Cashew is a new, independent agricultural market research company. Now, they’re on a mission to disrupt and democratize the $90 billion global market research industry with advanced AI technology. Cashew was created in 2023 by co-founders Addy Graves and Rose Wong. The company prides itself on developing innovative and actionable market research plans and surveys designed specifically for brands, with notable experience in the consumer packaged goods space, primarily in food and beverage.
Addy Graves is the CEO of Cashew. With more than 10 years of experience in market research, her skills add depth to the company’s wealth of knowledge. Recognizing a pressing need for quick and affordable market research solutions while working with various clients, Graves set out to create a platform that addresses these challenges.
Graves underscored what’s becoming an all too familiar catch-22 for brands. “You’re not asking them to solve everything for you,” he explained, “but you can do deep exploratory research using an LLM to get to answers—or you could hire an expensive consulting firm. This report highlights the significant opportunity in the market that Cashew hopes to meet by providing a mobile-friendly option.
Cashew powered by cutting-edge AI technologies allows you to make data-driven decisions faster and easier than ever before. By leveraging automation, the firm can provide fresh human data for each project while keeping costs manageable for small and medium-sized brands. Here’s how Cashew is different from all other AI marketing tools. It marries the power of automation with a personalized approach, providing a one-of-a-kind, human experience.
To further its development, Cashew has already raised C$1.5 million in pre-seed funding. The tech company is currently gearing up for its seed round, slated to roll out in early 2026. Cashew is raising a maximum of $5 million in this round. This new funding will allow them to scale operations and get a stronger foothold in the growing U.S. market.
Exceeded only by batteries, Graves underscores the industry’s growth potential. He notes that a good number of people buy research today, but millions more are locked out either by the cost they need to budget for the business or timing issues. This approach emphasizes the underserved and hidden market for affordable research services that Cashew is primed to dominate.
In 2025, Cashew was named one of 200 startups chosen to take part in TechCrunch’s Startup Battlefield competition. The company further distinguished itself by winning the Enterprise Stage pitch competition at TechCrunch Disrupt, showcasing its innovative approach to market research amidst stiff competition.
Cashew continues to strive to be better and do better. These attributes combine to make us deeply invested in producing the best possible research-informed solutions efficiently and economically. The combination of AI technology with human expertise positions Cashew uniquely within the market, allowing it to cater to a diverse range of clients seeking reliable market insights.