Thomas Grote

Thomas Grote has held a variety of positions in the business world since 1986. Thomas began their career as a Member of the Board of Advisors and Chief Operating Officer at Donatos Pizza, a family-owned and operated company. During their time at Donatos, they helped the company grow from 9 restaurants to 175 plus in multiple markets. In 2006, they served as Chief Financial Officer for Green Biologics Ltd., an international bio-based chemical company headquartered in the UK. In this role, they secured $100 million to fund bench testing, demonstration, and commercialization of new technology. In 2017, Grote co-founded Grote Turner, a consulting firm focused on brand strategy, purpose discovery and alignment, innovation, growth, and operational execution. Thomas also lead the development and opening of the Edge Innovation Hub, which is focused on driving food tech to the Edge with fierce urgency. In 2019, Grote became the Chief Catalyst at Edge Innovation Hub. In 2022, Grote began serving as Chief Executive Officer at Agápe Automation and Director at BeeHex, Inc. 3D Food Printing. BeeHex is a NASA spin-off company that focuses on 3D Food Printing for the bakery industry. Grote also serves as a Member of the Board of Directors at Prescribe FIT, a managed program that includes at-home exercises, nutrition advice, and small lifestyle changes specific to each patient's unique needs. Additionally, Grote is a Member of the Board of Advisors at Grote Company.

Thomas Grote received their MBA from The Wharton School in 2004, with a focus on Entrepreneurship and Marketing. Prior to that, they obtained a BS in Finance from Miami University in 1986.