innovations is led by the University of Minnesota’s Technology Commercialization Office in collaboration with the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS), and the University of Minnesota’s Research and Innovation Office. Fruit breeding research takes place in various University locations, including the Horticultural Research Center located at the University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum.