Top 10 AgTech Startups
As the global population is projected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050, the demand for food is expected to surge by 60%. This urgent challenge necessitates innovative and sustainable food production methods to ensure that everyone is fed. The AgTech industry is stepping up to address this issue, with a wave of innovative startups emerging to tackle food sustainability through advancements in biotechnology, data analytics, energy efficiency, and more. Here are ten AgTech startups.
10. Connectera
Founded in 2015 and based in Amsterdam, Connectera aims to optimize dairy farm operations. By collaborating with farmers, the company identifies challenges and recommends solutions, all while integrating machine learning into their farm management software. Their goal is to empower farmers to enhance productivity while minimizing the environmental impact of traditional farming practices.
9. Carbon Robotics
Established in 2018 in Seattle, Carbon Robotics is revolutionizing agriculture with its autonomous laser weeder. This innovative technology addresses the pressing issue of weed control by using artificial intelligence and lasers, improving crop yield and safety for farmers while reducing reliance on harmful chemicals.
8. EarthSense
EarthSense specializes in ultra-compact, autonomous robots designed for crop monitoring. Their flagship robot, TerraSentia, is equipped with sensors that gather crucial data on plant health and stress responses. This technology enables farmers and scientists to make informed, data-driven decisions to optimize crop management.
7. Smallhold
As the first organic mushroom farm in New York City, Smallhold allows restaurants and grocery stores to grow their own mushrooms and greens on-site. Founded in 2018, this startup has gained attention from major publications and works to eliminate food waste by providing a direct source of fresh produce, cutting out intermediaries in the food supply chain.
6. Agrilution
Inspired by vertical farming, Agrilution envisions a future where households can harvest fresh greens and herbs at home. Founded in Munich in 2013, their Plant Cube technology allows for year-round indoor farming without pesticides, delivering nutrient-rich produce while conserving water and minimizing waste.
5. The Yield
An Australian AgTech company, The Yield focuses on transforming farming practices through secure digital technologies. By partnering with growers, the company addresses crop quality challenges and provides solutions that increase yield and reduce waste, while also mitigating risks associated with climate variability.
4. One Point One
One Point One is redefining vertical farming by creating automated systems for growing food and developing medicines. Their cutting-edge cultivation platform maximizes plant output while minimizing environmental impact through innovative automation and AI technologies.
3. Agrobot
Specializing in agricultural robotics, Agrobot is committed to helping farmers manage labor shortages. Their e-series robot, designed for strawberry harvesting, exemplifies their focus on creating efficient and cost-effective solutions for the industry.
2. Apeel
Founded in 2012, Apeel tackles food waste by developing a natural edible coating that slows spoilage in fruits and vegetables. Collaborating with a range of partners, from small farmers to major food brands, Apeel is dedicated to enhancing food sustainability and quality throughout the supply chain.
1. Postharvest
Postharvest has developed a micro-sensor system that monitors the health and ripeness of produce in storage facilities. This real-time data helps optimize shipment timing, significantly reducing food loss by up to 33%. Additionally, they offer a free online course platform aimed at educating industry workers and consumers about best practices for handling fresh produce.