Karsten Temme took to the international stage June 18, 2025, for the TED Countdown Summit in Nairobi, Kenya. The Pivot Bio co-founder and chief innovation officer was front and center at a gathering that brought together global innovators, business executives, scientists, policymakers, next- generation leaders and artists — all united in their commitment to improve the global food system.

Temme’s presentation was part of a day dedicated to near-horizon moonshots that are shaping the future of agriculture.​ He explained how Pivot Bio’s technology harnesses the power of microbes to give growers reliable sources of nitrogen for corn, cotton and sorghum. Pivot Bio’s products are designed to stay where they are needed, helping reduce runoff, leaching and volatilization. This supports growers’ productivity and profitability while benefiting the health of our planet.

It’s progress that’s being shared across the world, Temme said, with perhaps the greatest impact yet to be felt.

“At Pivot Bio, we’ve had the chance to support large farmers in North and South America, as well as smallholder farmers in Africa, and that experience has only strengthened our belief in the potential of partnership and science to make a difference in areas with the fastest-growing populations and the most challenging climates,” he said.

“Farmers are the heroes feeding a growing planet, and we’re proud to stand with them, championing their work, their resilience, and their role in shaping a more sustainable and food-secure future for us all.”