Skip to content
39North Logo

We’re on a mission to elevate St. Louis’ vibrant agtech ecosystem and build a global hub for innovation and talent.

Who We Are

We’re scientists. We’re founders. We’re investors. We’re farmers. We’re innovators. We’re problem solvers. We are STLMade.

39 North is a vibrant, diverse community working in proximity with one another, sharing ideas, networks, and cutting-edge equipment and facilities. Our district is anchored by Bayer Crop Science and the Danforth Plant Science Center, and within our facilities, including the Helix Center BioTech Incubator, the BRDG Park and EDGE@BRDG buildings, more than 35 growing agtech companies call 39 North home.

Our district isn’t just a collection of buildings, it’s also a hub to connect people with new ideas and with one another, fostering a community that not only supports, but also helps to create and accelerate innovation.

39 North Corn logo

Meet the Team

Emily Lohse-Busch

Executive Director

Emily has built her career sustaining and scaling organizations that improve the human condition, and in recent years, her focus has been on leading organizations that help create a thriving economy and culture that benefits all St. Louisans. In her role as Executive Director at 39 North, Emily leads the organization’s efforts to make the St. Louis agtech ecosystem world-class, world-changing, and world-renowned.

Emily Lohse Busch potrait

Dr. Rishi Masalia

Program Director

A plant scientist and serial entrepreneur in the agtech and climate sectors, Rishi is passionate about innovation, community building, and amplifying science.

Dr. Rishi Masalia portrait

Sarah LaPlante

Community Manager

Originally from Portland, Oregon, Sarah moved to St. Louis to attend Washington University. With an MSW focused on economic development, she is dedicated to helping build a stronger, more vibrant St. Louis community.

Sarah LaPlante portrait

Board of Directors

Mike DeCamp portrait

Mike DeCamp

CoverCress Inc.

Board Chair

Chris Danforth potrait

Chris Danforth

Kennelwood Pet Resorts

Board Member

Nikki Davis headshot

F. Nikki Davis

Climate LLC

Board Member

Geoffrey King portrait

Geoffrey King

Greater St. Louis, Inc.

Board Member

Tim Nowak portrait

Tim Nowak

World Trade Center St. Louis

Board Member

Karla Roeber portrait

Karla Roeber

Donald Danforth Plant Science Center

Board Member

Brian Salmo potrait

Brian Salmo

Hermann Companies

Board Member

Mark Perkins potrait

Mark Perkins

City of Creve Coeur

Board Observer