Technology in the last few decades has transformed the agriculture industry. These technologies seek to make farming practices more efficient, sustainable and profitable. Various unpredictable weather patterns, droughts, climate change and loss of farmland have impacted food production negatively. With the population on the rise, expected to reach 9.8 billion by 2050, and the need for a significant increase in food production, farming practices must be revolutionized. Agriculture experts partner with innovators working to bring such technologies to the market. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) states the importance of agriculture technology and its impact on productivity and sustainability. From streamlining operations, robots, sensors, precision agriculture and mor,e let’s explore how agriculture start-ups are revolutionizing traditional farming practices.
Farm Management Software
AgFunder reports that Farm Management Software saw a 35% year-over-year increase with $1.7B raised in 2022, which makes it the biggest category increase. Farm Management Software includes a variety of things including mobile apps, websites and programs that allow farmers to collect, store and use meaningful data. This data helps them make informed decisions about crop prediction, health management and more. One start-up out of Israel called SupPlant utilizes AI systems to gather and analyze data from crops using sensors. This information is used to provide precise irrigation based on many variables such as weather conditions and plant stress. Agribusinesses will continue to work with companies in the farm management software category to bring these groundbreaking technologies to farms around the world.
Farm Robotics and Equipment
Robotic equipment and machinery are making farming practices significantly more efficient. This equipment can accomplish a range of tasks including monitoring pests, planting, weeding, feed, milk and monitoring animals. Verdant Robotics based in the U.S. made a $47m deal according to AgFunder. This transformative on-farm technology uses “computer vision and spray-based technology to automate everyday growing tasks such as weeding, nutrient and pesticide application.” Other agriculture start-ups are developing groundbreaking technologies in the area of farm robotics in order to improve farm operations globally. Agriculture experts expect farm robotics to bridge the gap in labor and ultimately make farms more efficient.
Novel Farming Systems
Novel farming system investments increased by 2% in 2022 and reached $2.85 billion. These systems include vertical farms and other indoor farms focusing on providing local produce with less inputs. Plenty, a vertical farm company growing pesticide free greens, received a $400 million investment. Agriculture start-ups in this sector are very different from traditional farms, but they are on the rise and are revolutionizing the industry.
Final Thoughts
Agriculture technology is continually evolving and changing. Encouraging farmers, ranchers and producers to adopt such technologies, as well as providing funding and education, is crucial. Start-ups must be able to prove their product’s ability to improve yield and profitability for the farmer. Feeding a growing population will take every part of the industry working together to improve and optimize farming practices. Experts predict that 2023 will be a great year for investing in agri-tech start-ups. Agriculture experts are committed to seeing new technologies come to market from agriculture start-ups seeking to improve farming practices Manildra grain.
