From Utah farm roots to global agtech leadership

When you think of cutting-edge technology, farms might not be the first image that comes to mind. But for Clark T. Bell, CEO and founder of Nano-Yield, agriculture and innovation go hand in hand. What began as a family legacy in farming has grown into a mission to solve one of the world’s greatest challenges: how to feed billions of people with finite resources.

Clark’s story is one of grit, science, and vision. Raised in a family deeply tied to the soil, he initially resisted agriculture, only to find himself pulled back with a new perspective. Today, his company’s nanotechnology delivery system helps farmers grow more with less fertilizer—boosting yields, saving resources, and building a more sustainable food future. Along the way, Clark has navigated skepticism, forged powerful partnerships, and built a career rooted in both innovation and impact.

A Legacy Written in Soil

Clark likes to joke that “agriculture is a birth defect”—a calling that doesn’t make sense on paper but lives deep in his family’s DNA. Growing up, he watched his grandparents and parents devote themselves to farming, and while he swore as a teenager he’d never return, the pull of the land proved too strong. After his LDS mission, he found himself drawn back into the rhythms of the family farm, discovering the fulfillment that comes with growing something from scratch and seeing it benefit society.

His grandfather, T.H. Bell embodied that ethic of resilience. Raised in poverty in Lava Hot Springs, Idaho, he rose to become U.S. Secretary of Education under President Ronald Reagan. His father, Warren T. Bell, carried the same determination, eventually co-founding Nano-Yield alongside Clark. Together, they passed on a belief in entrepreneurship, grit, and building for impact. For Clark, the message was clear: the measure of a life is in the difference you make for others. 

Science Meets the Show-Me State

Nano-Yield’s breakthrough lies in its nanotechnology delivery system. At just four ounces per acre, its nanoparticles make fertilizers more effective at the cellular level, producing healthier crops and reducing waste. A single eyedropper of the product is enough to treat five acres—an almost unbelievable claim that required bold demonstration at MWCN’s own events. 

But skepticism was a constant companion. “Every time we go into a new area, we’re the snake oil salesmen with nanotechnology,” Clark recalled. Farmers, like those in Missouri’s “Show-Me State,” weren’t convinced until they saw results for themselves. By running side-by-side trials and shortening the adoption cycle, Nano-Yield turned doubters into believers. 

The impact is massive. In the U.S., more than 30% of fertilizer is wasted each year, washing away rather than feeding crops. Nano-Yield’s technology not only reduces this loss but also provides affordable access to micronutrients like zinc and copper in developing nations. For smallholder farmers in Africa and Asia, this can mean the difference between a poor harvest and prosperity.

Balancing Growth and Grounded Values

As Nano-Yield expanded, so did the demands on Clark’s time. Learning to say no became essential. “No is a complete sentence,” he explained, describing the boards he stepped off and media opportunities he declined to stay focused on building Nano-Yield.

But some commitments are non-negotiable. Clark coaches his son’s youth football team, attends his daughter’s drill competitions, and prioritizes family over even the most high-profile business invitations. “I’m not going to miss my daughter’s first real competition,” he said. That discipline, he believes, keeps him grounded and makes him a better leader. 

Utah’s Entrepreneurial Advantage

Utah nearly lost Nano-Yield to Montana, where incentives to relocate were tempting. But in the end, Clark couldn’t leave the unique advantages of Utah’s business environment. 

Two qualities stand out: the state’s deep-rooted culture of builders and its spirit of volunteerism. “Where much is given, much is required,” Clark explained. Utah entrepreneurs don’t just build businesses—they give back through nonprofits, mentorship, and community leadership. For Clark, this mix of work ethic and service is why Utah will always be home for his ventures. 

Partners & Mentors That Shape Growth

Every entrepreneur’s journey is shaped by mentors and partners, and Clark is quick to credit his father, Warren T. Bell, with his quiet strength, provided wisdom as both a co-founder and parent. Frazier Bullock, one of Utah’s most respected investors, became a guiding presence through challenges big and small. 

Partnerships also played a decisive role. The Larry H. Miller Company invested in Nano-Yield not just for financial returns but because they believed in its global impact. Offers of acquisition came, but Clark turned them down, determined to stay the course with partners who shared his vision. “We wanted partners who caught the long-term vision to impact the world,” he said. 

Giving Back

For Clark, giving back means investing in the next generation. He volunteers with the Jordan Education Foundation, supports teachers, and serves on his local youth football board. But his focus isn’t on creating elite athletes, it’s on teaching kids resilience, teamwork, and self-belief. 

“I’m not there to develop D1 athletes,” he explained. “I’m there to teach kids they can do hard things and have great friends through football.” That philosophy mirrors his business approach: success is measured in people’s growth as much as in revenue.

What’s On the Horizon for Nano-Yield?

Despite Nano-Yield’s momentum, challenges remain. The company is preparing to launch its technology with a major multinational fertilizer manufacturer, a milestone that could cement its global reach. But Clark admits it keeps him up at night.

Will partners apply the technology correctly? Will competitors attempt to reverse engineer it? In an industry worth billions, stakes are high. “If you’re not losing sleep, you’re probably complacent,” Clark said. Yet with instincts, a strong leadership team, and a deep bench of advisors, he’s confident Nano-Yield can scale responsibly and stay true to its mission. 

Lessons for Entrepreneurs

Clark’s advice for founders is as practical as it is inspiring. For those under five years or $5 million in revenue, he stresses two things above all: don’t fear mistakes and never give up. 

Early failures, he argues, are necessary for finding product-market fit. “Don’t let perfect get in the way of getting your product out.” And when challenges mount, persistence makes the difference between an idea and a lasting company. “If you have that commitment and discipline, you’ll never need to give up.”

Clark T. Bell’s story blends family legacy, scientific innovation, and values-driven leadership. From eyedropper demonstrations to global partnerships, from family farm lessons to the global race to feed billions, his journey is a reminder that bold ideas can change the world.

Want the full story behind Clark’s journey? In our complete MountainWest Capital Network Podcast interview, Clark shares the unfiltered details of building Nano-Yield, from overcoming skepticism to striking global partnerships and balancing business with family life.

[Listen to Clark’s complete story here →]

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About the MountainWest Capital Network Podcast: Your gateway to the Winners’ Circle, featuring stories and strategies from Utah’s fastest-growing companies. For 30 years, MountainWest Capital Network has celebrated entrepreneurial excellence through the Utah 100, recognizing the state’s most dynamic businesses and their founders.