Good morning growers,

This week highlights product launches, technology integrations, and regulatory milestones across AgTech, plant science, and controlled-environment agriculture. Companies are advancing automation, precision tools, biological inputs, and open-source data systems, while new partnerships and approvals continue to shape capabilities across field production, crop protection, and indoor growing systems.

A warm welcome to our new iGrow Network members. We’re glad to have you on board and look forward to keeping you updated on the latest innovations, opportunities, and trends in AgTech. Not a member yet? Register now to join the network!

Estimated Reading Time: 8 - 10 minutes

OUR LATEST AGTECH INTELLIGENCE DASHBOARD SNAPSHOT

Where Is the Ag Carbon Market Advancing — and What Innovations Dominate?

Across the agricultural carbon market, momentum is strongest in measurement, verification (MRV), and large-scale credit delivery. Multiple organisations secured major recognitions under leading standards such as Verra VM0042, including ChrysaLabs’ soil carbon validation and Agreena’s verification of 2.3 million credits across 1.6 million hectares. Partnerships such as Groundwork BioAg with Anew Climate and UNDO with Verde AgriTech highlight the growing role of nature-based carbon removals—from mycorrhizal sequestration to enhanced rock weathering—supported by increasingly rigorous MRV frameworks. Tools like HowGood’s Global Carbon Database and MyEasyFarm’s deployment across 280 French farms show how carbon accounting is becoming embedded in supply-chain operations. This is also reflected in the innovation breakdown in the chart below, where MRV and credit-generation systems represent the majority of new activity, while carbon platforms form a growing but smaller share.

Regionally, Europe leads in standards development, verification progress, and cooperative-driven implementation, while North America drives scale, financing, and long-term offtake agreements—including multi-million-ton commitments from Microsoft. Emerging markets in Latin America, Africa, and Asia show expanding methodological localisation and early-stage deployment, particularly for enhanced rock weathering (ERW) and smallholder-focused carbon programs. The Middle East and Oceania are increasingly active through institutional investment in carbon-positive agriculture. Collectively, these developments indicate a sector maturing on multiple fronts—more robust MRV, larger financial commitments, and a broader global footprint.

Book a discovery call to explore our solutions directly: Schedule here.

🎧 Prefer listening over reading?

Catch the full recap on this week’s AgTech Digest Podcast—available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite platform.

AGTECH & AGRIBUSINESS
Funding, Partnerships, and Product Updates in AgTech & AgriBusiness

XAG Launches R Series Electric Agricultural Rovers for Specialty Crops – XAG has introduced the R Series Agricultural Rover, including the R100 and R200 models, designed for automated operations in orchards, vineyards, and greenhouses. The fully electric units feature precision spraying, intelligent navigation, and terrain adaptability, with tank capacities of 120 liters and 240 liters, respectively, supported by JetSprayer technology and real-time mapping systems.

OpenAgri Partners with AgStack to Launch Pancake for Open-Source Agricultural Data – The OpenAgri Project has partnered with the AgStack Foundation to integrate its software into AgStack’s digital infrastructure, introducing Pancake, an open-source core for agricultural data and AI services. The initiative aims to improve interoperability, reduce vendor lock-in, and support open, vendor-neutral technology development within the global agriculture ecosystem.

CHC Navigation and CNH Industrial Partner on Precision Guidance for FP FleetPro Kits – CHC Navigation has partnered with CNH Industrial to integrate its high-precision guidance systems into CNH’s FP FleetPro aftermarket kits, launched at Agritechnica 2025. The kits provide universal compatibility, touchscreen displays, and flexible steering options, enabling operators to adopt precision agriculture tools without replacing existing machinery.

Bushel Plus and John Deere Partner to Expand SmartPan™ System Adoption – Bushel Plus has partnered with John Deere to distribute the SmartPan™ System through Deere’s dealer network in the U.S. and Canada. The integration provides real-time grain loss data to support combine calibration and harvest efficiency, with joint training programs scheduled to begin in 2026.

Ancient Organics Receives U.S. Patent for Glyphosate-Degrading Microbial Technology – Ancient Organics has secured a U.S. patent for a microbial technology that degrades glyphosate and AMPA in soils, with field trials showing residue reductions of 50% to 96% and yield increases of 25% to 48%. Marketed as PaleoPower, the product is available through North American distributors for use in improving soil conditions and addressing herbicide persistence.

INTERVIEW
Advancing AI-Driven Discovery in Crop Protection

Enko is applying its ENKOMPASS™ platform to accelerate molecule discovery for herbicides, fungicides, and insecticides by integrating molecular data, machine learning, and field biology. CEO Tony Klemm, who joined the company in 2025 after a long career in agriculture, highlights the need for new solutions as resistance increases and older products face regulatory phase-outs.

The company is working with multiple global partners and developing a broad portfolio aimed at addressing challenges across major crops and regions. “Our approach is about using data to make discovery more efficient while aligning with regulatory and field requirements,” Klemm said.

Klemm expects continued demand for new modes of action and sees Enko contributing to the sector’s shift toward data-enabled discovery processes that support long-term crop management needs.

Discover more here.

PLANT SCIENCE
New Products, Approval and Initiatives for Plant Science

Bayer Crop Science Canada Launches EverGol Rise Seed Treatment for 2026 – Bayer Crop Science Canada has introduced EverGol Rise, a pulse seed treatment combining four active ingredients for control of seed- and soil-borne diseases such as ascochyta, Fusarium spp., and rhizoctonia. The single-formulation product, featuring a visual colourant for coverage confirmation, will be available for the 2026 season following positive performance in more than 90 pre-commercial trials.

Arevo Introduces Arginex Bio-Based Nutrition System to Reduce Fertilizer Dependency – Swedish firm Arevo has launched Arginex, a bio-based crop nutrition product aimed at reducing reliance on mineral fertilizers linked to soil degradation. Trial results in corn, potatoes, and soy indicate improved yields with lower fertilizer use, with the arginine–phosphate formulation designed to support root development, soil health, and reduced nitrogen loss.

SynTech Research Expands Global Banana Protection Trials Across Multiple Regions – SynTech Research is strengthening crop protection trials for bananas in Latin America, Africa, and Asia under GLP standards in response to rising disease and climate pressures. Research efforts target pests such as Black Sigatoka, thrips, and Moko disease, using chemical and biological strategies supported by sites in Ecuador, the Canary Islands, and the Philippines, along with drone spraying and digital monitoring tools.

Biotalys Receives EPA Approval for EVOCA™ Protein-Based Biofungicide – Biotalys has secured EPA approval for EVOCA™, a protein-based biofungicide targeting botrytis and powdery mildew in high-value crops. The product, based on the AGROBODY™ platform, offers a novel mode of action for pre- and post-harvest use and is exempt from tolerance requirements, with state-level registrations in California and Florida and European regulatory processes underway.

CEA
New Product Launches in CEA

CANNA Launches CANNA AGRI Solutions for CEA Facilities – CANNA has introduced CANNA AGRI Solutions to support large-scale CEA operations, consolidating nutrients, substrates, and additives into a single program. New soluble products, CANNA Universal Dry and CANNA Coco Dry, debut at MJBizCon 2025 with availability expected in early 2026, emphasizing clean inputs and traceability.

Agroz and UBTECH Launch Agroz Robotics for CEA Automation – Agroz has partnered with UBTECH Robotics to deploy the Walker S humanoid robot for automated seeding, monitoring, and harvesting within its CEA platform. The initiative aims to improve consistency, reduce labor needs, and support regional expansion across Southeast Asia.

Cree LED and SANlight Release STIXX-Series Horticultural Lighting – Cree LED and SANlight GmbH have launched the STIXX-Series luminaires using J Series® LEDs, offering up to 3.1 μmol/J efficiency, IP68 durability, and long operational lifespan. The modular fixtures are designed for horticultural environments with optimized spectra and advanced optics.

Sollum Technologies Introduces Dynamic LED Lighting System for Greenhouses – Sollum Technologies has released a dynamic LED system that adjusts spectrum and intensity in real time, delivering energy savings and reported yield improvements. Integrated through the SUNaaS® platform, it supports multiple crops and can reduce energy use by up to 40% versus HPS.

SOLASTA Bio Expands Patent Portfolio for Peptide Bioinsecticides – SOLASTA® Bio now holds 14 U.S. and European patents for its peptide-based bioinsecticides, supported by over 50 trials showing efficacy above 85% with no impact on beneficial insects. New trials in rice, leafy greens, and soft fruits indicate broader use potential as the company advances toward commercial deployment following its $14 million Series A round.

OTHER NEWS
Other Updates: New Funding Round, New Initiative & More!

ReSoil has raised €4 million from institutional and private investors, including Banque des Territoires, InvESS Île-de-France Amorçage, and Generali Investissement à Impact.The company plans to expand its digital tools and support more farmers in transitioning toward regenerative and low-carbon agriculture.

ADB Approves USD 140.89 Million Loan for Climate-Smart Agriculture in Sichuan – The Asian Development Bank has approved a USD 140.89 million loan to support low-carbon, climate-smart agriculture in Sichuan Province, China.

Just Climate has raised $375 million to expand its Natural Climate Solutions strategy, targeting high-impact opportunities in land use, water, and waste. The strategy is backed by major institutional investors, including pension funds, asset managers, and global financial institutions. The fund has invested in AgroStar, an Indian agritech platform serving more than 10 million smallholder farmers.

Rumin8 has acquired ROAM Agricultural, a Loam Bio spin-out developing methane-reducing solutions for cattle. The acquisition gives Rumin8 access to additional delivery formats for tribromomethane (TBM), expanding its product portfolio. ROAM’s technologies include synthesized TBM production and sustained-release delivery formats.

Athian completed a $4 million Series A round backed by major food and agriculture investors. The company has facilitated $18 million in payments to farmers since 2024 for emissions-reducing practices. New and existing investors span the food value chain, including dairy, livestock, ingredients, and foodservice.

Clean Energy has completed its renewable natural gas (RNG) facility at South Fork Dairy in Dimmitt, Texas. The site, now one of the largest RNG plants in the U.S., can produce ~2.6 million gallons of RNG per year. The project rocesses 300,000 gallons of manure daily using four anaerobic digesters.

Upcoming AgTech Events

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Agri Expo International Exhibition & Conference for Agriculture Supplies

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Good morning growers,

This week highlights activity across AgTech, plant sciences, and controlled environment agriculture, with companies announcing new funding, product launches, rebrands, and strategic expansions. Updates span AI-enabled crop management, biological inputs, autonomous machinery, and indoor farming investments, reflecting ongoing momentum across the agricultural value chain.

A warm welcome to our new iGrow Network members. We’re glad to have you on board and look forward to keeping you updated on the latest innovations, opportunities, and trends in AgTech. Not a member yet? Register now to join the network!

A quick reminder — next week we’re hosting our State of the Industry Live - Monthly briefing, for all Insights & Pro members, covering October 2025 market highlights, YTD trends, and a year-over-year look at activity across AgTech, CEA, plant science, and robotics. We’ll share fast, facts-only insights drawn from our market database. Not a member yet? Join Insights & Pro with a 30-day free trial to attend.

Estimated Reading Time: 8 - 10 minutes

OUR LATEST AGTECH INTELLIGENCE DASHBOARD SNAPSHOT

2025 Sparks a Surge in Biologicals, New Modes of Action, and AI-Driven Crop Protection

The latest activity in crop protection points to a sector rapidly pivoting toward biologicals, nutrient efficiency, and next-gen modes of action, backed by serious capital and regulatory momentum. New biological and nature-based solutions are advancing across pests, diseases, and nutrients: Cascadia Seaweed’s Kelpivex, Pivot Bio’s dry PROVEN G3 and CERT-N, Indigo’s Nemora FP, FireHawk bioherbicide, ADAMA’s novel fungicide Gilboa and molluscicide Feralla, plus a wave of microbial and biocontrol products from companies like Amoéba, Biotalys, FA Bio, Tidal Grow, AgroSpheres, and Attune. These are reinforced by key approvals and certifications (EPA, EU, CFIA, state-level), and by strategic partnerships (Amoéba–Syngenta, FA Bio–Bayer, Biotalys–AgroFresh, Groundwork BioAg–Beck’s and ADAMA, ICL–BioPrime, BASF/Corteva/M.S. in Brazil) that signal biologicals are moving from niche to mainstream within integrated crop protection programs.

At the same time, capital, M&A and digital tools are reshaping the competitive landscape. Significant funding rounds for Biocentis, Ascribe Bio, Vive, BioConsortia, PATS, BiocSol, IBI Ag and others are flowing into platforms for next-generation insect control, microbials, natural chemistries, and data-driven R&D. Consolidation and strategic expansion—Gowan integrating Ceradis, Sumitomo taking full control of Philagro and Kenogard, Ambienta acquiring Agronova, Syngenta acquiring Intrinsyx Bio, FBN spinning off Global Crop Solutions—underscore a race to build broader, more sustainable portfolios. Overlaying this is a clear digital and AI layer: Micropep’s Krisalix AI platform, Agmatix/BASF’s SCN prediction tools, FarmQA’s nutrient-planning software, and AI-powered fertilizer and decision systems all point to crop protection evolving into a data-rich, biologically oriented, highly integrated ecosystem, where efficacy, resistance management, sustainability, and ROI are tightly linked.

Book a discovery call to explore our solutions directly: Schedule here.

🎧 Prefer listening over reading?

Catch the full recap on this week’s AgTech Digest Podcast—available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite platform.

AGTECH
Funding, Partnerships, and Product Updates in AgTech

BASF Digital Farming Launches xarvio FIELD MANAGER for Grapes – BASF Digital Farming has launched xarvio FIELD MANAGER For Grapes for growers in France, Spain, and Türkiye starting in 2025/26. The platform covers over 100 grape varieties and provides data-driven recommendations for pest, disease, fertilization, and irrigation management.

AgroStar Raises $30 Million to Expand Climate-Smart Agriculture in India – AgroStar has secured $30 million from Just Climate and existing investors to scale its AI-driven agritech platform. The company serves more than 10 million farmers, reporting yield gains and reduced cultivation costs for a majority of users.

XAG Introduces P150 Max Autonomous Drone for Large-Scale Farming – XAG has launched the P150 Max drone with an 80-kg payload and modular systems for spraying, spreading, mapping, and logistics. Equipped with the SuperX 5 control system, the drone targets improved efficiency and labor-saving in large-scale agricultural operations.

New Holland Updates Braud 9.80N Harvester and TE6 Straddle Tractors – New Holland has announced updates for its 2026 Braud 9.80N harvester, including a redesigned axle, upgraded cab, and new precision tools. Enhancements to TE6 Straddle Tractors include automated headland sequences for improved field operation efficiency.

Saudi Arabia Advances AgTech Under Vision 2030 – Saudi Arabia is accelerating AgTech investment through government food security programs, USD 114M in Dutch technology partnerships, and new indoor farming projects. Despite progress, challenges remain in energy costs, regulation, and skilled labor, while the country continues to lead the GCC’s USD 0.39B indoor farming market.

PLANT SCIENCE
New Acquisition, Approval, and Rebrand for Plant Science

PI Industries Rebrands Plant Health Care Plc as PI AgSciences – PI Industries has rebranded Plant Health Care Plc as PI AgSciences following its August 2024 acquisition, consolidating its agricultural operations with a focus on biologicals and sustainable crop solutions across more than 40 countries. The new division is headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, and integrates significant R&D capabilities to support continued investment in biological technologies and global market expansion.

Roquette Renames Plant Care Division as Agriscience After IFF Pharma Solutions Acquisition – Roquette has rebranded its plant care division as Agriscience, expanding its portfolio of plant-based and bio-based inputs for fertilizer, biostimulation, biocontrol, and seed treatment. The range includes branded products such as METHOCEL™ and Scogin®, supported by a new Customer Technical Services Application Lab in Geneva, Illinois.

Cascadia Seaweed Secures CAD$4 Million and Gains Approval for Kelpivex in Canada – Cascadia Seaweed has raised CAD$4 million in Series A funding and received CFIA approval for its liquid kelp extract, Kelpivex, now available to Canadian farmers. Early trials show improved nutrient-use efficiency and crop performance, aligning with Canada’s 2025 climate and fertilizer emission goals and building on the company’s recent work with U.S. growers.

CEA
New Expansion and Launch in CEA

Centuria Capital Expands Agriculture Real Estate Platform to $820 Million – Centuria Capital Group has acquired a 43-hectare hydroponic glasshouse in Two Wells, South Australia, for $168 million through the Centuria Agriculture Fund, expanding its platform to $820 million. The asset, operated by Perfection Fresh, adds over 160 hectares of protected cropping and is secured under a 17.4-year triple net lease, bringing the fund’s portfolio to six fully occupied properties valued at $629 million.

HIC Venture Studio Launches as First Horticulture-Focused Venture Studio – The HIC Venture Studio has launched as the world’s first venture studio dedicated to horticulture, focusing on six transition themes including energy, resilient cultivation, circular systems, automation, and autonomous growing. Supported by Catalyze for grant-writing and strategic consulting, the studio aims to accelerate startup development within an ecosystem of academic and research partners in greenhouse horticulture.

OTHER NEWS
Other Updates: New Funding Round, New Initiative & More!

MyEasyFarm has formed a strategic partnership with the La Tricherie agricultural cooperative to manage greenhouse gas emissions across nearly 280 farms in the Vienne region. La Tricherie, recognized for its CSR leadership (ISO 26000), selected MyEasyFarm’s MyEasyCarbon technology to support rigorous Scope 3 reporting aligned with SBTi Net-Zero standards.T

Noahs secured €1.9 million in new funding at a €6.5 million pre-money valuation. The round was led by PSV Tech, with participation from industry angels including Kraen Nielsen, Bob Stein, and existing shareholders. Noahs transforms service stations, supermarkets, and travel hubs into digital, multi-brand food destinations.

Ruminant Biotech closed a $9.5M USD Series A round, co-led by Rosrain Investments and Cultivate Ventures, with participation from Marex and follow-on funding from AgriZeroNZ. The company is developing a long-duration methane mitigation solution tailored to pasture-based cattle systems. Initial regulatory approval is expected in New Zealand in early 2026, with Australia and New Zealand targeted for first commercial launch.

The African Development Fund approved a $14.64 million grant to support Project 2 of the Programme to Strengthen Resilience to Food and Nutrition Insecurity in the Sahel (P2-P2RS). Funding is provided through the Climate Action Window, the climate-focused mechanism of the African Development Bank Group. The project will scale climate-smart villages, improve climate information systems, and expand access to resilient, high-yielding seed varieties.

Indigo Ag, Kellanova, and Walmart have formed a new partnership to support regenerative rice farming across Arkansas. The initiative builds on a four-year collaboration between Walmart and Indigo Ag, which has delivered major environmental and financial benefits to farmers. Participating growers receive financial premiums for rice produced using regenerative methods.

Upcoming AgTech Events

World Agri-Tech Innovation Summit Dubai | December 8 - 9, 2025

Agri Expo International Exhibition & Conference for Agriculture Supplies

Indoor Ag-Con | February 11-12, 2026 | Las Vegas, USA

Special Thanks to Our Directory Members

Established Plan:
SpectraGrow, LettUs Grow, Harvest Returns, Women in CEA, Harnois Greenhouses, Verde Compacto

Scale-Up Plan:
Sollum Technologies, Babylon Micro-Farms, Ounce of Hope Aquaponics, Grow-Tec, Microclimates, Growtainer

Not listed yet? Add your company to the directory and start getting noticed!

Good morning growers,

This week showcases strong activity across AgTech, biologicals, automation, and controlled environment agriculture. Companies are announcing new funding rounds, product launches, platform integrations, and strategic partnerships — from novel bio-fungicides and biostimulants to autonomous vehicles, irrigation–agronomy integrations, and next-generation nitrogen solutions.

We’re also seeing major developments in CEA scholarships, digital connectivity infrastructure, regenerative crop protection, and expanded financing for agribusiness and women-led MSMEs. With continued investment and technology rollouts across equipment, inputs, and data intelligence, the sector remains highly dynamic across the entire value chain.

And, a warm welcome to our new iGrow Network members. We’re glad to have you on board and look forward to keeping you updated on the latest innovations, opportunities, and trends in AgTech. Not a member yet? Register now to join the network!

A quick reminder — next week, Wednesday, Nov 26, 05:45 PM–06:45 PM CET / 11:45 AM–12:45 PM EST, we’re hosting a hands-on session on GTM and marketing in AgTech. We’ll share what really works, how to craft messages that resonate, and practical lessons from the field. Come as you are, bring your questions, and let’s learn together!

Estimated Reading Time: 8 - 10 minutes

OUR LATEST AGTECH INTELLIGENCE DASHBOARD SNAPSHOT

Agritechnica Sparks a Surge in AI-Driven and Autonomous Farm Technologies

Recent agtech launches show accelerating momentum in automation, AI-powered precision, and connected field operations, with Agritechnica 2025 acting as a major showcase for next-generation innovations. Case IH unveiled upgraded tractors, advanced sprayer platforms, and a breakthrough AI-driven parts search tool that allows operators to identify components instantly via photo recognition. New Holland added further weight to this trend with premium specialty tractors, its autonomous R4 robot series, upgraded CX PLMi combines with enhanced digital integration, and its own AI visual parts-search feature on myCNHstore. FieldBee’s Vision auto-steering system and CNH’s FLEETPRO aftermarket line also debuted at the show, reinforcing Agritechnica’s role as a launchpad for increasingly intelligent, interconnected equipment ecosystems.

Across the broader market, innovation continues to accelerate in biological inputs, drones, and digital platforms. Pivot Bio, Corteva, and Kemin are delivering new microbial and nutrient-efficiency solutions, while DJI and Hylio expand their high-capacity drone fleets for spraying and field monitoring. Connectivity and data integration remain central themes, highlighted by eX² Technology’s new wireless network covering 160,000 acres of farmland and Syngenta’s open Cropwise platform. These combined advances—show-floor breakthroughs plus global product launches—reflect the industry’s push toward smarter, automated, and seamlessly connected farming. They’re exactly the trends our dashboard tracks in real time to keep users ahead of what’s next in agtech.

Book a discovery call to explore our solutions directly: Schedule here.

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🎧 Prefer listening over reading?

Catch the full recap on this week’s AgTech Digest Podcast—available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite platform.

AGTECH
Funding, Partnerships, and Product Updates in AgTech

Oyster Bay Venture Capital Closes €100M+ Fund II for Food System Innovation – Oyster Bay VC has closed its second fund above €100 million to back early-stage solutions across the food value chain. The fund builds on its top-decile first fund, with investments including goodBytz, Nukoko, Arda Biomaterials, and seedalive GmbH.

Atrium Agri and VEK Adviesgroep End Partnership for Independent Operation – Atrium Agri has concluded its partnership with VEK Adviesgroep, returning full ownership to its founders. The separation supports VEK’s independent advisory focus in greenhouse horticulture while allowing continued collaboration on joint client projects.

Voltrac Raises €7M to Scale Autonomous Thor UGV – Voltrac secured €7 million in seed funding led by Extantia to scale production of its autonomous Thor UGV to 100 units per year by 2026. The vehicle features 70% fewer components and enables one operator to manage multiple units, with additional testing planned in logistics applications.

Tractor Junction Secures $22.6M Series A to Expand Rural Auto-Fintech Platform – Tractor Junction raised $22.6 million, led by Astanor, to grow its rural vehicle marketplace and finance services. The platform has seen 13× revenue growth and its fintech arm has issued over $180 million in loans to rural customers.

Ceres AI Raises $13M to Advance Agricultural Intelligence Layer – Ceres AI closed a $13 million round led by Remus Capital to expand its data platform covering 40 crops and 17 billion measurements. The funding supports development of an intelligence layer for agribusiness, with new board participation from Remus and AI agent Arista.

PLANT SCIENCE
New Biologicals, Partnerships, and Product Launches for Plant Science

Pivot Bio Launches Dry Planter Box Nitrogen Products for 2026 Season – Pivot Bio introduced PROVEN® G3 Dry for corn and CERT-N™ Dry for cotton, delivering nitrogen-fixing microbes at planting. Early data shows consistent yield gains and up to 20% nitrogen replacement, supported by a new performance data hub, PROVENit.

Amoéba and Syngenta Partner on Amoeba-Derived Bio-Fungicide for Cereals – Amoéba and Syngenta are co-developing a bio-fungicide based on Willaertia magna lysate to target wheat diseases in the EU and UK. The active substance received EU approval in 2025, with full product authorizations and a distribution agreement expected by 2026.

Valent BioSciences and Seipasa Introduce Sweetsei™ Biostimulant in the U.S. – Valent BioSciences has partnered with Seipasa to bring the Sweetsei™ biostimulant to U.S. specialty crop growers. The collaboration supports Valent’s expanding biologicals portfolio and aligns with rising demand for sustainable, science-driven crop inputs.

Biocentis Raises $19M to Advance Biological Insect-Control Platform – Biocentis secured $19 million in seed funding and a Wellcome grant to scale its genome-engineered, AI-enabled pest control technology. The investment will support field trials for mosquito and fruit fly solutions across the U.S., Brazil, and additional markets.

FA Bio and Bayer Launch PoC Program for Fungal Bioinsecticides in Oilseed Rape – FA Bio and Bayer, co-sponsored by EIT Food, have initiated a proof-of-concept program to develop fungal bioinsecticides targeting Cabbage Stem Flea Beetle. The effort will validate soil-native fungal candidates and application methods for regenerative crop protection.

CEA
New Funding and Program in CEA

Indoor Ag-Con and Sollum Relaunch 2026 Scholarship for CEA Students – Indoor Ag-Con and Sollum Technologies have reopened the Sollum Student Scholarship for 2026, offering a fully funded trip to the Las Vegas conference for doctoral students in controlled environment agriculture. The program covers travel, lodging, per diem, and conference access, with applications open in the U.S. and Canada until December 19, 2025.

UbiQD Secures $6M Debt Financing to Expand Manufacturing Capacity – UbiQD has obtained $6 million in debt financing from Silicon Valley Bank to scale its manufacturing and infrastructure for agricultural and solar applications. The agreement follows its $20 million Series B round and includes the appointment of Tony Beams as CFO to support continued growth and commercialization.

OTHER NEWS
Other Updates: New Funding Round, New Initiative & More!

The African Development Bank approved $310 million for FirstRand Bank to increase financing for MSMEs, with over one-third earmarked for women-led and agricultural enterprises. The package includes MSME, gender-focused, and concessional credit lines, along with technical assistance to improve financial inclusion and enterprise bankability.

Flocean has expanded its Series A round to $22.5 million, adding Xylem Inc. as a new strategic investor. Funding will support the launch of Flocean One, the first commercial subsea desalination plant, set to begin operating in 2026. The company signed an agreement with Alver Municipality to explore integrating Flocean’s desalinated water into local industrial and municipal systems.

Verde AgriTech has signed an exclusive agreement with UNDO Carbon to develop and commercialize carbon removal credits through Enhanced Rock Weathering (ERW) in Brazil. The partnership leverages Verde’s glauconitic siltstone and agricultural operations with UNDO’s ERW measurement and verification expertise. The collaboration could enable the removal of hundreds of thousands of tonnes of CO₂.

Rhizocore raised £4.5M to expand production of its fungal-based forestry technology. The round was led by The First Thirty with participation from Scottish Enterprise and existing customer The Grosvenor Estate. The company’s RhizoPellets™ have delivered significant improvements in tree growth and survival rates.

ChrysaLabs has been officially validated by Bureau Veritas North America as compliant with Verra’s VM0042 v2.1 methodology. The validation confirms that ChrysaLabs’ proximal sensing approach meets international standards for soil organic carbon (SOC) measurement. This milestone enables lower-cost, scalable, Verra-aligned soil carbon data for carbon project developers.

Upcoming AgTech Events

World Agri-Tech Innovation Summit Dubai | December 8 - 9, 2025

Agri Expo International Exhibition & Conference for Agriculture Supplies

Indoor Ag-Con | February 11-12, 2026 | Las Vegas, USA

Special Thanks to Our Directory Members

Established Plan:
SpectraGrow, LettUs Grow, Harvest Returns, Women in CEA, Harnois Greenhouses, Verde Compacto

Scale-Up Plan:
Sollum Technologies, Babylon Micro-Farms, Ounce of Hope Aquaponics, Grow-Tec, Microclimates, Growtainer

Not listed yet? Add your company to the directory and start getting noticed!

Good morning growers,

This week brings a wide range of developments across AgTech, plant science, CEA, and climate-driven innovation. Companies such as Syngenta, DJI Agriculture, Origin Agritech, IBI Ag, Bindwell, and GoodLeaf Farms are advancing new platforms, patented technologies, funding rounds, and international expansions — signaling strong momentum as digital tools, automation systems, and biological solutions continue to mature.

We’re also highlighting major greenhouse automation milestones, gene-editing partnerships, AI-powered pesticide discovery breakthroughs, and new investments in hydroponics and electrification systems. From fresh funding rounds to large-scale deployments and global technology showcases ahead of Agritechnica 2025, the sector remains dynamic across its full value chain.

And, a warm welcome to our new iGrow Network members. We’re glad to have you on board and look forward to keeping you updated on the latest innovations, opportunities, and trends in AgTech. Not a member yet? Register now to join the network!

Estimated Reading Time: 8 - 10 minutes

OUR LATEST AGTECH INTELLIGENCE DASHBOARD SNAPSHOT

Is the CEA Industry Truly Rebounding in 2025—or Is the Data Telling a Different Story?

A review of our 2025 dataset shows a selective, uneven recovery across the CEA ecosystem. Funding momentum has indeed returned, but it is heavily concentrated in greenhouse infrastructure and enabling technologies such as automation, AI-driven crop optimisation, robotics, substrates, and advanced lighting. Companies including SAIA Agrobotics, Source.ag, Voltiris, AISPRID, and 4AG Robotics raised new rounds, yet in many cases these raises were smaller than their previous financings, signalling that investor appetite is improving but remains conservative. Large project investments (e.g., Harvest Singularity’s US$66M greenhouse) exist, but they are exceptions rather than indicators of broad market acceleration.

Despite renewed activity, the database continues to show frequent bankruptcies and restructurings across vertical farming and CEA-linked operators — including exits in North America, Europe, and Asia. Several deals recorded as M&A were distressed transactions involving companies selling assets at heavy discounts. The pattern suggests that while certain operators with strong economics are moving forward, weaker models are still being filtered out of the market. This points to a reallocation of capital, not a uniform rebound.

Investor participation reinforces this selectivity. Farm Credit Canada stands out as one of the most active investors of the year (three deals), followed by repeat participation from Cibus Capital. A wide range of single-ticket investors — including Power Sustainable Lios, McCain Foods, S2G Investments, Astanor Ventures, Raiven Capital, AgFunder, Grosvenor Food & AgTech, Ingka Investments, and several regional VCs — contributed to activity, but the distribution of deals suggests targeted bets rather than broad enthusiasm.

A notable 2025 trend is the sharp rise in product integrations and strategic partnerships across the industry. The dataset shows a high frequency of Product Integration, MoU, Strategic Partnership, Joint Venture, Project, Education, Manufacturing Partnership, and Distribution Agreement announcements. These collaborations often pair technology providers with growers, integrate digital tools with climate or irrigation systems, or formalise cross-border cooperation. This signals a shift toward interoperability, ecosystem building, and shared risk, as companies strengthen value propositions not by expanding alone but by embedding themselves into broader systems used by growers and supply-chain partners.

Taken together, 2025 reflects a disciplined rebuilding phase: capital is flowing again, partnership activity is surging, and technology integration is accelerating — yet funding sizes remain smaller, and operator failures persist. The “comeback” is real, but it is selective, efficiency-driven, and heavily shaped by collaboration rather than standalone growth.

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AGTECH
New Initiative, Products and Partnership for AgTech

Syngenta Launches Cropwise Open Platform to Expand Digital Agriculture Access – Syngenta has launched the Cropwise Open Platform, providing global third-party developers access to its AI-powered digital ecosystem across more than 70 million hectares in over 30 countries.

Doktar Partners with Trapview to Enhance Automated Pest Monitoring – Netherlands-based Doktar has partnered with Trapview to integrate automated pest monitoring and forecasting into its digital platform. The collaboration offers real-time pest insights to improve farm management efficiency and supports climate-smart agriculture by reducing pesticide use and promoting biodiversity.

DJI Agriculture Introduces Three New Drones Ahead of Agritechnica 2025 – DJI Agriculture has launched the Agras T100, T70P, and T25P drones in Europe, Central Asia, and Africa amid a 90% global rise in agricultural drone use since 2020. The models target large, medium, and small-scale farms, and will be showcased at Agritechnica 2025 in Hannover alongside expanded operator training programs.

CLAAS Launches JAGUAR 1000 Series Forage Harvester with Record Output – CLAAS introduced the JAGUAR 1000 series forage harvester featuring AI-driven crop quality analysis and improved efficiency. The flagship JAGUAR 1200 model set a Guinness World Record by harvesting 4,515 tons of wheatlage in 12 hours while reducing fuel use by up to 12% compared to previous models.

PLANT SCIENCE
New Initiatives & Funding for Plant Science

Origin Agritech Signs Gene Editing License Agreement with Shunfeng Biotechnology – Origin Agritech Ltd. has entered a patent license agreement with Shandong Shunfeng Biotechnology Co., Ltd. for the Cas-SF01 gene editing platform to advance corn breeding and hybrid development. The collaboration builds on prior work with China Agricultural University and targets regulatory genes affecting corn leaf angle to improve yield potential and planting density.

IBI Ag Raises $10 Million Series A Led by Corteva Catalyst – IBI Ag has closed a $10 million Series A round led by Corteva Inc. through its Corteva Catalyst platform, with participation from The Trendlines Group, Bandera Capital, and First Imagine Ventures. The funding supports development and commercialization of antibody-based bioinsecticides designed for sustainable pest control and reduced impact on beneficial insects.

Bindwell Secures $6 Million Seed Round to Accelerate AI-Driven Pesticide Discovery – Agri-tech startup Bindwell has raised $6 million in seed funding co-led by General Catalyst and A Capital, with participation from SV Angel and Paul Graham. The company uses AI models to speed pesticide discovery, operating four times faster than AlphaFold, with funds directed toward R&D expansion and proprietary product development in California.

NitroScope Project Launches to Advance Nitrogen Monitoring Across Europe – The NitroScope project has been launched at Ghent University with 25 partners from 15 countries to improve nitrogen tracking and management. The initiative will deploy advanced sensing technologies at more than 100 sites, build a European nitrogen database, and deliver policy recommendations aligned with EU environmental goals.

Genvor Awarded U.S. Patent for Antifungal Transgenic Corn Technology – Genvor, in partnership with the USDA, has received U.S. Patent No. 12,458,684 for “Transgenic Corn with Antifungal Peptide AGM182.” The patented technology reduces aflatoxin contamination caused by Aspergillus flavus and Fusarium species by up to 98% and was developed using Genvor’s BioCypher™ Algorithm to provide a sustainable alternative to chemical fungicides.

INTERVIEW
Gary Schaefer on CropVoice™: When Soybeans Start Talking to Farmers

• Gary Schaefer, Chief Commercial Officer at InnerPlant, explains how CropVoice™ and InnerSoy™ sensors detect fungal infections in real time through plant-generated optical signals.

• The system’s multi-layer validation process—combining field imaging, lab data, and weather analytics—ensures reliability before farmers receive alerts.

• InnerPlant is scaling rapidly, expanding from 50,000 acres in 2025 to more than 500,000 in 2026 through partnerships with CropLife 100 retailers.

• CropVoice enables precision fungicide application, improving ROI and reducing unnecessary input costs.

• Schaefer envisions a future where plants communicate stress directly, ushering in a proactive, data-driven approach to crop management.

Discover more here.

CEA
New Funding and Innovations

Agroz Inc. Expands AI-Driven Vertical Farming into GCC and Southeast Asia – Agroz Inc. will expand its AI-powered Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) operations into the Gulf Cooperation Council and Southeast Asia, following increased interest from Oman and the UAE. The move aims to enhance food security through sustainable, high-efficiency farming supported by the company’s Agroz OS and Copilot systems.

GoodLeaf Farms secured $52 million in equity financing to expand capacity at its Alberta and Quebec farms and develop a new R&D centre in Ontario. The company reported surging national demand for its baby greens and microgreens, nearly doubling by April 2025. Investors include Farm Credit Canada (FCC), Power Sustainable Lios, and McCain Foods, reflecting confidence in vertically grown Canadian produce.

Harvest Singularity to Invest $66 Million in Florida Hydroponic Facility – Harvest Singularity Holding Co. will invest $66 million to build a 325,000-square-foot hydroponic greenhouse at Newberry’s F-300 AgFoodTech Innovation Park. The facility will produce over three tons of leafy greens daily and create more than 50 jobs, advancing Florida’s technology-driven agriculture sector.

SAIA Agrobotics Raises €10 Million to Advance Greenhouse Automation – Netherlands-based SAIA Agrobotics secured €10 million in new funding, bringing total investment to €20 million. The capital will support the 2026 launch of its “plants-to-robot” automation system designed to boost yields and cut greenhouse labor by up to 50%.

OTHER NEWS
Other Updates: New Funding Round, New Initiative & More!

The Gates Foundation announced a $1.4 billion, four-year commitment to advance climate adaptation and help smallholder farmers build resilience to extreme weather. The announcement, made during COP30 in Belém, Brazil, highlights the need for locally driven adaptation solutions as climate threats intensify across sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia.

Emirates Rawabi PSC and ReFarm Global Investments LLC have entered a strategic partnership to develop regenerative, circular, and resource-efficient solutions for food production and urban landscaping in the UAE. The collaboration aims to reduce water use, enhance soil health, and strengthen national food security while contributing to the UAE’s sustainability and climate goals.

Cropcision has closed a seed funding round backed by Northern Light Capital (NLC) and Partnerinvest Norr, enabling the company to expand production and hire key personnel. The funding supports Cropcision’s mission to develop plastic-free, controlled-release fertilizers, aligning with upcoming EU regulations banning non-biodegradable polymers in fertilizers by 2028.

Qorium has raised €22 million in Series A funding from Invest-NL and LIOF, alongside existing backers Brightlands Venture Partners and Sofinnova Partners. The investment, supported by the European Commission’s InvestEU guarantee scheme, will help the company scale its cultivated leather production and install new bioreactor systems in Maastricht. The company’s biotechnology creates real leather from a few animal cells, eliminating the need for livestock farming while reducing waste and environmental impact.

Casterra Ag Ltd. and Fantini Italia S.R.L. have announced a strategic collaboration to develop large-scale, mechanized castor cultivation systems. The partnership combines Casterra’s proprietary high-yield castor seed varieties with Fantini’s advanced harvesting and threshing technologies. The goal is to support the rising global demand for castor oil, projected to grow from USD 2.4 billion to USD 3.09 billion by 2030.

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Good morning growers,

From fresh funding to tough market exits, this week’s edition captures the full spectrum of developments shaping plant science and AgTech. Companies like Kula Bio, Ginkgo Bioworks, Pairwise, Arevo, and Nufarm are driving innovation through new capital, partnerships, and technology launches — even as parts of the CEA sector face continued financial headwinds.

We’re also spotlighting how AgSTEP is redefining agricultural education in California and tracking new investments across AI, biologicals, and regenerative agriculture.

And, a warm welcome to our new iGrow Network members. We’re glad to have you on board and look forward to keeping you updated on the latest innovations, opportunities, and trends in AgTech. Not a member yet? Register now to join the network!

Estimated Reading Time: 8 - 10 minutes

OUR LATEST AGTECH INTELLIGENCE DASHBOARD SNAPSHOT

A Look Into This Year’s Bankruptcies

Bankruptcies in the AgTech and Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) sectors have accelerated throughout 2025, with notable shutdowns spanning vertical farming, greenhouse technology, and ag-biotech firms. The dataset shows 15 recorded cases of bankruptcy or liquidation between April and November 2025, including companies such as CleanGreens Solutions, Growy Singapore, Eden Green Technology, and Guardian Agriculture. The United States and Europe represent the most affected regions, reflecting the financial strain caused by high operating costs, slow profitability, and tightening capital markets. Several vertical farming companies—Jones Food Company, Hexagro, Freight Farms, and Vertical Future—either ceased operations or entered administration, indicating sustained structural challenges in scaling production efficiency and maintaining investor confidence amid rising energy and real estate costs.

Source: iGrow Dashboard

This wave of bankruptcies stands in sharp contrast to the significant funding rebound observed in 2025 across the broader AgTech landscape, particularly in biologicals, precision agriculture, and plant science. While investors have renewed their appetite for scalable and data-driven solutions, many CEA and hardware-focused startups have struggled to translate investment into sustainable unit economics. The inclusion of sectors beyond indoor farming—such as biotechnology (Oerth Bio) and carbon markets (Direct Carbon)—signals a broader recalibration of priorities. Overall, the data points to a maturing AgTech market where capital is increasingly concentrated in companies demonstrating clear profitability paths, leaving capital-intensive models exposed to heightened risk and consolidation pressures.

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PLANT SCIENCE 
New Funding, Partnerships & Licenses For Plant Science

Kula Bio Secures Series A-1 Funding and Announces Executive Leadership Transition - The new capital will accelerate commercial expansion and further innovation in the company’s microbial nitrogen platform. Harrison Yoon has been appointed Chief Executive Officer, succeeding founding CEO Bill Brady, who becomes Executive Chairman. Frederic Kendirgi has been promoted to Chief Technology Officer, and Geraldo Mattioli, former President of Yara North America, joins as Chief Commercial Officer.

Ginkgo Bioworks and Bayer Extend Strategic Partnership to Advance Agricultural Biologicals - Partnership builds on a successful collaboration launched in 2017, with Bayer retaining commercialization rights. Ginkgo’s agricultural biologicals platform continues to expand, with research efforts centered in West Sacramento.

Pairwise Licenses Fulcrum® Gene Editing Platform to the International Rice Research Institute - The agreement will support the development of high-yield, climate-resilient, and nutrient-enhanced rice varieties. IRRI gains nonexclusive rights to use Fulcrum technologies, including the SHARC™ enzyme system, for research and commercial applications.

Arevo Raises €7.3M to Scale Bio-Based Fertiliser Production and Expand Internationally - The round saw continued investment from Industrifonden, Fort Knox Förvaring AB, Navigare Ventures, and Stora Enso, who also backed Arevo’s previous €6.8 million funding. Arevo produces arginine phosphate, a sustainable fertiliser designed to reduce nitrogen leakage and greenhouse gas emissions while improving soil nutrient retention.

Nufarm Receives EPA Registration for Naxypro® and Naxypro® Plus Insecticides - Both formulations contain chlorantraniliprole, a Nufarm-registered active ingredient offering long-lasting control of key lepidopteran pests. Naxypro® targets chewing and sucking pests in specialty crops, while Naxypro® Plus is designed for broad-acre crops such as soybeans, corn, cereals, and cotton.

INTERVIEW
AgSTEP: Building California’s Agricultural Workforce for a Changing Economy

• AgSTEP is reshaping agricultural education across California through competency-based learning that aligns directly with employer needs.

• Industry collaboration drives curriculum updates, ensuring students are trained on the latest technologies and ready for immediate employment.

• The Foundation for California Community Colleges and partner institutions like Merced College are linking workforce programs to statewide economic initiatives such as California Jobs First.

• Merced College’s Agriculture and Industrial Technology programs are expanding to include fast-track certifications and potential bachelor’s degrees focused on AgTech.

• The model offers national potential, with leaders envisioning replication across other U.S. states as agriculture adapts to automation, AI, and sustainability challenges.

Discover more here.

CEA
Between Funding & Bankruptcies

Source.ag Raises $17.5M in Series B Funding to Accelerate AI Expansion in CEA - The funding was led by Astanor Ventures, with participation from Enza Zaden and Harvest House. The new capital brings total funding to over $60 million since the company’s founding in 2020.

Growy Singapore Ceases Operations Amid Restructuring to Focus on Core Farming Technology - Growy Singapore has announced the voluntary liquidation of its Singapore operations effective October 28, 2025. The decision follows challenges in achieving sustainable profitability despite local support and commercial progress. The company will refocus efforts on its proprietary vertical farming technology developed in Amsterdam.

CleanGreens Solutions Files for Bankruptcy Amid Market Challenges - The company cited inability to secure sufficient funding despite signing a CHF 5 million investment agreement earlier in 2025. The decision will lead to the layoff of all employees, marking the end of operations.

OTHER NEWS
Other Updates: New Funding Round, New Initiative & More!

Ceres AI Secures $13M from Remus Capital to Advance Agricultural Intelligence Platform - The company plans to expand its “AI for AI” system, leveraging data from 40 crop types and 17 billion plant-level measurements across 32 million acres. Remus Capital Partner John Tincoff joins the Ceres AI board alongside an AI agent, Arista — the world’s first AI board member.

Farm to Feed Secures $1.5M Seed Funding to Combat Food Loss and Boost Farmer Incomes - The round includes $1.27M in equity and $230,000 in non-dilutive funding from DEG’s DeveloPPP Ventures programme. Investors include Delta40 Venture Studio, DRK Foundation, Catalyst Fund, Holocene, Marula Square, 54Co, Levare Ventures, and Mercy Corps Ventures.

Sustainea Bioglycols Launches Regenerative Agriculture Project in Partnership with Primient - The project supports 1,000 acres of farmland in Lafayette, Indiana, promoting soil health and carbon sequestration. Collaboration with Primient builds on Sustainea’s sustainable sourcing strategy for Bio-MEG production.

Tikehau Capital’s Regenerative Agriculture Strategy Closes at €560M - Tikehau Investment Management has finalized the Regenerative Agriculture Strategy at €560 million (US$652.85 million). The fund targets sustainable food systems, soil health, and climate-positive agriculture. The close contributed to €5.2 billion in total fundraising year-to-date, according to Tikehau’s Q3 2025 results.

BCF Life Sciences Secures Second Patent for Leafamine® Technology - The technology repurposes poultry feathers as a raw material, aligning with circular economy principles. The patented hydrolysate contains 82% free amino acids, allowing for quicker plant absorption and improved growth.

Nuvio Planet and KWS Expand Partnership to Scale Environmental Intelligence Across Global Agri-Food Systems - The Nuvio Planet platform reduced analysis time by 50% and helped achieve up to 30% lower CO₂ emissions in livestock systems. The model is now being scaled across 12 countries, covering milk, egg, and meat production systems.

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Good morning growers,

From biologicals and AI breeding to controlled environments and drone automation, agricultural innovation is accelerating across sectors. This week’s AgTech Digest highlights how companies are scaling sustainable technologies, advancing regulatory milestones, and expanding globally—underscoring a year defined by precision, partnerships, and platform growth.

And, a warm welcome to our new iGrow Network members. We’re glad to have you on board and look forward to keeping you updated on the latest innovations, opportunities, and trends in AgTech. Not a member yet? Register now to join the network!

Estimated Reading Time: 8 - 10 minutes

OUR LATEST AGTECH INTELLIGENCE DASHBOARD SNAPSHOT

Plant Science 2025: Biologicals, AI, and Genomics Lead Activity

Regulatory momentum is lifting biologicals and alternative chemistries, with new approvals and clearances (e.g., Biotalys EVOCA 10/31; BASF Zorina™ 10/16; FireHawk Bioherbicide™ 5/19; ADAMA Temper™ 5/13). Field results back commercialization (DPH Biologicals 4/24; Concert Bio 5/16; Enko 5/21; NRGene Green 9/5), while launches in stress management and nutrition (Acadian Plant Health 2/20; Lucent Bio 6/25) point to resistance management, residue-light solutions, and input efficiency as near-term priorities.

Capital and deals concentrate on AI breeding, gene editing, and data platforms—financings (Wild Bioscience $60M 10/17; Inari $144M 1/7; Treefera $30M 6/3; Solynta €20M 7/21) alongside partnerships (Profluent–Corteva 10/7; Micropep–Corteva 6/18; Syngenta–Tropic 5/6; Mars–Pairwise 8/8). Portfolio moves (Corteva separation, FBN spinoff 10/2; Miraterra–Trace Genomics assets 7/8; ICL–Lavie Bio 4/15) and activity centered in Europe/North America—with growing Middle East links—signal tighter focus on scalable platforms and routes to market.

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AGTECH
New Funding Round, Initiative & More in AgTech

Agtonomy Secures $18M Series B to Scale Agricultural Automation
Agtonomy closed an oversubscribed $18 million Series B round led by DBL Partners with participation from Nuveen and existing investors. The funding will accelerate its physical AI platform for tractors and field machinery, expand commercial operations, and strengthen OEM partnerships to address labor shortages and boost on-farm efficiency.

California AgTech Alliance Launches $15M Statewide Innovation Program
The California AgTech Alliance has launched a $15 million initiative to advance technology deployment, workforce training, and regional collaboration. Backed by UC ANR, CDFA, and GO-Biz, the program will establish nine innovation hubs to support climate resilience, equitable access, and sustainable agricultural growth statewide.

Fieldwork Robotics Advances AI-Driven Raspberry Harvesting in Portugal
Fieldwork Robotics and the Research Centre for Sustainability are leading a 24-month R&D program to optimize robotic raspberry harvesting for Driscoll’s Reyna™ and Maravilla™ varieties. Partnering with Lusomorango, INIAV, Driscoll’s, and Maravilha Farms, the project explores AI efficiency and night operations to address labor shortages and enhance yield quality.

Agreena Introduces Agatha, an AI Assistant for Regenerative Agriculture
Agreena has launched Agatha, an AI assistant within the AgreenaGro platform that uses satellite imagery to support data-driven crop planning, pest detection, and regenerative practice assessment. Currently in beta, it complements farmers’ expertise while ensuring GDPR-compliant data use.

Thunderstruck Ag Launches eCommerce Platform for Farmer-Invented Technologies
Thunderstruck Ag has launched an eCommerce platform providing farmers and dealers 24/7 access to farmer-developed products. The site enables direct orders, bulk management through a dealer portal, and detailed product information to simplify purchasing and expand access to on-farm innovations.

PLANT SCIENCE 
New Acquisition, Registration & Funding For Plant Science

Planasa to Acquire Illinois Foundation Seeds Inc. (IFSI)
Planasa has agreed to acquire Illinois Foundation Seeds Inc. (IFSI), expanding its global footprint in plant genetics and sustainable innovation. IFSI will retain operational independence while gaining access to EW Group’s resources to advance research and develop climate-resilient plant varieties. The acquisition remains subject to regulatory approval.

Plastomics Raises $5.8M to Advance Chloroplast Engineering in Crops
Plastomics has secured $5.8 million in Series B funding from investors including Fulcrum Global Capital and Missouri Technology Corporation. The funding will advance its chloroplast engineering platform for corn and soybean innovation, enabling field trials and transgenic trait development aimed at improved pest and herbicide resistance.

Biotalys Nears EPA Approval for Protein-Based Biofungicide EVOCA
Biotalys announced that the U.S. EPA has issued a proposed registration decision recommending approval of its protein-based biofungicide, EVOCA. The EPA also granted a tolerance exemption for its active ingredient, supporting safer crop use. EVOCA targets botrytis and powdery mildew and will be followed by an enhanced formulation, EVOCA NG.

INTERVIEW
Bill Irby on Drones, Data, and the Future of Precision Agriculture

AgEagle is driving the next phase of precision agriculture through drone-based data and secure, service-driven models. “Why apply inputs across an entire field when technology can pinpoint problem areas?” said Bill Irby, CEO of AgEagle.

Irby noted that service-based operations are becoming the dominant model for drone use, led by specialized providers in high-production regions. AgEagle’s integration of multispectral sensors is already showing results in Australia, Spain, and Canada, improving yield, input efficiency, and research precision.

With NDAA compliance now a core priority, Irby said AgEagle is focused on secure, domestic manufacturing and innovation. “Compliance protects data integrity and supports trusted supply chains,” he said. Looking ahead, AgEagle’s roadmap centers on next-generation UAVs and R&D to expand precision agriculture’s reach and profitability.

Discover more here.

CEA
New Initiative, Acquisition & More for CEA

Earnest Agriculture Expands Prairie Power Soybean Project
Earnest Agriculture is expanding its Prairie Power Soybean project and preparing a new funding round to scale production and distribution. Field trials showed a 6% yield increase across multiple U.S. states, with plans to treat over 50,000 acres by 2026. The platform leverages native prairie microbes to enhance soil health and resilience, with Prairie Power Corn set to launch in 2026.

Edible Garden Expands Michigan Facility to Boost Production Capacity
Edible Garden has added a new production line at its Grand Rapids, Michigan facility to improve efficiency and meet rising demand from retailers such as Kroger, Meijer, and Walmart. The upgrade, supported by the GreenThumb® greenhouse management platform, strengthens supply chain resilience and sustainability while enhancing delivery performance ahead of the holiday season.

Gardin and Priva Partner to Integrate Photosynthesis Analytics and Climate Control
Gardin has partnered with Priva to integrate its photosynthesis analytics into Priva’s climate automation system, giving growers unified access to plant and climate data. The collaboration enhances real-time monitoring, early stress detection, and lighting efficiency, promoting data-driven, sustainable crop management in controlled environments.

Nazca Capital Acquires Majority Stake in Hydroponics Firm SanSan
Nazca Capital has acquired a majority stake in Spanish hydroponics company SanSan through its Nazca Small Cap II Fund. Known for its blueberry cultivation systems, SanSan will expand internationally and broaden its product portfolio to include pest control solutions. The partnership supports continued double-digit growth and sustainable agriculture innovation.

OTHER NEWS
Other Updates: New Funding Round, New Initiative & More!

• PepsiCo updates its Climate Resilience Platform (CRP) to enhance climate modeling and data access.CRP 2.0 introduces new features, broader global coverage, and expanded collaboration with industry partners. The update was co-funded by FFAR, contributing $1 million to advance climate adaptation research.

• $1.2 million awarded to 17 Long Island aquaculture businesses to expand equipment and production. Initiative part of New York’s Blue Food Transformation program to strengthen local seafood systems. Round 2 of the Long Island Aquaculture Infrastructure Grant Program to open November 3 with $3 million available.

• Fruitist, a global fresh fruit and healthy snack brand, has raised $150 million in equity financing led by a vehicle managed by J.P. Morgan Asset Management, alongside new and existing investors. The funding will support Fruitist’s global growth, increased production, and rising demand for fresh, healthy alternatives to processed snacks. The brand’s products — including Jumbo blueberries, Snack Cups, blackberries, raspberries, and cherries — are now sold through major U.S. retailers such as Costco, Walmart, Trader Joe’s, Publix, and Whole Foods.

• Abu Dhabi has announced a landmark initiative to establish a regulatory framework for novel foods, reinforcing its leadership in global food innovation and sustainable agriculture. The collaboration between the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA), the Abu Dhabi Quality and Conformity Council (QCC), and the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) aims to streamline the registration of next-generation food products and position the emirate as a world leader in advanced food technologies.

• The Green Climate Fund (GCF) approved Mandala Capital’s SSEA Food Fund at its 43rd Board Meeting. GCF committed $36 million as an anchor investor in the $250 million blended finance fund. The fund will drive climate adaptation and resilience in South and Southeast Asia’s agrifood systems.

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Good morning growers,

From smart greenhouses and AI-powered crop tools to cross-border research and carbon programs, innovation continues to expand across the continent. This week’s Dashboard Snapshot highlights how European companies are forming new partnerships, scaling technologies, and entering international markets — reflecting a year defined by collaboration, applied innovation, and global reach.

And, a warm welcome to our new iGrow Network members. We’re glad to have you on board and look forward to keeping you updated on the latest innovations, opportunities, and trends in AgTech. Not a member yet? Register now to join the network and our Next Meet & Greet, on Wed 29th October!

Estimated Reading Time: 8 - 10 minutes

OUR LATEST AGTECH INTELLIGENCE DASHBOARD SNAPSHOT

Europe’s AgTech in 2025: Expansion, Partnerships, and Applied Innovation

In 2025, AgTech activity in Europe has been marked by steady diversification across research, commercialization, and international collaboration. Greenhouse and CEA technology providers such as KUBO, Van der Hoeven, and Grodan expanded through new partnerships and projects in the Middle East and North America, focusing on climate-controlled production and knowledge exchange. Companies including Signify, Priva, and Source.ag continued to develop digital and automation tools, supported by ongoing trials aimed at improving yield and energy efficiency. In crop protection and biologicals, Amoéba, Biotalys, and Micropep Technologies advanced regulatory and R&D milestones, while firms like Rijk Zwaan and BASF introduced new crop varieties and inputs to address evolving production needs.

Source: Data Provided By The iGrow Dashboard

Partnerships across the region increasingly involve collaboration between research institutes, corporates, and investors, often extending beyond Europe. Syngenta announced projects with SALIC, Taranis, and PepsiCo, while Delphy, BIOPHI, and Dutch Greenhouse Delta pursued initiatives linking European expertise with international markets. Companies in regenerative agriculture, such as Agreena, Klim, and TotalEnergies, launched new digital tools and carbon programs to support data-driven land management. Overall, European AgTech firms continue to broaden their global presence through export agreements, research collaborations, and targeted digital deployments, reflecting an emphasis on practical scalability and regional partnerships.

If you’d like to understand where your company fits within Europe’s expanding AgTech ecosystem — from partnerships and funding opportunities to international market entry — we’re offering a free 15-minute discovery call.

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AGTECH
New Partnership, Initiative & More in AgTech

EagleNXT Launches MicaSense™ RedEdge-P™ Triple Sensor System
EagleNXT has launched the MicaSense™ RedEdge-P™ Triple Sensor System, a drone-mounted solution combining three RedEdge-P cameras to capture 15 spectral bands simultaneously. Designed for precision agriculture, mapping, and environmental monitoring, it delivers centimeter-level accuracy through RTK positioning and supports detailed crop, soil, and habitat analytics.

Agtonomy Expands Across U.S. and Australia, Adds Tech Veteran to Board
Agtonomy has expanded operations across the U.S. and Australia with its third-generation Agtonomy Platform™ for autonomous specialty and permanent crop management. The company appointed Michael Abbott, former GM executive with leadership roles at Apple, Twitter, and Microsoft, to its Board of Directors as it scales its automation and physical AI solutions.

AgZen and Corteva Partner to Advance RealCoverage™ Spray Optimization
AgZen and Corteva have partnered to test and scale RealCoverage™, which measures and optimizes agrochemical spray coverage in real time. Deployed on more than 970,000 U.S. acres since 2024, the technology will undergo in-lab and field testing with Corteva’s crop protection products to improve efficiency and sustainability.

HGS BioScience Acquires NutriAg to Expand North American Platform
HGS BioScience has acquired Toronto-based NutriAg Ltd. to create a comprehensive North American bionutritional platform. The merger combines HGS’s expertise in humic and fulvic acids with NutriAg’s bionutritional technologies, expanding offerings across amino acids, plant extracts, and microbial solutions.

Carbon Robotics Raises Additional $20M
Carbon Robotics raised $20 million in new funding to enhance its AI-powered automation systems for farming. This brings the company’s total funding to $177 million as it expands operations across 14 countries. The latest investment will accelerate product development, including a new AI-driven robot designed for tasks beyond weeding.

PLANT SCIENCE 
New Registration, Product & More For Plant Science

Amoéba Gains U.S. EPA Approval for Biocontrol Products
Amoéba has secured U.S. EPA authorization for its AXPERA NOA and AXPERA GREEN biocontrol products targeting fungal pathogens in specialty crops and turfgrass. Commercial rollout is planned for 2026 through its partnership with Koppert, strengthening Amoéba’s U.S. and global market presence.

Sumitomo to Launch Global Biorational Company
Valent BioSciences, MGK, and Valent North America will merge under Sumitomo Biorational Company LLC in April 2026. Led by Dr. Shinsuke Shojima, the unit will serve as Sumitomo Chemical’s global hub for sustainable, microbials- and botanicals-based innovation.

Micropep Unveils AI Platform for Peptide Discovery
Micropep Technologies has launched Krisalix™, an AI-driven platform to accelerate peptide-based crop protection discovery. The platform integrates generative AI and biological modeling, with over 10 candidates in trials and a research partnership with Corteva Agriscience.

Oerth Bio Shuts Down After Four Years
Oerth Bio, a Bayer–Arvinas joint venture focused on protein degradation technology for agriculture, has ceased operations. Founded in 2019, the company sought to develop new biological modes of action for pest and disease control.

Plant Health Care Nears Approval for Biological Nematode Solution
Plant Health Care is close to regulatory approval for PHC68949, the first foliar-applied biological nematode treatment. California’s pesticide regulator has completed review and opened public comment, paving the way for commercialization.

INTERVIEW
Nina DePalma on Data, Regulation, and the Next Phase of Regenerative Agriculture

HowGood is building the largest database for food- and ag-specific emissions data, designed to help companies measure and reduce environmental impact through dynamic, ingredient-level analysis.

“We are purpose-built for the food and ag system,” said Nina DePalma, Chief Product Officer at HowGood. “Our platform provides accurate, evolving product carbon footprints aligned with regulatory and Scope 3 reporting needs.”

DePalma noted that regenerative agriculture is entering a new phase of measurable, data-driven performance. “The most important part is accurate measurement and chain of custody,” she said. “Projects emerging in 2026 will be more real, more operational, and standard business practice.”

HowGood is expanding plug-and-play access to its Global Carbon Database and advancing as a PACT network hub for product carbon footprint exchange.

Discover more here.

CEA & AGRIBUSINESS
New Initiative & Partnership for CEA & AGRIBUSINESS

Rainbow North America Opens Partner Production Center in Illinois
Rainbow North America has opened a 182,000-square-foot Partner Production Center in Champaign, Illinois, to enhance agrochemical manufacturing efficiency. Featuring six automated lines, 22 loading docks, and Free Trade Zone status, the facility expands Rainbow’s production capacity and earned local recognition as “Rainbow North America Day.”

KUBO and Amtar Al Khair Partner on High-Tech Greenhouse Project in Saudi Arabia
KUBO and Amtar Al Khair Agricultural Crops Company have agreed to build and operate a one-million-square-meter high-tech greenhouse zone in Saudi Arabia’s Jazan region. The project integrates Dutch controlled-environment systems and supports Saudi Vision 2030 goals for food security, sustainable farming, and local employment.

OTHER NEWS
Other Updates: New Funding Round, New Initiative & More!

• Rockcliffe Labs has launched its first dedicated program to systematically create 100 biotechnology and life sciences ventures over the next decade. The platform’s structured model integrates scientific discovery, entrepreneurship, and capital alignment to transform Canadian research into global businesses. A new partnership with a leading Canadian university provides Rockcliffe Labs with IP access and a 7.5% shared equity structure in all co-created ventures.

• TRACT announced the closing of a €18.6 million Series A round. The funding was led by climate tech investor Icos Capital with participation from Invest International, Future Food Fund, Rabo Investments, Pymwymic, and Working Capital Fund.

• Syngenta and Saudi Agricultural and Livestock Investment Company (SALIC) have signed an LOI to promote sustainable farming, soil health, and digital farm management in Saudi Arabia and beyond, supporting national food security goals.

• NoMy Japan and Kagome Co., Ltd. begin collaboration to study product development using NoMy’s proprietary mycoprotein. The project will assess technical feasibility, sensory characteristics, and commercial potential of new food prototypes.Mycoprotein, derived from koji, offers high protein and fiber content with low fat and sustainable production.

• Enko Capital has raised US$100 million in the first close of its impact-focused private credit strategy, targeting US$150 million at final close and a US$200 million hard cap. Key investors include British International Investment (BII), IFC, SICOM Global Fund Limited, a European impact investor, and several African pension funds and family offices. The Fund will provide U.S. dollar-denominated private credit to mid-market companies across Sub-Saharan Africa in non-cyclical sectors such as agriculture, telecommunications, renewable energy, manufacturing, and financial services.

Special Thanks to Our Directory Members

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Not listed yet? Add your company to the directory and start getting noticed!

Good morning growers,

Global expansion is shaping the next phase of AgTech growth in 2025. Companies are moving beyond proof-of-concept to scale operations across regions, supported by a surge in funding, product launches, and technology integration. The iGrow Dashboard captures this momentum—from North America’s leadership in automation and input distribution to Europe’s research-driven greenhouse growth and Asia’s diversification into AI, biotech, and digital farm systems.

And, a warm welcome to our new iGrow Network members. We’re glad to have you on board and look forward to keeping you updated on the latest innovations, opportunities, and trends in AgTech. Not a member yet? Register now to join the network.

Estimated Reading Time: 8 - 10 minutes

OUR LATEST AGTECH INTELLIGENCE DASHBOARD SNAPSHOT

Where Are AgTech Companies Expanding?

In 2025, company expansion activity in AgTech has been led primarily by established and mid-stage firms in Precision Agriculture, Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA), and Biologicals, reflecting a shift from startup experimentation to commercialization and scale. Precision Agriculture firms—such as Sabanto, SwarmFarm Robotics, and Ecorobotix—are expanding internationally through distribution and technology integration agreements, particularly into North America, Oceania, and Latin America, driven by automation, retrofitting, and AI-driven decision tools. Meanwhile, greenhouse and vertical farming companies like Little Leaf Farms, 80 Acres Farms, Singrow, and Green Automation continue to grow their operational footprints across North America, Europe, and Asia, signaling a phase of consolidation and capacity scaling in the CEA sector.

Data by the iGrow Dashboard

Geographically, North America remains the central hub for expansions, but there’s a clear eastward push—European and Israeli companies are targeting Asia and the Middle East, while North American firms are increasing presence in Latin America and Africa through partnerships and facility openings. Thematically, these expansions often tie to automation, sustainability, and regenerative practices, with companies like Klim, FoodChain ID, and La Caisse/CEFC embedding carbon and regenerative frameworks into new markets. Overall, the dataset shows a maturing ecosystem where capitalized, product-ready companies are scaling globally through strategic partnerships rather than greenfield entry, with Precision Ag and CEA leading internationalization efforts.

Want to know which regions are best positioned to accelerate next—and what signals will define the next wave of global AgTech growth?

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AGTECH
New Funding, Initiative & Product in AgTech

Ecorobotix Showcases AI-Powered Spraying Innovation & Bags $150M
Ecorobotix will debut its AI-driven Plant-by-Plant™ technology at Agritechnica 2025, featuring an Ultra-High Precision (UHP) spraying system that cuts pesticide use by up to 95%. Backed by $150 million in funding led by Highland Europe, ECBF, and McWin Capital Partners, the company will expand R&D, develop new products, and apply its precision algorithms to more crops and markets.

Maia Ventures Launches €55 Million AgriFoodTech Fund
Milan-based Maia Ventures has launched its first €55 million fund to invest in 20 to 25 early-stage AgriFoodTech startups. Backed by institutional and private investors including EIF, CDP Venture Capital, and major Italian food companies, the fund focuses on food-as-medicine, novel ingredients, automation, and resilient supply chains.

Vive Crop Protection Raises $10 Million to Accelerate Innovation
Vive Crop Protection has raised $10 million in new funding led by Farm Credit Canada, Emmertech, iSelect, and BDC Capital. The investment will advance product innovation, commercialization, and expansion across North America, aligning with Farm Credit Canada’s $2-billion agri-food innovation pledge by 2030.

Hort Innovation Launches $30 Million Weed Management Initiative
Hort Innovation has launched a $30 million “Next Generation Weed Management” project to integrate AI robotics and automation in Australian horticulture. Partnering with Applied Horticultural Research, Nufarm, and La Trobe University, the initiative aims to reduce costs, enhance productivity, and promote sustainable, non-chemical farming practices.

Reservoir Ventures Launches Fund for Specialty Crop Startups
Reservoir Ventures has launched a venture fund targeting early-stage agtech startups in specialty crops. Led by Matthew Hoffman, Ph.D., the fund will invest in robotics, precision agriculture, and AI-driven SaaS platforms, building on the Reservoir Farms incubator model to bridge innovation and farm adoption.

PLANT SCIENCE 
New Registration, Funding & Product For Plant Science

BASF Receives EPA Registration for Zorina™ Fungicide
BASF Agricultural Solutions has received EPA registration for Zorina™ fungicide to manage white mold and other foliar diseases in soybeans, canola, and dry beans. Combining Endura® and Revysol® fungicides, Zorina™ provides broad-spectrum protection and extended residual activity to preserve yield potential.

Ascribe Bio Raises $12 Million to Advance Natural Crop Protection
Ascribe Bio has raised $12 million in Series A funding led by Corteva and Acre Ventures to accelerate commercialization of its small-molecule crop protection platform. The investment supports the launch of Phytalix®, a biofungicide that combines conventional efficacy with environmental and health benefits.

Wild Bioscience Secures $60 Million for AI-Driven Crop Breeding
Wild Bioscience has secured $60 million in Series A funding led by the Ellison Institute of Technology to expand its AI-driven precision breeding for climate-resilient crops. The investment will accelerate field trials, commercialization, and data-driven trait discovery to enhance productivity and sustainability.

Celleste Bio Unveils Chocolate-Grade Cocoa Butter via Plant Cell Culture
Celleste Bio has unveiled the world’s first chocolate-grade cocoa butter produced through plant cell culture technology. The bio-identical product matches conventional cocoa butter in texture, melting behavior, and fatty acid profile, offering a scalable and sustainable alternative for premium chocolate.

Micropep Technologies Launches Krisalix™ for Peptide Discovery
Micropep Technologies has launched Krisalix™, an AI-powered platform integrating generative AI and predictive modeling to accelerate bioactive peptide discovery. The platform shortens R&D timelines from concept to candidate molecule in months, with over 10 peptide-based crop protection candidates currently in development.

INTERVIEW
Simon Constance on Supply Chain Transparency and Regenerative Agriculture Data

Treefera is developing an AI-enabled data fabric to strengthen global commodity supply chains through satellite, sensor, and verified ground data.

“We bring the same precision that financial markets demand into the world of commodities and carbon,” said Simon Constance, Head of Partnerships.

He noted that supply chains are shifting from efficiency to transparency, with verified origin data now a prerequisite for market access.

Constance added that technology is turning regenerative agriculture from a narrative into measurable, data-driven performance.

Discover more here.

CEA
New Initiative, Funding & Product for CEA

Little Leaf Farms Expands CEA Operations
Little Leaf Farms has expanded its McAdoo, Pennsylvania campus to become the world’s largest controlled environment agriculture (CEA) facility for leafy greens. The 40-acre site supports growing demand for Romaine Leaf lettuce and will be followed by a new campus in Manchester, Tennessee, opening in Fall 2026.

Fragaria Fruits Raises $2 Million to Scale High-Tech Berry Farming
Fragaria Fruits has raised $2 million in seed funding to expand its indoor berry farming operations in India. The company will scale vertical farming capacity, enhance supply chain infrastructure, and launch its premium brand, Oh! Fruits.

Signify Identifies Lighting Strategy to Double Lettuce Yields
Signify’s Philips GrowWise Research Center has developed optimized light and temperature strategies that double crispy lettuce yields in vertical farming systems. The study found yield gains of up to 50% from increased light levels and 33% from higher temperatures, with improved shelf-life across all conditions.

Local Bounti Expands Washington Facility and Launches New Salad Kit
Local Bounti has expanded its Pasco, Washington facility and launched the Romano Caesar Family-Size Salad Kit at Walmart. The 10-ounce product is available in 89 stores and showcases the company’s Stack & Flow Technology® as part of a multi-region growth strategy.

OTHER NEWS
Other Updates: New Funding Round, New Initiative & More!

• FoodChain ID has certified Mulino Bianco’s Buongrano as the first cookie in Italy made with 100% regenerative soft wheat flour. The certification, issued under the FoodChain ID Regenerative Agriculture (RGN) Standard, verifies outcomes related to soil health, biodiversity, and climate resilience.

• PepsiCo introduces its first-ever Global Farmer Awards at headquarters in Purchase, NY. Event honors 60 farmers and advisors from 19 countries for excellence in sustainability, innovation, and leadership.Awards reinforce PepsiCo’s pep+ Positive Agriculture goals to scale regenerative practices across 10 million acres by 2030.

• Driscoll’s has pledged $5 million to Cal Poly’s College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences to establish a state-of-the-art farm store within the university’s upcoming Plant Sciences Complex. The investment supports Cal Poly’s Learn by Doing philosophy, giving students hands-on experience across production, marketing, retail, and applied research. The farm store, set to open in 2027, will serve as a hub for food system innovation, uniting the university’s agricultural enterprises and fostering community engagement.

• Phagos closes a $30 million Series A round co-led by CapAgro, Hoxton Ventures, CapHorn, and Demeter. Funding will accelerate deployment of veterinary phage therapies, AI platform development, and global expansion. The company achieved a regulatory first as the world’s first firm authorized to market personalized phage-based veterinary drugs.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Reuters Events: Transform Food & Agriculture USA 2025

Saudi Agriculture | October 20 – 23, 2025 | Riyadh, KSA

Special Thanks to Our Directory Members

Established Plan:
SpectraGrow, LettUs Grow, Harvest Returns, Women in CEA, Harnois Greenhouses, Verde Compacto

Scale-Up Plan:
Sollum Technologies, Babylon Micro-Farms, Ounce of Hope Aquaponics, Grow-Tec, Microclimates, Growtainer

Not listed yet? Add your company to the directory and start getting noticed!

Good morning growers,

Partnerships continue to define how the AgTech ecosystem grows and scales in 2025. As technologies mature, companies are shifting from isolated pilot projects to collaborative models that merge research, data, and commercialization. The iGrow Dashboard highlights how firms are linking tools, platforms, and expertise to address global challenges—from carbon measurement and regenerative practices to AI-powered plant breeding and fully automated production systems.

And, a warm welcome to our new iGrow Network members. We’re glad to have you on board and look forward to keeping you updated on the latest innovations, opportunities, and trends in AgTech. Not a member yet? Register now to join the network.

Estimated Reading Time: 6 - 7 minutes

OUR LATEST AGTECH INTELLIGENCE DASHBOARD SNAPSHOT

How Do AgTech Companies Partner?

Across sectors, “product/technology integration” and “strategic” tie-ups dominate. Plant Science and Crop Genomics feature heavily in cross-company R&D—e.g., AI-assisted trait development, gene editing toolchains, and distribution agreements to push nitrogen-fixing microbes or biologicals to market. Controlled-environment production (greenhouse + vertical farming) shows steady movement toward interoperable systems: climate computers integrating root-zone and gutter data, AI harvest forecasting, and education/research consortia to expand the talent pipeline. Precision Agriculture remains the connective tissue—robotics, satellite/drone imagery, and farm management platforms—often coupled with finance or MRV to unlock incentives. Carbon Market activity is increasingly programmatic (soil/forest removals with long-dated delivery), while AgriFinTech partnerships focus on working-capital access (forward-flow agreements) and farm accounting integrations.

Data by the iGrow Dashboard

Regionally, North America leads on volume and breadth—robotics fleet expansions, long-term carbon credit offtakes, farm-finance scale-ups, and retailer/distribution channels for inputs and biologicals. Europe concentrates on greenhouse automation and low-energy production research, plus strong Plant Science collaborations anchored by Netherlands/Switzerland hubs. The Middle East continues to scale CEA infrastructure (UAE centers of excellence, giga-scale vertical farms), alongside digital farm management rollouts across MENA-linked acreage; Israel-origin tech appears frequently in carbon and data/quantum projects. Asia presents mixed momentum: Southeast Asia sees vertical farming deployments and blockchain/traceability pilots, China advances ag-RWA/payments and drone MoUs, and Japan collaborates on climate-risk analytics for Africa. Latin America highlights crop breeding (rice, wheat), fertilizer/offtake MoUs, and supply-chain data partnerships; Oceania focuses on livestock (virtual fencing/public-lands pilots) and emissions-reduction research initiatives.

Deal structures skew toward integrations (product, technology, and platform), with research partnerships and MoUs as on-ramps to commercialization; joint ventures appear where asset intensity is high (indoor farms, funds, facilities). Notable themes cut across sectors: (1) data interoperability from field sensor → satellite → AI model → retailer/bank workflow; (2) measurement and verification (regen, carbon, Scope 3) embedded into input distribution and grower services; and (3) regionalization—solutions localized via local banks, co-ops, universities, and public agencies to accelerate adoption. Overall, partnerships are being used less as one-off pilots and more as scale mechanisms linking agronomy, data, finance, and distribution.

Want to see which emerging objectives are beginning to reshape the landscape—and how they compare?

Book a discovery call to explore our solutions directly: Schedule here.

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Catch the full recap on this week’s AgTech Digest Podcast—available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite platform.

PLANT SCIENCE 
New Partnerships, Funding & Product For Plant Science

Syngenta Crop Protection and Taranis have announced a new strategic partnership to scale their proven digital crop management model across the Midwest. Building on successful 2025 pilot results, the companies will jointly equip agricultural retailers with advanced AI technology and agronomic expertise to deliver faster, more data-driven decisions for growers.

Profluent Bio announced a strategic collaboration with Corteva. The partnership combines artificial intelligence and gene editing to create a new generation of sustainable and resilient crops. The companies will design targeted, AI-driven gene-editing solutions within Corteva’s Genlytix™ ecosystem, a suite of technologies supporting next-generation plant breeding and genome precision.

The James Hutton Institute has secured a £3 million investment from Scottish Enterprise to establish a new high throughput phenotyping facility within its Advanced Plant Growth Centre (APGC), part of the Crop Innovation Centre (CIC). The technology-driven facility will enable researchers to study plant architecture and health using lasers and sensors, mapping how genetics and environmental changes affect crop performance.

Indigo Ag has launched Nemora FP™, a microbial bionematicide seed treatment specifically designed for soybeans. Recently registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the product will be available for use in spring planting. According to company data, Nemora FP™ reduces nematode egg hatch by an average of 68% while maintaining the crop’s yield potential.

CEA
CEA Updates: New Partnership, New Initiatives & More!

Grønt fra Nord, has announced the successful completion of a USD 1.2 million convertible financing round. The investment marks a significant milestone in the company’s growth strategy and reinforces support from both existing and new partners.

Agroz Inc. has announced a strategic collaboration with U.S.-based Harvest Today, LLC. The partnership will introduce the Agroz Groz Wall, a modular vertical growing solution designed to make pesticide-free, nutrient-rich produce accessible closer to where it is consumed.

Viemose DGS and Ledgnd have announced a partnership to merge their respective technologies for high-tech leafy greens production. The integration connects Ledgnd’s MyLedgnd data platform directly with Viemose’s Moving Gutter Systems, creating a unified digital dashboard that compiles real-time insights from sensors, plant feedback, climate computers, and other measurement systems.

Premier Tech Growers and Consumers has expanded its trusted PRO-MIX® AGTIV® product lineup to better serve Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) growers. The enhanced portfolio improves crop productivity and quality while reaffirming Premier Tech’s commitment to excellence in CEA, according to the company.

UK-based agri-tech company LettUs Grow announced a new strategic partnership with HAWE Cultivation Systems BV. The collaboration marks HAWE’s addition to LettUs Grow’s Global Partnership Programme as an integration partner, reflecting both companies’ shared commitment to advancing sustainable cultivation technologies.

OTHER NEWS
Other Updates: New Funding Round, New Initiative & More!

• Klim launched its new digital companion tool in the UK. The platform is designed to support farmers in adopting regenerative practices while helping F&B companies measure progress and impact across global supply chains.

• Planet Labs PBC and VITO announced an extension of their partnership to advance global Earth observation solutions. The collaboration combines Planet Labs’ satellite imaging capabilities with VITO’s analytics platforms to provide near real-time insights supporting agriculture, environmental monitoring, and climate resilience.

• UbiQD, a leader in quantum dot (QD) materials, announced the publication of peer-reviewed results from a landmark greenhouse study funded by the USDA through its NIFA. Conducted at the University of California, Davis, the study shows that UbiQD’s luminescent QD-laminated glass significantly enhances plant growth, nutrient uptake, and energy efficiency in CEA systems—without electricity or mechanical input.

• Gowan Company and Ceradis have announced the integration of Ceradis into the Gowan Group, combining the company's international strength in crop protection and seeds with Ceradis’ expertise in formulation, development, and registration of crop protection compounds. The partnership aims to accelerate the delivery of innovative, sustainable solutions to growers worldwide.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Reuters Events: Transform Food & Agriculture USA 2025

Saudi Agriculture | October 20 – 23, 2025 | Riyadh, KSA

Special Thanks to Our Directory Members

Established Plan:
SpectraGrow, LettUs Grow, Harvest Returns, Women in CEA, Harnois Greenhouses, Verde Compacto

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Sollum Technologies, Babylon Micro-Farms, Ounce of Hope Aquaponics, Grow-Tec, Microclimates, Growtainer

Not listed yet? Add your company to the directory and start getting noticed!

Good morning growers,

This week’s update features headlines on Corteva’s planned split into two organizations, alongside new platforms, funding rounds, and partnerships shaping agtech and food systems. YLI debuts its H.A.R.V.E.S.T. accelerator, Terra Robotics advances laser weeding, and Aydi launches an AI-powered agronomy assistant. SwarmFarm and Helios secure major funding, while Cibus and NRGene push ahead in plant science. We also cover new investments in farmland and sustainable polymers, a UAE crop resilience hub, and developments in CEA with Greeneration, Burro, and Area 2 Farms.

And, a warm welcome to our new iGrow Network members. We’re glad to have you on board and look forward to keeping you updated on the latest innovations, opportunities, and trends in AgTech. Not a member yet? Register now to join the network.

Estimated Reading Time: 6 - 7 minutes

OUR LATEST AGTECH INTELLIGENCE DASHBOARD SNAPSHOT

Where Is Investor Capital Flowing in 2025?

Funding activity in 2025 shows significant momentum across a few leading categories. Plant Science led with more than $235M raised, reflecting strong investor confidence in technologies advancing crop traits and input efficiency. Precision Agriculture followed closely with $191M, highlighting continued demand for automation, data-driven farming, and decision-support tools. Vertical Farming also drew major attention, securing over $139M in new capital this year (Though the majority was raised by a single company).

Beyond these, Livestock recorded one of the largest single-category totals of the year at $185M, emphasizing strong backing for technologies supporting animal health, productivity, and supply chain efficiency. Carbon Market investments topped $251M (Majority raised by a single company), while Greenhouse solutions captured $36M.

Data From The iGrow Dashboard

Data indicates that capital is clustering around plant science, precision tools, livestock, and carbon market/regenerative agriculture are gaining strong traction. Many sectors’ totals are also being driven by large, single-company rounds—for example, Chestnut Carbon ($250M), Halter ($100M), and Inari ($144M). The takeaway: 2025 reflects both consolidation in proven, scalable solutions and the gradual expansion of capital into climate resilience and digital transformation.

Data From The iGrow Dashboard

Want to see which emerging objectives are beginning to reshape the landscape—and how they compare?

Book a discovery call to explore our solutions directly: Schedule here.

🎧 Prefer listening over reading?

Catch the full recap on this week’s AgTech Digest Podcast—available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite platform.

AGRITECH
AgTech Highlights: New Initiative, New Funding Round & More!

The Yield Lab Institute launches H.A.R.V.E.S.T. AgTech platform

• Yield Lab Institute has introduced H.A.R.V.E.S.T. AgTech, a program to accelerate startups with funding, research, and partnerships.

• Building on the Wells Fargo Innovation Incubator, which supported 77 startups raising nearly $290M, the platform adds new partners such as UC Agriculture & Natural Resources and the N.C. Plant Sciences Initiative.

• Its Ecosystem Partner Network will link 12 U.S. regions and expand abroad, including Argentina and the UK.

Terra Robotics raises €1.8M for laser weeding

• The Greek startup secured €1.8M led by Uni.Fund to commercialize its laser-based weeding system.

• By combining robotics, AI, and lasers, the technology aims to reduce herbicide use and manual labor.

• The funding will support scaling production, pilot projects, and partnerships with farmers.

Aydi secures $7.5M to launch AI agronomy tool

• Aydi raised $7.5M in seed funding from COTU Ventures, Daltex, Nuwa Capital, and others to launch its digital agronomy assistant, Orth.

• Orth uses satellite monitoring, predictive analytics, and conversational AI to help farmers cut costs and improve yields, claiming efficiency gains of more than 20%.

• The platform will debut at Fruit Attraction in Madrid from September 30 to October 2, 2025.

SwarmFarm Robotics closes AUD 30M Series B

• The Queensland-based company raised AUD 30M, led by Edaphon with $7M from the Clean Energy Finance Corporation.

• SwarmFarm’s autonomous “SwarmBots” can reduce herbicide use by up to 95% and cut fuel emissions by 35%.

• The new capital will fund North American expansion and further development of its open ecosystem of farming attachments.

Helios AI raises $4.7M to launch supply chain platform

• Helios AI closed a $4.7M seed round led by Collide Capital to support its growth and the rollout of Helios Horizon.

• The platform covers 75+ commodities, offering forecasts on prices, climate, and supply risks, with instant reports available on demand.

• Starting at $299 per month, it is designed to make advanced analytics accessible to small and mid-sized businesses.

PLANT SCIENCE & AGRIBUSINESS
Plant Science & Agribusiness Updates: New Initiative, New Acquisition & More!

Cibus completes 2025 HT2 Canola field trials

• Cibus reported strong results from U.S. field trials of its second-generation herbicide tolerance (HT2) Canola.

• The crop, developed using its Rapid Trait Development System, is designed to improve weed control while reducing herbicide use.

• Results build on earlier greenhouse tests and highlight Cibus’ focus on sustainable crop innovation.

Corteva to split seed and crop protection businesses

• Corteva announced plans to separate into two companies by late 2026.

• “New Corteva” will focus on crop protection and biologicals, projecting $7.8B in 2025 sales.

• “SpinCo” will concentrate on seed innovation, with expected 2025 sales of $9.9B.

NRGene launches tomato seeds resistant to ToBRFV

• NRGene, in partnership with Philoseeds, began commercial sales of tomato seeds with high resistance to Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus (ToBRFV).

• Trials in Switzerland and Canada showed consistent performance and high fruit quality.

• The resistance trait has been licensed to seed companies in Europe, South Africa, and the U.S., aiming to address widespread production losses in greenhouses.

WisdomTree acquires farmland investor Ceres Partners

• WisdomTree completed its $275M acquisition of Ceres Partners, with an additional $225M earnout possible by 2030.

• The deal marks WisdomTree’s entry into private markets, offering investors diversified exposure to farmland.

• Ceres’ platform is expected to expand opportunities in areas such as solar leasing, AI infrastructure, and water rights.

SVG Ventures and Kagome invest $50M in EF Polymer

• SVG Ventures, alongside Kagome Co., invested $50M through the Sunrise Agri Fund in EF Polymer.

• The Okinawa-founded company develops biodegradable, plant-based polymers that help farmers conserve water and withstand drought.

• EF Polymer, active in Japan and India, plans to scale its sustainable solutions internationally to address climate-driven challenges.

Silal and Limagrain launch crop resilience research hub in UAE

• Silal and Limagrain Vegetable Seeds have partnered to establish the Center of Excellence for Abiotic Resilience and Crop Genomics (ARC-GEN) at the Silal Innovation Oasis in Al Ain.

• The center will focus on developing crops that can withstand heat, drought, and salinity, while advancing research in crop genomics.

• Two research units will drive the work: Plant Physiology, studying stress responses and seed adaptability, and Gene Editing, applying techniques to enhance crop traits.

CEA
CEA Updates: New Partnership, New Initiatives & More!

Greeneration partners with Harvest IQ to boost UAE food security

• Dubai-based vertical farm Greeneration, founded by Roman Ulyanov, has teamed up with Harvest IQ to strengthen local food security.

• The partnership combines Greeneration’s premium crop supply with Harvest IQ’s distribution expertise.

• The focus is on delivering specialty crops day-of-harvest to high-end restaurants and hotels, supporting both sustainability and the regional culinary supply chain.

Burro expands autonomous fleet at Petitti Family Farms

• Burro is scaling up its Burro Grande robots at Petitti Family Farms in Ohio, growing the fleet from 10 to 25 units by the end of 2025.

• The robots currently tow heavy loads and will soon add autonomous spraying to ease labor pressures.

• With 4,000 production acres and millions of plants shipped annually, Petitti Farm highlights the robots’ quick adoption by workers and significant productivity gains.

Area 2 Farms raises $9M to expand indoor farming network

• Area 2 Farms secured $9M in funding led by Slow Ventures and Seven Seven Six, with ANIMO Ventures also participating.

• Its pilot site in Arlington, Virginia, has delivered 20,000+ harvests to over 1,000 customers, with new farms planned in Fairfax.

• Long-term, the goal is to establish farms within 10 miles of every U.S. household, supporting resilience and access to fresh food.

OTHER NEWS
Other Updates: New Funding Round, New Initiative & More!

• Evfarmer commits USD 40 million to support Sierra Leone’s agricultural sector. Investment to focus on staple, cash, and specialty crops, alongside new technologies. Plan includes development of a full agricultural ecosystem from production to sales.

• Verra has verified the AgreenaCarbon Project, supported by Agricarbon’s soil data. The project is the first large-scale arable agriculture initiative to achieve verification. Verification has resulted in the release of 2.3 million carbon credits. Agricarbon contributed soil samples and analysis from across Europe.

• FoodChain ID and Agmatix form a strategic partnership to accelerate adoption of regenerative agriculture. Collaboration combines certification credibility with data-driven agronomic intelligence. FoodChain's clients gain access to Agmatix’s RegenIQ AI-powered model. Agmatix clients can pursue FoodChain ID’s Regenerative Agriculture Certification.

• KhetiBuddy has rebranded as Verdnt, reflecting its mission to deliver smarter, more sustainable insights for agri-businesses. The new identity emphasizes data-driven decision-making, sustainability, and global expansion. Verdnt integrates data from across the crop cycle — from tractors and sensors to satellites and weather stations.

UPCOMING EVENTS

AgraME | October 6 – 7, 2025 | Dubai

Vertical Farming World Congress | Oct 7-9, 2025 | Amsterdam

Reuters Events: Transform Food & Agriculture USA 2025

Saudi Agriculture | October 20 – 23, 2025 | Riyadh, KSA

Special Thanks to Our Directory Members

Established Plan:
SpectraGrow, LettUs Grow, Harvest Returns, Women in CEA, Harnois Greenhouses, Verde Compacto

Scale-Up Plan:
Sollum Technologies, Babylon Micro-Farms, Ounce of Hope Aquaponics, Grow-Tec, Microclimates, Growtainer

Not listed yet? Add your company to the directory and start getting noticed!

Good morning growers,

This week’s update covers advances in edge AI, biological inputs, and climate-smart farming. NEXCOM debuts autonomous ag tech, Aphea.Bio and Syngenta boost microbial and AI tools, and ZenaTech expands drone services. GreenLight Bio earns EPA approval, Bioceres scales HB4® wheat, and FarmBox grows hospital-based farming. Also: DTN’s AI weather upgrade, AGCO’s €54M engine push, and new funding in feed, cotton, and irrigation.

And, a warm welcome to our new iGrow Network members. We’re glad to have you on board and look forward to keeping you updated on the latest innovations, opportunities, and trends in AgTech. Not a member yet? Register now to join the network.

Estimated Reading Time: 6 - 7 minutes

NEW: OUR LATEST AGTECH INTELLIGENCE DASHBOARD SNAPSHOT

What’s shaping the next wave of agtech innovation?

In 2025, most AgTech product announcements were concentrated in Precision Agriculture (57) and Crop Protection (24), which together represented nearly 70% of launches and underscored the industry’s emphasis on automation, decision support, and crop protection solutions. A second tier of activity came from AgriBusiness (20), CEA (15), and Plant Science (13), reflecting steady innovation in value-chain services, controlled environments, and genetics. Sustainability (5) — which covers regenerative agriculture, climate tech, and carbon markets — remained a smaller category in terms of product launches, but sustainability and resilience still ranked as the leading product objectives, suggesting these themes cut across multiple sectors rather than standing alone

Data From The iGrow Dashboard

Overall, the data indicates that while field-focused technologies dominate current innovation, companies are also laying groundwork in climate-oriented solutions, digital platforms, and biotech that could expand their influence over time.

Want to see which emerging objectives are beginning to reshape the landscape—and how they compare? Join the waitlist here and be among the first to explore the tools shaping the future of agriculture.

🎧 Prefer listening over reading?

Catch the full recap on this week’s AgTech Digest Podcast—available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite platform.

AGRITECH
AgTech Highlights: New Initiative, New Acquisition & More!

NEXCOM Debuts Edge AI System for AgTech

• NEXCOM has launched the ATC 3561-NA4C, a rugged Edge AI computer designed for use in smart agriculture applications.

• Built on the NVIDIA Jetson Orin Nano™ platform, it delivers up to 67 trillion operations per second (TOPS), supporting high-performance AI tasks.

• The system enables autonomous operations such as planting, weeding, crop monitoring, and harvesting.

• Engineered for field conditions, it operates reliably in temperatures ranging from -25°C to 65°C.

• NEXCOM will showcase the device at Embedded World North America in Anaheim, California, from November 4–6, 2025.

ZenaTech Acquires A&J to Expand Drone Services

• ZenaTech has acquired A&J Land Surveyor, marking its tenth acquisition in its Drone-as-a-Service (DaaS) strategy.

• The move enhances ZenaTech’s footprint in Florida, particularly in the aviation, utility, and marine infrastructure markets.

• This acquisition supports ZenaTech’s plan to operate 25 DaaS locations across the U.S. by mid-2026.

• The integration is expected to accelerate the adoption of drone-based solutions in airport operations, utility inspections, and coastal monitoring.

Reservoir Farms Expands Field Trials for AgTech Startups

• Reservoir Farms, founded by Danny Bernstein, provides on-farm testing hubs to help AgTech startups validate and refine their products.

• Its current hubs in Salinas, CA, and Yuma, AZ, offer year-round access to professional growers and researchers.

• The model is designed to address a major barrier for startups—limited access to real-world testing environments. Strategic partnerships with established players like John Deere and the University of California lend credibility and technical support.

• The initiative aims to accelerate innovation in specialty crop production, while contributing to food security and climate resilience efforts.

Syngenta and Heritable Use AI to Optimize Seed Placement

• Syngenta has partnered with Heritable Agriculture to apply artificial intelligence to vegetable seed placement decisions.

• The collaboration will analyze historical data—such as geography, crop trials, and environmental conditions—to improve seed performance predictions.

• The goal is to match seed varieties with specific regional and climatic conditions, improving outcomes for growers.

• Syngenta highlights this as part of its broader commitment to precision agriculture and grower-centric solutions.

• Heritable Agriculture sees the integration of AI as a key advancement in bringing data-driven decision-making to crop planning.

PLANT SCIENCE
Plant Science Updates: New Initiative, New Partnership & More!

Aphea.Bio Advances Microbial Crop Protection with Grant

• Aphea.Bio received a VLAIO grant to launch its TRΛNSCEND platform for microbial crop protection.

• The platform will screen 5,000 proprietary Microbial Natural Products (MNPs) for commercial potential.

• The goal is to move select candidates into product development within two years.

• CEO Isabel Vercauteren positioned TRΛNSCEND as a major step toward sustainable agriculture.

• The project could yield up to 30 new biological products over the next eight years, with improved quality control and speed to market.

InnerPlant Detects Soybean Disease Before Symptoms Appear

• InnerPlant’s CropVoice™ network has enabled early detection of fungal infections in soybeans.

• Farmers in Nebraska and South Dakota received alerts before visible symptoms emerged.

• The network currently covers 50,000 acres, with plans to expand to 500,000 acres by 2026.

• The system integrates engineered plants, agronomic expertise, and real-time field data.

• Subscription access via retailers supports more proactive disease management for growers.

EPA Approves RNAi Treatment to Protect Honey Bees

• GreenLight Bio’s Norroa™ received EPA registration as the first RNAi-based treatment for varroa mites.

• The product offers up to 18 weeks of protection and is safe for bees, humans, and the environment.

• It addresses urgent needs as U.S. beekeepers lost 1.7 million colonies between June 2024 and March 2025.

• Norroa uses RNA interference to selectively target mites and is distributed via Mann Lake Ltd.

• Industry groups view the approval as a critical step in protecting pollinators and agriculture.

Bioceres and Colorado Wheat Partner on HB4® Wheat

• Bioceres Crop Solutions partnered with CWRF to advance HB4® wheat in the U.S. market.

• The collaboration focuses on climate resilience and sustainable weed control in wheat systems.

• CWRF will manage trait licensing to breeding programs; Bioceres will oversee regulatory processes.

• The initiative includes development of new herbicides paired with biological inputs.

• An open licensing model is intended to broaden industry adoption.

BioLumic and Fonterra Target Climate-Smart Ryegrass

• BioLumic and Fonterra will co-develop light-activated traits for ryegrass using the xTraits™ platform.

• The approach enhances traits without genetic modification, using targeted light treatments.

• The project aims to improve pasture productivity and lower methane emissions in dairy systems.

• Initial trials are set for 2026, with commercial launch planned for 2028.

• The collaboration targets farmer-driven innovation in New Zealand’s forage sector.

CEA
CEA Updates: New Founding Round, New Initiatives & More!

Forever Feed Raises $4M for Sprouted Grain Systems

• Forever Feed Technologies secured a $4 million investment from JR Automation to build eight FFT Grow Systems™.

• Each system can produce up to 50 tons of sprouted grain daily, offering a sustainable livestock feed alternative.

• The first system, operational since October 2024 at River Ranch Dairy in California, uses 95% less water than traditional alfalfa farming.

• The system has the potential to replace 700 acres of conventional farmland and improve dairy feed efficiency.

• Full-scale rollout is planned for 2025 to support broader industry adoption.

Gooddrop Unveils UK-Grown Cotton Garment

• Gooddrop Ltd introduced the first garment made from cotton grown in the UK at its vertical farming R&D site.

• Harvested in August 2025, the cotton was turned into a garment within four weeks, highlighting local textile innovation.

• Sustainable fashion label TAMMAM collaborated on the design to showcase traceability and beauty in sustainable apparel.

• The project demonstrates the potential for regenerative textile production within controlled environments.

• This milestone reflects growing momentum in eco-conscious British fashion.

FarmBox Foods Brings Container Farms to Hospitals

• FarmBox Foods is working with healthcare providers to deploy on-site container farms like "WellFarm" at Wellstar Hospital in Georgia.

• These farms grow fresh, pesticide-free produce in climate-controlled environments for patient meals and wellness programs.

• The approach supports the "food as medicine" model while addressing health equity and community nutrition.

• Designed for non-farmers, the system includes training and support for hospital staff.

• Early results suggest benefits in nutrition and potential financial return, driving interest across North America.

Grodan & Signify Expand Tomato Trials for Efficiency

• Grodan and Signify have extended their greenhouse trial to include large tomato varieties after success with cherry tomatoes.

• The trial, based in Botany, explores high-quality tomato production with lower heat input and consistent yields.

• It uses precision irrigation, light optimization, and Grodan’s stone wool substrate for efficient nutrient uptake.

• The Axia Macxize XR variety is the current focus, tested under enhanced light conditions for improved efficiency.

• Previous trials showed sustainable yields with reduced energy use, supporting ongoing innovations in CEA.

AGRIBUSINESS
Agribusiness Highlights: New Partnership, New Initiatives & More!

DTN, NVIDIA & AWS Partner on AI Weather Forecasting

• DTN is collaborating with NVIDIA and AWS to improve the accuracy and speed of weather forecasting using AI.

• The integration uses NVIDIA Earth-2 AI models alongside DTN’s forecasting expertise.

• AWS provides scalable infrastructure to support enhanced forecast generation and delivery.

• The collaboration aims to support better operational decisions and reduce losses tied to extreme weather.

AGCO Expands Finnish Plant for Sustainable Engine Production

• AGCO has invested €54 million in its Linnavuori plant to increase engine remanufacturing and machining capabilities.

• The expansion raises annual remanufactured engine output from 1,000 to 2,500 units.

• Facilities will support Continuously Variable Transmission components and cylinder head production.

• Up to 80% of each remanufactured engine’s mass will be reused, cutting carbon emissions significantly.

Genome BC Backs Sustainable Protein and Smart Irrigation

• Genome BC’s I² Fund invested $1.75M in Maia Farms to scale mycelium-based protein production.

• Maia uses agricultural byproducts in bioreactors and partners with local universities on resilient food systems.

• Verdi received $1.5M to expand its AI-driven irrigation and crop management tools.

• The fund aims to bridge research and commercialization in sustainable agriculture and agtech innovation.

OTHER NEWS
Other Updates: New Funding Round, New Initiative & More!

• Chestnut Carbon secures $90 million in follow-on financing from CPP Investments. Total Series B funding rises to $250 million, up from $160 million announced earlier this year. Company also closed a $210 million non-recourse project finance credit facility. Funds to support U.S. afforestation projects and technological innovation.

• Fruitist has announced a partnership with 888 Midas, the investment firm founded by NFL quarterback Caleb Williams. 888 Midas invests in consumer, health, wellness, sports, media, and entertainment sectors. The collaboration emphasizes a shared commitment to promoting healthy snacking and wellness.

• Field to Market launches Version 5 of its Fieldprint Platform through a redesigned website. Updates include a new soil carbon indicator, revised greenhouse gas and energy metrics, and enhanced usability. The release supports Scope 3 emissions reporting and long-term sustainability tracking.

• Nuvio Planet, an environmental intelligence platform originally incubated at BASF, has completed a management buyout (MBO), transitioning into a fully independent, founder-led company. Independence will allow Nuvio Planet to scale its platform more quickly, innovate with greater flexibility, and deepen its focus on the agri-food sector. The platform is already trusted by companies such as Evonik, KWS, and Bestmix.

• Groundwork BioAg and Anew Climate announced a collaboration to market 500,000 tons of mycorrhizal carbon dioxide removal (CDR) credits within three years. The credits are generated through Groundwork’s Rootella Carbon® program, verified under the Verra VM0042 standard. Independent verification by SCS Global confirmed sequestration of 3.89 tCO₂e/acre in 2023, exceeding industry benchmarks.

UPCOMING EVENTS

AgraME | October 6 – 7, 2025 | Dubai

Vertical Farming World Congress | Oct 7-9, 2025 | Amsterdam

Special Thanks to Our Directory Members

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Good morning, growers,

This week’s update highlights new advances in crop spraying, nitrogen management, biological inputs, and farm automation.

Ecorobotix released its 2026 spraying algorithms, while Messium raised £3.3M for AI-driven nitrogen tools. BIOWEG closed a €16M Series A to scale biodegradable materials, and PlantArcBio secured patents for its CRISPR-supporting DIPPER™ platform.

BASF expands xarvio to South America, PATS raised €2.7M for pest tech, and Tidal Grow launched a new foliar nitrogen product.

Other updates include La Zone Agtech’s partnership with Fasken, Row 7’s cabbage launch in Whole Foods, Moleaer’s global deal with Xylem, Nasekomo’s BSF milestone, and INNOFarms.AI’s robotics debut. Additional funding news from feld.energy and Nofence rounds out this week’s edition.

And, a warm welcome to our new iGrow Network members. We’re glad to have you on board and look forward to keeping you updated on the latest innovations, opportunities, and trends in AgTech. Not a member yet? Register now to join the network.

Estimated Reading Time: 6 - 7 minutes

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Launching October 1st on the iGrow Network, our new AgTech Dashboard offers exclusive insights into funding trends, tech developments, and startup activity—available under our Pro and Plus plans.

Want early access? Join the waitlist here and be among the first to explore the tools shaping the future of agriculture.

🎧 Prefer listening over reading?

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AGRITECH
AgTech Highlights: New Funding Round, New Partnership & More!

Ecorobotix Unveils 2026 Spraying AI

• Ecorobotix has launched its 2026 precision spraying algorithms, enabling the use of non-selective herbicides in vegetable farming.

• Its Plant-by-Plant™ AI can now distinguish between monocots and dicots across multiple crops.

• This helps protect sensitive crops like broccoli and cauliflower and tackles issues such as volunteer potatoes in carrot fields.

• Future algorithms will include leeks, garlic, celery, potatoes, and ragwort.

• The update will be commercially available in March 2026.

Messium Secures £3.3M for Nitrogen Tech

• Messium raised £3.3 million in seed funding, co-led by UKI2S and Expansion, with participation from additional investors.

• The funds will support international growth and scaling of its hyperspectral satellite and AI nitrogen tools.

• Its system delivers lab-grade nitrogen insights at 5-meter resolution.

• The goal is to improve yields, lower input costs, and promote sustainable farming.

La Zone Agtech Partners with Fasken

• La Zone Agtech has formed a strategic partnership with law firm Fasken to support agtech and plant bioproduct startups.

• The collaboration will provide legal and strategic services to accelerate commercialization.

• Fasken’s Agrifood and Beverage group will play a key role in helping Quebec-based companies scale globally.

• The initiative aims to support sustainable solutions in food and climate.

BASF Expands xarvio Platform to South America

• BASF will launch its xarvio FIELD MANAGER For AgBusiness in Argentina and Brazil by late 2025.

• The platform serves large-scale farm operations and advisors with tailored agronomic insights.

• Key features include enhanced dashboards and a Scouting Trips function for field prioritization.

• Expansion to France and Germany is planned for 2026.

• Available across desktop and mobile, the tool is backed by BASF Agricultural Solutions.

BIOWEG Raises €16M for Biotech Scale-Up

• BIOWEG has closed a €16 million Series A to build its first industrial bacterial cellulose facility in Germany.

• Investors include Axeleo Capital, the EIC Fund, NBank Capital, BonVenture, and Dr.-Ing. Frank Jenner.

• The funding supports its biodegradable alternatives for cosmetics, home care, and agriculture.

• BIOWEG uses food industry by-products and precision fermentation.

• The company operates a pilot site in Quakenbrück and a lab in Monheim.

PLANT SCIENCE
Plant Science Updates: New Initiative, Funding Round & More!

PlantArcBio Secures Patents for Gene Tech

• PlantArcBio has received patents in the U.S. and South Korea for its DIPPER™ platform, which enhances gene expression for CRISPR editing in crops.

• The platform uses a high-throughput in planta method to identify DNA elements that improve crop traits like yield, drought tolerance, herbicide resistance, and nutritional value.

• These patents expand the company’s IP portfolio and aim to support faster development and commercialization of improved crop traits.

• The technology aligns with global goals for more sustainable food systems.

PATS Raises €2.7M for Pest Tech Expansion

• PATS has secured €2.7 million in seed funding from investors including Division Q, Percival Participations, and Delft Enterprises.

• The funding will support international growth, production scale-up, and product development.

• Its AI-powered pest management system includes real-time pest tracking, forecasting tools, and autonomous drones to reduce pesticide use.

• The goal is to support more sustainable agriculture through integrated technology and biology.

Tidal Grow Launches alignN® Nitrogen Product

• Tidal Grow AgriScience has introduced alignN®, a foliar nitrogen fertilizer using align® Technology for broadacre crops.

• The 18-0-0 formula delivers encapsulated urea directly into leaves, improving absorption and reducing nutrient loss.

• Field trials have shown improvements in plant health and yield potential.

• Compatible with various application methods, alignN® is priced competitively with conventional nitrogen products.

• The company plans global expansion and new product development, aligning with 4R Nutrient Stewardship practices.

Verde AgriTech Granted Patent for Bio Fertilizer

• Verde AgriTech has received a Brazilian patent for its bio-enriched fertilizer production process.

• The method, developed by its subsidiary Verde Fertilizantes LTDA, combines glauconitic siltstone with beneficial microbes.

• It eliminates the drying stage, reducing costs and maintaining microorganism viability for up to 180 days.

• Benefits include enhanced nitrogen fixation, phosphate solubilization, biocontrol, and growth promotion.

• This is Verde’s fifth patent in Brazil, strengthening its position in sustainable agtech.

Row 7 Launches Sweet Cabbage at Whole Foods

• Row 7 Seed Company has rolled out its new Sugarcone cabbage variety in 325 Whole Foods Market locations across key U.S. regions.

• Available from September to mid-November, it features a naturally sweet flavor and tender texture, setting it apart from standard cabbage types.

• The variety is suited to raw and cooked preparations, including salads, roasting, grilling, and fermentation.

• The launch highlights Row 7’s focus on flavor-first breeding for home cooks.

• Other seasonal produce like Upstate Abundance potatoes and Honeypatch squash are also available.

CEA
CEA Updates: New Partnership, Initiatives & More!

Moleaer Partners with Xylem on Water Tech

• Moleaer has entered a global partnership with Xylem, including a distribution deal and strategic investment.

• The collaboration aims to scale nanobubble systems for municipal and industrial wastewater treatment.

• Moleaer’s technology improves gas transfer and accelerates treatment processes, leading to reduced chemical use, better compliance, and higher energy efficiency.

• With over 4,000 systems installed globally, the company’s solutions are already deployed across multiple sectors.

• The partnership builds on Moleaer’s participation in Xylem’s Innovation Labs and seeks to advance sustainable water treatment practices.

Nasekomo Hits Insect Reproduction Milestone

• Nasekomo has reached a milestone in Black Soldier Fly (BSF) reproduction, producing ~25g of eggs per cubic meter per day.

• This output makes the company’s technology suitable for mid- to large-scale insect farming operations.

• The achievement stems from advances in genetics (via its FlyGenetics program), biology, and industrial process design at its “MultiFly” Multiplication Center. It follows progress made in Nasekomo’s automated vertical rearing platform earlier in 2025.

• The company is now commercializing its BSF tech with turnkey solutions and secured egg supply for global customers.

• EU and national funding supported the development, with commercial discussions underway in Europe and the Americas.

INNOFarms.AI Debuts Smart Farming Platform

• INNOFarms.AI launched its GrowSmartRobotics system at the Global Vertical Farming Show 2025 in Dubai.

• Designed for controlled-environment agriculture, the platform integrates AI vision, IoT sensors, and robotics.

• It supports key tasks like plant scouting and precision harvesting, helping reduce labor costs and improve speed and accuracy.

• When paired with the INNOFarmsXOS operating system, it is designed to cut operational costs and boost crop yields.

• The launch aligns with expected growth in the agricultural robotics sector.

OTHER NEWS
Other Updates: New Funding Round, New Initiative & More!

• feld.energy has secured a €10 million seed round to scale its Agri-PV technology. The round was led by HV Capital, with participation from Future Energy Ventures, AENU, and Angel Invest. Agri-PV enables farmland to produce food and solar energy simultaneously, offering farmers diversified income streams.

• Nofence has raised €30 million in Series B funding, reported as the largest AgriTech round in Europe so far in 2025. The company develops virtual fencing solutions for cattle, goats, and sheep, aiming to improve land use and animal welfare. Funding will support product development, international expansion, and more efficient grazing solutions for farmers worldwide.

• McDonald’s USA has announced the Grassland Resilience and Conservation Initiative, its largest investment in regenerative agriculture to date. The program will allocate more than $200 million over seven years to promote grazing practices, habitat restoration, and water conservation. The initiative covers up to 4 million acres across 38 U.S. states, with participation from ranchers in McDonald’s beef supply chain.

• Agreena secures verification of its AgreenaCarbon Project under Verra’s Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) Program. First large-scale arable agriculture project globally to meet VM0042 Improved Agricultural Land Management v2.0 methodology. 2.3 million Verra-verified carbon credits now issued, reflecting immediate climate impact. Project covers 1.6 million hectares across 10 European countries, reducing 1.2 million tonnes CO₂ and removing 1.1 million tonnes CO₂.

• IICA urges governments, private sector, and partners to prioritize rural youth in sustainable development strategies. The organization warns that migration, aging populations, and inequality threaten rural communities. Proposed measures include improving infrastructure, education, connectivity, and agribusiness opportunities. IICA highlights the transformative role of digital agriculture and innovation for the region’s future.

UPCOMING EVENTS

AgraME | October 6 – 7, 2025 | Dubai

Vertical Farming World Congress | Oct 7-9, 2025 | Amsterdam

Special Thanks to Our Directory Members

Established Plan:
SpectraGrow, LettUs Grow, Harvest Returns, Women in CEA, Harnois Greenhouses, Verde Compacto

Scale-Up Plan:
Sollum Technologies, Babylon Micro-Farms, Ounce of Hope Aquaponics, Grow-Tec, Microclimates

Not listed yet? Add your company to the directory and start getting noticed!

Good morning, growers,

This week’s AgTech Digest covers developments in farm automation, biofertility, controlled environment agriculture, and agribusiness strategy.

NeoFarm raised €30 million to expand robotic organic farms in Europe. Good Agriculture secured $1.5 million for its AI-based farm management platform, and QA Farmer launched a mobile app for row crop producers. Hasfarm announced a planned A$270 million acquisition of Lynch Group, and Greener Pastures introduced a kiwifruit investment fund linked to New Zealand’s investor visa program.

Nutrien is divesting its stake in Profertil for $600 million. MustGrow Biologics obtained a $2 million credit line to scale production, while Nitricity raised $50 million to build a low-emission fertilizer plant. GDM acquired full ownership of AgReliant Genetics to expand its seed portfolio.

Grow-tec published results from its vertical farming facility, highlighting water savings and yield metrics, with plans for further crop trials and international expansion.

And, a warm welcome to our new iGrow Network members. We’re glad to have you on board and look forward to keeping you updated on the latest innovations, opportunities, and trends in AgTech. Not a member yet? Register now to join the network.

What We Are Covering Today:

1. AgTech & Precision Agriculture Highlights: New Funding Round, New Acquisition & More!

2. Plant Science & Agribusiness Updates: New Initiative, Funding Round & More!

3. AgriBusiness & CEA Updates: New Initiatives & More!

4. Other Updates: New Initiative, New Program & More!

5. Upcoming AgTech Events, Conferences & Webinars

Estimated Reading Time: 6 - 7 minutes

Food Security SummitX Dubai 2025 – Startup Opportunities

Pitch Lounge, Foodpreneurs Collective, and Meiraj A.I. are co-promoting the Food Security SummitX Dubai 2025 (Sep 17–18) and co-producing the Startup Ceremony on Day 1 (3:25–4:25 PM GST) at the H Hotel, Dubai.

Only two Startup Promotion, Coaching & Pitching Packages remain (with a free Delegate Pass) — apply now! A sponsorship slot for the Startup Ceremony is also open (email expo@pitchlounge.net or apply via their website).

Tickets are selling fast, but seats, exhibition spaces, and sponsor spots are still available. View the agenda, passes, and details on their website — and get 10% off with code 10FOODPRENEURSCOLLECTIVE.

🎧 Prefer listening over reading?

Catch the full recap on this week’s AgTech Digest Podcast—available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite platform.

AGRITECH & PRECISION AGRICULTURE
AgTech & Precision Agriculture Highlights: New Funding Round, New Acquisition & More!

NeoFarm Raises €30M to Scale Robotic Organic Farms

• French agtech startup NeoFarm secured €30 million in Series B funding, co-led by ADEME Investissement and Eurazeo Smart City.

• Funds will support a 25-hectare flagship farm in Lisses, Essonne, set to launch by late 2025.

• The site will include greenhouses, biodiversity zones, robotic tools, and on-site vegetable processing.

• Target production capacity is 1,300 tons of organic vegetables annually, grown without chemical inputs.

• NeoFarm plans to deploy over 25 similar large-scale farms across Europe by 2030.

• The company integrates agroecology, robotics, and farm management software to improve sustainability and food sovereignty.

Good Agriculture Secures $1.5M Seed Round

• Agtech startup Good Agriculture raised $1.5 million in seed funding, led by Nicely Road.

• The company offers an AI-powered platform that streamlines administrative tasks for farmers.

• Tools such as Digital Farm Hand and Farm Funding Match aim to boost farmer efficiency and profitability.

• The platform encourages adoption of regenerative agriculture by reducing operational friction.

QA Farmer Launches All-in-One Mobile App for Row Crops

• QA Farmer released a mobile app for row crop farmers, available on Apple App Store and Google Play.

• The app consolidates weather forecasts, grain prices, bin inventory, and agronomy tools.

• Features include field-specific forecasts, local elevator bids, spray timing alerts, and agronomist connections via FarmQA.

• The app was introduced at the Big Iron Farm Show in Fargo, North Dakota.

Hasfarm to Acquire Lynch Group for A$270M

• Hasfarm Holdings Limited signed a Scheme Implementation Agreement to acquire Lynch Group Holdings Limited for ~A$270 million.

• Lynch shareholders will receive A$2.245 per share in cash, pending approval and independent review.

• The acquisition aims to create a vertically integrated floriculture platform spanning Vietnam, China, and Indonesia.

• The combined entity targets improved supply chain efficiency and expanded market access in China, Japan, and Australia.

Greener Pastures NZ Launches Kiwifruit Investment Fund

• Greener Pastures New Zealand launched the Kiwifruit Fund under New Zealand’s Active Investor Plus visa program.

• The fund focuses on kiwifruit orchards and Zespri shares to support national agriculture and land ownership.

• This is the third such fund from Greener Pastures and Origin Capital Partners, managing over NZD 225 million in kiwifruit assets.

• A Diversified Fund option is also available for investors seeking lower-risk visa pathways.

PLANT SCIENCE & AGRIBUSINESS
Plant Science & Agribusiness Updates: New Initiative, Funding Round & More!

Nutrien Ltd. Divests Stake in Profertil S.A.

• Nutrien Ltd. is selling its 50% stake in Profertil S.A. for approximately US$600 million (pre-tax).

• Buyers include Adecoagro S.A. and Asociacion de Cooperativas Argentinas Coop Ltda.

• The sale supports Nutrien's strategy to focus on core assets and strengthen its financial position.

• Proceeds will go toward growth investments, share buybacks, and debt reduction.

• The transaction is expected to close by the end of 2025, pending closing conditions and right of first refusal.

• Profertil previously contributed about US$60 million annually to Nutrien’s Nitrogen segment.

MustGrow Biologics Secures $2M Credit Line

• MustGrow Biologics obtained a $2 million credit line from CIBC, backed by Export Development Canada.

• Funds will support production of the biofertility product TerraSante™ for U.S. market demand.

• The credit also provides working capital for Canadian distributor NexusBioAg.

• Loan terms include an interest rate of prime +1%, currently totaling 5.95%.

• The company plans to pursue a larger credit facility to meet growing product demand.

Nitricity Raises $50M for Organic Fertilizer Plant

• Nitricity closed a $50 million Series B funding round, co-led by World Fund and Khosla Ventures.

• Funding will support construction of its first organic fertilizer plant in Delhi, California, operational in 2026.

• The plant will produce Ash Tea, a liquid organic fertilizer made from almond shells and renewable inputs.

• Ash Tea is positioned as a cost-effective, low-emission alternative to conventional fertilizers.

• Capital will also support U.S. and European expansion, hiring, and R&D.

• Nitricity has offtake agreements through 2028 and a production pipeline exceeding $150 million.

GDM Acquires Full Ownership of AgReliant Genetics

• GDM has acquired the remaining 50% stake in AgReliant Genetics from Vilmorin & Cie and KWS.

• The deal expands GDM’s footprint in North American corn and soybean genetics.

• AgReliant brands (AgriGold®, LG Seeds, PRIDE® Seeds) and corn R&D assets will be integrated into GDM.

• The combined company now holds one of the largest temperate corn germplasm pools globally.

• GDM operates the fourth-largest corn research program in North America.

• Brian Barker, former AgReliant CEO, is appointed President of GDM North America.

CEA
CEA Updates: New Initiatives & More!

Grow-tec Publishes Case Study on Indoor Vertical Farming

• Grow-tec, an Israeli agtech firm with 20 years in Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA), released a case study on its indoor vertical farming facility.

• The study outlines technical feasibility, crop protocols, and investor-focused economic models.

• Reported results include yields four times higher than open-field farming and over 90% water savings.

• The 460 m² facility, operational since 2020, utilizes mobile racks, climate control, and recirculating hydroponics. The system enables year-round cultivation of fruiting crops without pesticide use.

• Performance metrics include tomato yields of ~790 kg/m²/year and cucumber yields of ~1100 kg/m²/year. Grow-tec is trialing new crops and planning international expansion in the next 2–5 years.

OTHER NEWS
Other Updates: New Funding Round, New Initiative & More!

• Cairnspring Mills secures $1 million from more than 500 investors in under a month on Wefunder. The campaign ranked #1 among July launches on Wefunder and #2 nationwide, according to Kingscrowd. The company is expanding capacity with a new mill in Pendleton, Oregon, in partnership with the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR).

• Meristem Crop Performance introduced a 0% financing option with Farm Growth Financial, available through December 2026. The program applies exclusively to Meristem products, with streamlined approvals and limits up to $500,000. Farmers must take delivery by December 20, 2025, to access the no-payment, no-interest offer. A 1.99% financing option is available for deliveries after the deadline, through the 2026 crop year.

• USDA Deputy Secretary Stephen Vaden signed a block grant with the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (NCDA&CS). The grant provides $221.2 million in federal assistance for recovery after Hurricane Helene. Funding will cover infrastructure, timber, market, and future year revenue losses. The support is part of a broader $30 billion disaster assistance program authorized by the American Relief Act, 2025.

• La Caisse commits AU$200 million alongside AU$50 million from CEFC to create Meldora.Gunn Agri Partners will manage the new platform focused on sustainable agriculture and carbon credits. Meldora’s first acquisition is a 15,000-hectare farm in Central Queensland.

• Rainforest Alliance has launched a new Regenerative Agriculture Standard to support farmers and ecosystems. Certified regenerative products will feature a distinct seal starting in early 2026. Coffee is the first crop to be certified, with cocoa, citrus, and tea to follow.

UPCOMING EVENTS

SPACE | September 16 – 18, 2025 | France

AgraME | October 6 – 7, 2025 | Dubai

Vertical Farming World Congress | Oct 7-9, 2025 | Amsterdam

Special Thanks to Our Directory Members

Established Plan:
SpectraGrow, LettUs Grow, Harvest Returns, Women in CEA, Harnois Greenhouses, Verde Compacto

Scale-Up Plan:
Sollum Technologies, Babylon Micro-Farms, Ounce of Hope Aquaponics, Grow-Tec, Microclimates

Not listed yet? Add your company to the directory and start getting noticed!

Good morning, growers,

This week’s digest features developments across AI crop tools, sustainability-focused inputs, and agtech infrastructure. Orchard Robotics raises $22 million to advance precision farming technologies, while CropX expands its platform through the acquisition of Acclym. NRGene Green reports field trial results showing clubroot immunity in canola, and Bushel Plus introduces modular concaves designed to improve harvest efficiency and reduce grain loss.

Public and private investment initiatives continue to grow. The Merced AgTech Alliance secures $9.2 million to develop a regional hub in California’s Central Valley, and UC ANR receives $15.1 million to build a statewide ag innovation network. Land O’Lakes launches a cooperative-led investment program, and Zone Agtech partners with FCC to expand technology adoption and international reach.

Additional updates include Redox Bio-Nutrients receiving biostimulant certification, AmplifiedAg launching vertical farming projects in correctional facilities, and a new partnership between SynTech and Stepan to support product development in crop protection and biologicals.

And, a warm welcome to our new iGrow Network members. We’re glad to have you on board and look forward to keeping you updated on the latest innovations, opportunities, and trends in AgTech. Not a member yet? Register now to join the network.

What We Are Covering Today:

1. AgTech Highlights: New Funding, New Partnership & More!

2. Plant Science Updates: New Initiative, Innovation & More!

3. AgriBusiness & CEA Updates: New Initiatives & More!

4. Other Updates: New Initiative, New Program & More!

5. Upcoming AgTech Events, Conferences & Webinars

Estimated Reading Time: 6 - 7 minutes

🎧 Prefer listening over reading?

Catch the full recap on this week’s AgTech Digest Podcast—available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite platform.

AGRITECH
AgTech Highlights: New Funding, New Partnership & More!

Orchard Robotics Raises $22M to Grow AI Farming Tools

• Orchard Robotics secured $22 million in Series A funding, bringing its total raised to over $25 million.

• The round was led by Quiet Capital and Shine Capital, with participation from General Catalyst and Contrary.

• The company develops AI-powered tools for precision crop management, currently used in apple and grape farms.

• Expansion is planned for other crops, including blueberries, cherries, and almonds.

• The new funding will support team expansion and the opening of a new office in San Francisco. Orchard Robotics aims to close the data gap in agriculture and advance AI-driven farming globally.

CropX Acquires Acclym to Boost ESG and Sustainability Data

• CropX Technologies acquired Acclym (formerly Agritask), marking its seventh strategic acquisition.

• The acquisition expands CropX’s capabilities into enterprise-level agricultural intelligence.

• Acclym brings 15 years of experience and technology deployed across millions of hectares. Its platform helps convert field-level data into actionable insights for sustainability and ESG goals.

• The integration aims to support global food and beverage companies in tracking ESG metrics, reducing supply chain risk, and promoting regenerative agriculture.

Merced AgTech Alliance Secures $9.2M for Central Valley Innovation

• The Merced AgTech Alliance has received $9.2 million from California Jobs First, the largest state investment in agtech to date.

• The initiative aims to create over 3,000 jobs, support more than 100 startups, and offer 250 internships in California’s Central Valley.

• Key projects include the Merced College AgTech Innovation Center (workforce development), the UC Merced AgTech Barn (research and skills training), and Reservoir Farms (startup incubation).

• The effort is a public-private partnership involving over 40 industry organizations.

• The goal is to position the Central Valley as a global center for agtech innovation and build economic resilience through modern food systems.

Land O’Lakes Launches AgTech Investment Program

• Land O’Lakes launched AgRogue Growth Partners, a cooperative-led initiative to support agtech startups.

• The program will invest up to $7 million per partner in 10 to 15 companies focused on crop inputs, ag data, and supply chain innovation.

• It aims to accelerate technology adoption by leveraging trusted relationships between co-ops and farmers.

• Radicle Growth will manage the program and support selected startups globally.

UC ANR to Build Statewide Ag Innovation Network

• UC ANR Innovate received $15.1 million from California Jobs First to create a statewide agricultural innovation network.

• The initiative will connect nine food-producing regions to promote technology adoption and entrepreneurship.

• It will include a central hub, startup support programs, and workforce development in areas such as robotics, automation, drones, and data science.

• Over five years, the network aims to support 200 agtech startups, train 1,500 individuals, and create over 2,000 jobs.

• Program implementation is expected to begin in late 2025.

Zone Agtech and FCC Partner to Support Quebec AgTech

• Zone Agtech and Farm Credit Canada (FCC) have entered a three-year strategic partnership to advance agtech in Quebec.

• The AgXis Acceleration Program will help Quebec-based producers and agri-food companies adopt new technologies and strengthen the local ecosystem.

• The Go Global: Quebec Scale-Up Program, co-developed with SVG Ventures | THRIVE, will support international expansion for high-growth agtech companies.

• SVG Ventures | THRIVE will also establish a satellite office within Zone Agtech to boost global connectivity for Quebec firms.

PLANT SCIENCE
Plant Science Updates: New Initiative, Innovation & More!

NRGene Green Reports Clubroot Immunity in Canola Trials

• NRGene Green announced field trial results showing complete immunity to clubroot in its canola donor lines.

• In 2025 trials, these lines recorded 0% infection under high pathogen pressure, compared to 74–85% infection in current industry-resistant varieties.

• The resistance trait was developed in Canada using AI-driven genomics and naturally occurring resistance genes, without genetic modification.

• The trait offers potential long-term value for the $43.7 billion global canola market.

• Resistant lines and associated markers are now available for global licensing to plant breeders.

Redox Bio-Nutrients’ Mainstay Calcium 2.0 Earns Biostimulant Certification

• Mainstay Calcium 2.0 by Redox Bio-Nutrients has received the TFI Certified Biostimulant label.

• The certification recognizes compliance with U.S. Biostimulant Industry Guidelines for efficacy, safety, and composition.

• It is intended to support product confidence among manufacturers, ag retailers, and growers.

• The certification encourages informed decision-making and supports adoption of sustainable agriculture practices.

Loveland Products Launches Concentrated Residue Management Input

• Loveland Products has introduced Extract® XC, a concentrated version of its existing Extract PBA product line.

• The new formulation requires half the application rate per acre compared to the original product.

• Extract XC is designed to improve residue breakdown, enhancing the release of nitrogen and sulfur from crop residues.

• The product aims to increase fertilizer efficiency and support yield potential.

• It can be applied with fall burndown or liquid fertilizers, reducing field passes and promoting nutrient cycling for soil health.

SynTech and Stepan Partner to Expand Formulation Services

• SynTech Research Group and Stepan Company have formed a strategic partnership focused on Stepan’s Advanced Formulation Services (AFS) in North America.

• The collaboration combines SynTech’s expertise in regulation, lab testing, and field research with Stepan’s formulation and scale-up capabilities.

• The joint platform will offer clients end-to-end development support for crop protection and biological products.

• The goal is to streamline product development from concept to commercialization and support innovation in sustainable agriculture.

• Both companies plan to promote the expanded services through industry events and digital outreach

AGRIBUSINESS AND CEA
AgriBusiness & CEA Updates: New Initiatives & More!

Bushel Plus Introduces O-Grate MAD Concaves to U.S. Market

• Bushel Plus has launched its O-Grate MAD Concaves in the United States, targeting improved harvest efficiency and reduced grain loss.

• The company cites outdated concave systems as a contributor to yield loss, cracked kernels, and poor threshing performance.

• The new system features O-shaped holes and staircase-style threshing bars for gentler grain separation and higher efficiency.

• A modular design enables farmers to swap inserts for different crops in 10–15 minutes, minimizing downtime.

• The concaves are compatible with major combine models from Case IH, John Deere, Fendt, and New Holland.

• According to the company, the technology supports better throughput, crop quality, and profitability.

AmplifiedAg Launches Vertical Farms in U.S. Correctional Facilities

• AmplifiedAg is expanding its controlled environment agriculture (CEA) initiatives into correctional facilities in South Carolina and California.

• The projects, developed in partnership with Impact Justice and Skout Strategy, aim to improve food access and provide job training for incarcerated individuals. The South Carolina Department of Corrections is preparing for the first vertical farm harvest within a U.S. prison, with an expected annual yield of 48,000 pounds of leafy greens.

• In California, vertical farm kits have been deployed at the Central California Women’s Facility, allowing participants to assemble and operate the systems.

• These initiatives align with AmplifiedAg’s broader mission to integrate food security and workforce development in underserved communities.

OTHER NEWS
Other Updates: New Initiative, New Program & More!

• UC Merced will use $3 million in state funding to build an agricultural technology barn at its Smart Farm.The barn will function as a research and development space within UC Merced’s Agriculture Experimentation Station. The funding is part of $80 million announced by Governor Gavin Newsom to support 11 projects across California. Nearly $29 million of the total is directed toward ag tech and farm equipment initiatives to strengthen workforce development and infrastructure.

• MyEasyFarm to provide the MRV (Measure, Report, Verify) platform for the Gaïago Carbon Program. The program is the world’s first Soil Organic Carbon Framework certified by Gold Standard. Nearly 50,000 hectares across Europe are already committed to carbon sequestration efforts.

• u-blox has extended its PointPerfect Flex (PPP-RTK) correction services into Argentina and Paraguay, building on existing coverage in Brazil. The service delivers centimeter-level positioning accuracy for agriculture, drones, surveying, and mapping, without the need for new base station infrastructure. PointPerfect Flex supports both SPARTN and RTCM formats, enabling compatibility with a wide range of GNSS receivers.

• Sabanto partnered with Yirsa Farms in Montana to deploy an autonomous seeding system for wheat. The farm repurposed existing mid-horsepower tractors and drills, retrofitting them with Sabanto’s autonomy technology. The system seeded 872 acres while achieving an average of $6.27 per acre, compared to $18.88/acre with traditional large machinery.

• National Geographic Society and PepsiCo announced a joint initiative called Food for Tomorrow. The program will highlight regenerative agriculture through science, storytelling, and education. National Geographic Explorers and scientists will lead projects supported by imagery, narratives, and applied research.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Global Vertical Farming Show 2025 | 10th – 11th September, 2025 | Dubai, UAE

SPACE | September 16 – 18, 2025 | France

AgraME | October 6 – 7, 2025 | Dubai

Vertical Farming World Congress | Oct 7-9, 2025 | Amsterdam

Special Thanks to Our Directory Members

Established Plan:
SpectraGrow, LettUs Grow, Harvest Returns, Women in CEA, Harnois Greenhouses, Verde Compacto

Scale-Up Plan:
Sollum Technologies, Babylon Micro-Farms, Ounce of Hope Aquaponics, Grow-Tec, Microclimates

Not listed yet? Add your company to the directory and start getting noticed!

Good morning, growers,

This week’s digest highlights momentum across autonomy, robotics, smart infrastructure, and sustainable agtech. Hylio’s Arthur Erickson shares how the company evolved from a dorm-room startup to a leader in ag drones. Monarch Tractor expands its AI-powered platform with a new CRO, while John Deere strengthens its autonomy portfolio with GUSS Automation. Solinftec unveils smarter robotics and 24/7 operation for the 2025 season.

We also cover key partnerships and platform expansions: Ecobloom and Aranet enhance indoor farming insights, Nature Fresh Farms and Revol Greens scale leafy green production, and The Reservoir partners with John Deere to launch a collaborative AgTech hub. Additional updates from LI-COR, CLAAS, Biotalys, BDC Capital, Amazon, and others showcase the industry's ongoing shift toward connected, data-driven, and ROI-focused solutions.

A warm welcome to our new iGrow Network members. We’re glad to have you on board and look forward to keeping you updated on the latest innovations, opportunities, and trends in AgTech. Not a member yet? Register now to join the network.

What We Are Covering Today:

1. AgTech & Precision agriculture Highlights: New Initiative, New Partnership & More!

2. Arthur Erickson on Hylio’s Path from Startup to Ag Drone Pioneer

3. Plant Science & Agribusiness Updates: New Initiative, Innovation & More!

4. CEA Updates: New Partnership, New Initiatives & More!

5. Other Updates: New Initiative, New Program & More!

6. Upcoming AgTech Events, Conferences & Webinars

Estimated Reading Time: 6 - 7 minutes

🎧 Prefer listening over reading?

Catch the full recap on this week’s AgTech Digest Podcast—available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite platform.

Don’t miss our next live session: From Idea to Field – How Startups Can Secure Successful Field Trials.

Danny Bernstein, CEO of The Reservoir, will share how California’s first on-farm incubator is helping AgTech startups validate their solutions in real-world conditions. Learn how to identify the right trial partners, avoid common pitfalls, and turn field data into investor-ready results.

Register now.

AGRITECH & PRECISION AGRICULTURE
AgTech & Precision agriculture Highlights: New Initiative, New Partnership & More!

Monarch Tractor Appoints CRO to Drive Autonomous Platform Growth

• Monarch Tractor has appointed Steve Peck as Chief Revenue Officer to lead sales and expansion.

• The MonarchOne platform enables OEMs to deploy scalable autonomy across ag, construction, and off-highway sectors.

• Features include embedded software, energy management, and real-time data intelligence.

• Monarch is collaborating with OEMs like Ag Growth International to advance connected, autonomous equipment adoption.

The Reservoir Opens On-Farm Innovation Hub in Salinas

• The Reservoir has launched its first AgTech innovation hub in Salinas, California.

• The hub offers startups access to growers, testing grounds, and pilot opportunities for specialty crops.

• Over 200 stakeholders attended the launch event.

• A strategic partnership with John Deere will provide residents access to equipment, technology, and pilot programs.

• The project aims to serve as an “Olympic Village of AgTech” for collaborative problem-solving.

CLAAS and Razor Tracking Partner for Integrated Fleet Management

• CLAAS has partnered with Razor Tracking to deliver joint fleet management solutions.

• Users can view assets and equipment in both Razor Tracking and CLAAS connect platforms.

• Data includes GPS, fuel levels, engine status, weather overlays, and equipment history.

• The integration supports more efficient logistics and cost-effective operations for growers.

John Deere Acquires GUSS Automation for High-Value Crop Autonomy

• John Deere has completed its acquisition of GUSS Automation, a maker of autonomous sprayers.

• GUSS systems reduce labor and material waste, with remote supervision and Smart Apply® integration.

• Over 250 GUSS units are in operation globally, covering 2.6 million acres and 500,000 autonomous hours.

• The acquisition strengthens Deere’s high-value crop and precision ag portfolio.

Solinftec Expands Solix Robots with Smarter Features and New States

• Solinftec is deploying Solix AG Robotics in Kansas, Iowa, Wisconsin, and Texas for 2025.

• New features include Discovery Mode, obstacle detection, and Starlink-enabled connectivity.

• Solix robots can reduce herbicide use by up to 95% and deliver real-time agronomic insights.

• A solar-powered autonomous Refill Station enables continuous, 24/7 field operation.

• Future concepts focus on better traction, structural performance, and operating speed.

INTERVIEW
Arthur Erickson on Hylio’s Path from Startup to Ag Drone Pioneer

• Originally focused on multi-purpose drones, Hylio pivoted to agriculture after seeing strong demand from farmers in Central America seeking practical solutions for small, uneven fields.

• Erickson credits FAA regulatory clarity since 2019 for unlocking growth in the U.S., where Hylio now conducts the vast majority of its business across key crop types like corn, soybeans, and cotton.

• Hylio’s software emphasizes ease-of-use, while its data policy ensures farmers retain full ownership of operational data—a model Erickson sees as vital to long-term trust.

• He warns that aggressive pricing by overseas competitors risks undercutting innovation, urging the industry to prioritize sustainable, value-driven progress.

• Looking to 2030, Erickson envisions Hylio as a leader in autonomous drones and AI-powered crop analytics, with potential applications beyond agriculture.

Read the complete interview here.

PLANT SCIENCE & AGRIBUSINESS
Plant Science & Agribusiness Updates: New Initiative, Innovation & More!

BDC Capital – Industrial Innovation Venture Fund II

• BDC Capital has launched a $200 million Industrial Innovation Venture Fund II.

• The fund supports Canadian startups in ag-tech, food-tech, and critical minerals.

• It aims to address productivity gaps and enhance Canada’s global competitiveness.

• The initiative builds on Fund I, which supported over 20 companies with measurable productivity gains.

• Fund II will target technologies including robotics, automation, applied AI, and industrial software.

Amazon and Arable – Mississippi Water Replenishment Project

• Amazon and Arable have launched a water replenishment project in Mississippi.

• The project aims to reduce agricultural water withdrawals by 150 million gallons annually.

• Arable Mark 3 sensors, powered by Amazon Web Services, provide real-time irrigation insights.

• The initiative complements Mississippi State University's Master Irrigator training program.

• It supports Amazon’s broader goal of becoming water-positive by 2030.

Biotalys – EVOCA™ Regulatory Update

• Biotalys received updated guidance from the U.S. EPA on its protein-based biocontrol product, EVOCA™.

• The EPA review is ongoing, with final steps expected in Q4 2025.

• This timeline is later than Biotalys’ previously anticipated September decision.

• EVOCA targets Botrytis and powdery mildew in fruits and vegetables.

• The product is designed for use in spray rotation programs, and Biotalys remains optimistic about approval.

Moa Technology and Gowan Company – Herbicide Innovation

• Moa Technology has discovered new weed control chemistries and amplifier molecules.

• The company is partnering with Gowan Company to develop sustainable herbicide solutions.

• These innovations aim to reduce herbicide usage by enhancing effectiveness.

• The first amplifier product tied to a specific active ingredient is under development.

• Field trials are being conducted in Australia and the UK to assess control of major grassweeds.

CEA
CEA Updates: New Partnership, New Initiatives & More!

Ecobloom and Aranet Partnership

• Ecobloom has partnered with Aranet to integrate environmental sensors into its EcoSense platform.

• The integration enables growers to connect existing Aranet infrastructure with Ecobloom’s monitoring system.

• The collaboration merges Aranet's sensor accuracy with Ecobloom’s AI-powered insights.

• The goal is to deliver actionable data and enhance decision-making in indoor farming.

• The partnership emphasizes the balance between human expertise and technology in agriculture.

Nature Fresh Farms and Revol Greens Collaboration

• Nature Fresh Farms and Revol Greens are launching organic and conventional packaged salads.

• The partnership combines Revol Greens’ controlled environment agriculture (CEA) expertise with Nature Fresh Farms' market reach.

• The companies are targeting growth in the CEA leafy greens segment.

• CEA is seen as a platform for innovation and added consumer value in leafy greens.

• Both partners expect greenhouse-grown leafy greens to become a mainstream market choice.

INNOFarms.AI and Veggitech MoU

• INNOFarms.AI and Veggitech have signed a strategic MoU to develop agtech solutions in the UAE and GCC.

• The collaboration focuses on creating SmartFarms using hydroponics and digital technologies.

• The initiative aims to support sustainable and intelligent agriculture practices in the Gulf region.

• The partnership reflects broader investment trends in technology-driven farming in the area.

LI-COR HOBO® Data Loggers Launch

• LI-COR has introduced two new HOBO® Data Loggers: the MX2308 and MX2309.

• MX2308 monitors temperature and relative humidity, while MX2309 measures solar radiation via a LI-COR pyranometer.

• Both models feature automated calculations and are designed for ease of deployment and data retrieval.

• The products target growers, researchers, and agtech professionals focused on precision environmental monitoring.

Ceres Greenhouse Solutions Project in Wisconsin

• Ceres Greenhouse Solutions has completed an aquaponic greenhouse for the Forest County Potawatomi tribe.

• The 30' x 78' HighYield Kit greenhouse can produce up to 75,000 leafy greens and 1,000 pounds of fish annually.

• The facility supports the Tribal Elder Food Box Program, serving 12 tribes across Wisconsin.

• It incorporates aquaponic systems from The Aquaponic Source™ and is built to endure harsh winter conditions..

OTHER NEWS
Other Updates: New Initiative, New Program & More!

• Heifer International concluded multi-year investments in Grass Roots Farmers’ Cooperative (GRFC) and Cypress Valley Meat Company (CVMC). CVMC expanded from three to six facilities, now serving nearly 3,000 farmers in 12 states. GRFC shifted to a direct-to-consumer e-commerce model, connecting farmers with customers nationwide.

• LeafWorks introduces DNA-based Ingredient Quantification Testing, beginning with mushroom blends.New assay helps brands verify ingredient composition in multi-species products with quantitative accuracy.Testing supports 21 CFR 111 regulatory compliance and reduces risk of costly recalls.

• Origin Agritech has begun full-scale seed processing at its Xinjiang production and processing facility for the 2025 season. The facility is fully automated, handling cleaning, drying, threshing, sorting, coating, and packaging. Xinjiang’s climate and solar resources provide an ideal environment for high-quality seed production.

• POET signed an agreement to acquire Green Plains Obion, a bioethanol facility in Tennessee. The acquisition increases the company’s annual bioethanol production capacity by 120 million gallons. With the addition, the company’s network expands to 35 bioprocessing facilities across nine U.S. states.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Commercial UAV Expo | September 2-4, 2025 | Las Vegas, USA

Taiwan Smart Agriweek | September 3-5, 2025 | Taiwan

Global Vertical Farming Show 2025 | 10th – 11th September, 2025 | Dubai, UAE

SPACE | September 16 – 18, 2025 | France

AgraME | October 6 – 7, 2025 | Dubai

Vertical Farming World Congress | Oct 7-9, 2025 | Amsterdam

Special Thanks to Our Directory Members

Established Plan:
SpectraGrow, LettUs Grow, Harvest Returns, Women in CEA, Harnois Greenhouses, Verde Compacto

Scale-Up Plan:
Sollum Technologies, Babylon Micro-Farms, Ounce of Hope Aquaponics, Grow-Tec, Microclimates

Not listed yet? Add your company to the directory and start getting noticed!

Good morning, growers,

This week’s update spans pollination, genetics, space farming, biopesticides, and CEA. PowerPollen has unveiled its AI-powered pollination fleet, while Singrow raised $4.5M to expand precision agriculture in Asia. NASA astronauts are testing space crops with the VEG-03 system, and Tidal Grow AgriScience gained California approval for its Spectra biopesticide.

We also look at new agtech initiatives: Reservoir’s partnership with John Deere, TGI’s $2M food security challenge, and NC State’s Seed2Grow graduation. NEC and ClimateAi have introduced an AI model to measure climate adaptation ROI, Rimaco Greens is piloting a pressurized greenhouse in Alberta, and Zhejiang Smart Agriculture Park is demonstrating fully automated, pesticide-free vegetable production. Finally, Hort Americas’ Chris Higgins calls for pragmatic, ROI-driven innovation in CEA.

A warm welcome to our new iGrow Network members. We’re glad to have you on board and look forward to keeping you updated on the latest innovations, opportunities, and trends in AgTech. Not a member yet? Register now to join the network.

What We Are Covering Today:

1. AgTech Highlights: New Funding, Initiative & More!

2. Plant Science Updates: New Investment, Initiative & More!

3. Plant Science Updates: New Initiative, Funding & More!

4. CEA Updates: New Initiatives & More!

5. Other Updates: New Initiative, New Program & More!

6. Upcoming AgTech Events, Conferences & Webinars

Estimated Reading Time: 6 - 7 minutes

🎧 Prefer listening over reading?

Catch the full recap on this week’s AgTech Digest Podcast—available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite platform.

AGRITECH
AgTech Highlights: New Funding, Initiative & More!

Reservoir partners with John Deere to advance crop innovation

• Reservoir, a California-based agtech incubator, has announced a partnership with John Deere focused on high-value crops.

• The collaboration will offer branding and field-testing opportunities to startups while combining Deere’s automation expertise with Reservoir’s grower network.

• As part of Deere’s broader investment in U.S. agtech and sustainability, the partnership seeks to enhance efficiency, strengthen labor resilience, and promote long-term sustainability in agriculture.

Kelly Hills Unveils SpraySense and Launches Rural Autonomous Mobility Program

• Kelly Hills introduced SpraySense, an AI-driven recommendation and application system developed through its accelerator program, The Forge.

• SpraySense combines aerial imagery, agronomy, and autonomous spraying to guide fungicide application and future input management.

• At the same event, Kelly Hills announced the Rural Autonomous Mobility Program (RAMP), enabling autonomous farm equipment on public roads in Kansas.

TGI launches $2M Geospatial Innovation for Food Security Challenge

• The Taylor Geospatial Institute has introduced the Geospatial Innovation for Food Security Challenge, committing up to $2 million in funding.

• The program encourages collaboration among academia, industry, and non-profits to address agricultural and food system challenges.

• Priority focus areas include advanced crop modeling, nitrogen efficiency tools, and supply chain resilience.

• Applications are open through October 31, 2025.

NC Plant Sciences Initiative celebrates Seed2Grow’s first graduation

• The Seed2Grow program at North Carolina State University has marked its first graduation with Hoofprint Biome, a startup developing methane-reducing cattle feed, which raised $15 million to scale operations.

• Seed2Grow has expanded to eight startups, offering lab access in the Plant Sciences Building, mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs, and support for business development.

• Backed by Bayer Crop Science, the program will open incubator space to startups beyond NC State ties while continuing to build entrepreneurial capacity within the university.

• With Seed2Grow’s first graduation and continued growth, the initiative highlights North Carolina’s emerging role in agtech innovation.

NEC and ClimateAi develop AI model for climate adaptation ROI

• NEC Corporation and ClimateAi have co-developed an AI model designed to measure the effectiveness of climate change adaptation measures in cocoa and rice production.

• The model quantifies the return on investment for measures such as irrigation, changing crop varieties, and adjusting planting times.

• By providing ROI analysis, the tool is intended to help international organizations, development banks, and private investors finance climate resilience initiatives.

• Findings from the project will be presented at TICAD 9 in Japan in August 2025.

INTERVIEW
Chris Higgins on the State of CEA:
Pragmatism Over Hype

• Chris Higgins, President of Hort Americas, reflects that controlled environment agriculture has advanced steadily but not experienced the sweeping technological revolution once anticipated.

• He notes that market consolidation in North America has narrowed opportunities for innovation, as greenhouse operations become fewer and increasingly dominated by Canadian and Mexican growers.

• Higgins also raises concerns about the sustainability of current agtech funding models, pointing out that agriculture’s long-term, low-margin realities require financial products better suited to the industry.

• Farmers, he argues, are looking for incremental innovations that deliver measurable returns on investment rather than flashy technologies without economic grounding.

• The broader conversation highlights the growing importance of brand building, supply chain strategy, and technical expertise in shaping the future of greenhouse and indoor farming.

Read the complete interview here.

PLANT SCIENCE
Plant Science Updates: New Initiative, Funding & More!

PowerPollen rolls out AI-powered pollination fleet

• PowerPollen has launched an autonomous fleet designed to deliver precision pollen application in commercial corn fields.

• The system relies on AI and machine vision to optimize pollen distribution, with claims of boosting yields by up to two times.

• By reducing the need for seasonal labor, the technology aims to make pollination more efficient and scalable.

• The new fleet is integrated into PowerPollen’s broader platform, supporting efforts to advance precision agriculture globally.

Singrow secures $4.5M to accelerate expansion

• Singrow, a Singapore-based company specializing in plant genomics and precision agriculture, has raised $4.5 million in Series A funding.

• The investment will help expand its core focus areas, which include seedlings, vertical farming, and reverse genetics breeding.

• With this funding, the company plans to move beyond Singapore and China into Southeast Asia and other international markets.

• Singrow has also introduced climate-resilient strawberries and developed new technology for saffron production.

Tidal Grow AgriScience gains California approval for biopesticide

• Tidal Grow AgriScience has received state approval to market its Spectra biopesticide in California.

• The product is formulated for crops such as tree nuts, citrus, and grapes, where it targets pests and diseases.

• Spectra functions as a fungicide, bactericide, and nematicide while also strengthening plant resilience.

• The approval expands grower access to sustainable, chitosan-based technologies that can be used alongside conventional crop protection programs.

Pivot Bio Partners with Soil and Water Outcomes Fund to Expand Sustainable Nitrogen Management

• Pivot Bio has partnered with the Soil and Water Outcomes Fund (SWOF) to support farmers in Indiana and Illinois.

• Farmers can use Pivot Bio’s PROVEN® 40 and PROVEN® G3 corn products while participating in SWOF’s outcomes-based conservation program.

• The collaboration aims to reduce synthetic fertilizer use, greenhouse gas emissions, and nitrogen runoff.

Monsanto moves toward settlement of PCB-related claims

• Monsanto has reached agreements in principle to settle more than 200 claims connected to the Sky Valley Education Center in Washington state.

• The settlements are confidential and remain subject to final approval by all parties involved.

• The company continues to pursue a multi-pronged litigation strategy aimed at managing risks through 2026.

• Monsanto has stated that the financial impact of the agreements will be covered by its existing PCB litigation provisions.

CEA
CEA Updates: New Initiatives & More!

NASA astronauts test space farming with VEG-03 system

• Crew-11 astronauts have begun experiments with NASA’s VEG-03 system, which combines LED lighting and a clay-based growing medium.

• The project allows astronauts to select crops from a “seed library,” offering both nutritional and psychological benefits during long missions.

• Harvested crops will be consumed in space, while samples are returned to Earth for further analysis.

• The research aims to validate crop varieties, diversify astronaut diets, and generate insights that may also benefit agriculture on Earth.

Rimaco Greens debuts pressurized greenhouse system in Canada

• Canadian AgTech firm Rimaco Greens has introduced a patent-pending pressurized greenhouse designed to cut energy use and boost sustainability.

• The system integrates thermal energy storage with coordinated air and water flows to maintain precise climate control.

• A pilot site in Alberta will host the first commercial demonstration of the technology.

• The company is now seeking strategic grower-investors to help scale adoption and validate both operational and economic performance.

AI-powered farm in Zhejiang grows pesticide-free vegetables

• The Zhejiang Smart Agriculture Park in Deqing County uses AI and IoT to automate the production of pesticide-free vegetables.

• Automated systems manage tasks such as transplanting, transportation, cleaning, and greenhouse oversight without human labor.

• One highlight is an auto-transplanting machine capable of planting 30 seedlings in just 40 seconds.

• The initiative is positioned to reduce labor needs, improve efficiency, and deliver safer vegetables to major retailers while modeling future food production practices.

OTHER NEWS
Other Updates: New Initiative, New Program & More!

• Forager Project introduces The Cashew Project, a multi-year program to support cashew farmers in Côte d’Ivoire. Initiative includes training in organic certification, financial literacy, and climate-smart agriculture. Program seeks to empower women in farming, with more than 1,000 women already participating.

• GrubMarket introduces AI-powered Multi-Format Document Processor in its AI Orders system. New feature automates ingestion and processing of PDFs, Excel files, and CSVs. Designed to reduce manual data entry, human error, and operational inefficiencies. Integrates seamlessly with leading ERP and accounting systems.

• Halter, BLM, and the Foundation for America’s Public Lands launch a $2.7 million program to support ranchers using virtual fencing. The initiative aims to improve grazing efficiency, land stewardship, and flexibility in ranch management. Halter’s technology uses solar-powered collars, sound, and vibration to guide cattle without physical fences. Cotoni-Coast Dairies in California will be the first site to implement the program.

• Bion’s Liquid AB fertilizer demonstrates strong growth performance across cannabis, tomato, and sorghum trials. OMRI Listed ammonium bicarbonate fertilizer provides immediate nitrogen availability for organic crops. Trials indicate potential for higher yields and profitability in the organic agriculture sector.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Commercial UAV Expo | September 2-4, 2025 | Las Vegas, USA

Taiwan Smart Agriweek | September 3-5, 2025 | Taiwan

Global Vertical Farming Show 2025 | 10th – 11th September, 2025 | Dubai, UAE

SPACE | September 16 – 18, 2025 | France

AgraME | October 6 – 7, 2025 | Dubai

Vertical Farming World Congress | Oct 7-9, 2025 | Amsterdam

Special Thanks to Our Directory Members

Established Plan:
SpectraGrow, LettUs Grow, Harvest Returns, Women in CEA, Harnois Greenhouses, Verde Compacto

Scale-Up Plan:
Sollum Technologies, Babylon Micro-Farms, Ounce of Hope Aquaponics, Grow-Tec, Microclimates

Not listed yet? Add your company to the directory and start getting noticed!

Good morning, growers,

This week’s update covers developments across plant science, controlled environment agriculture (CEA), and AgTech. Artechno, Philips Horticulture, and Limgroup are collaborating on year-round strawberry propagation; BASF, Corteva, and M.S. Technologies are progressing nematode-resistant soybean traits; and LeafWorks is expanding its botanical DNA testing capabilities.

In CEA, EBZ Group has acquired a stake in Organifarms, Ecobloom and GreenLife have partnered to bring AI-powered farming to Kuwait, and PB tec has added CE-Line’s nutrient monitoring technology to its portfolio. In AgTech, Orbia Netafim has introduced the Mega-PULSAR™ sprinkler, Saga Robotics is expanding its Thorvald platform, BinSentry has secured $50M in funding for feed monitoring solutions, and AgEagle has launched the RedEdge-P Green camera.

A warm welcome to our new iGrow Network members. We’re glad to have you on board and look forward to keeping you updated on the latest innovations, opportunities, and trends in AgTech. Not a member yet? Register now to join the network.

What We Are Covering Today:

1. AgTech Highlights: New Funding, Initiative & More!

2. Plant Science Updates: New Investment, Initiative & More!

3. Plant Science Updates: New Investment, Initiative & More!

4. CEA Updates: New Partnership, Acquisition & More!

5. Other Updates: New Initiative, Funding Round & More!

6. Upcoming AgTech Events, Conferences & Webinars

Estimated Reading Time: 6 - 7 minutes

🎧 Prefer listening over reading?

Catch the full recap on this week’s AgTech Digest Podcast—available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite platform.

MEET & GREET
Join Our Upcoming Meet & Greet

Ready to meet amazing people in our community and spark new partnerships?

Join us for a relaxed and energizing Meet & Greet designed to help you connect, collaborate, and discover opportunities together.

What to Expect:

• Light networking in small breakout groups

• Guided questions to spark meaningful conversations

• Discover potential collaborators, partners, and creative allies

Who it’s for:

Anyone in our community who's open to partnerships,
collaborations, or simply meeting inspiring people.

AGRITECH
AgTech Highlights: New Funding, Initiative & More!

Orbia Netafim debuts Mega-PULSAR™ sprinkler

• Orbia Netafim has launched Mega-PULSAR™ sprinkler technology to protect orchards from heatwaves.

• Designed for high-value subtropical crops like avocado, mango, and lychee.

• Distributes uniform pulses of low-volume water throughout the canopy to reduce temperature and raise humidity.

• Modular, wide-spacing system reduces water use, labor, and maintenance costs.

• Early field installations show improved humidity and temperature control.

Saga Robotics raises £8.4M for Thorvald expansion

• Saga Robotics has secured £8.4 million in equity capital to expand deployment of its Thorvald autonomous platform for grapevine and strawberry production.

• Funding round led by Praesidium Agri-FoodTech, Aker, and Nysnø Climate Investments.

• Capital will accelerate rollout in the UK, where Thorvald supports 13 major strawberry growers.

• Platform also operates on more than 1,300 acres of vineyards in the US.

BinSentry secures $50M Series C

• BinSentry, specializing in AI-powered sensors for the animal feed supply chain, has raised $50 million in Series C funding led by Lead Edge Capital.

• Funding will support global expansion after doubling revenue in the past year.

• Maintained a 0% customer churn rate during this period.

• Solar-powered sensors provide real-time monitoring of on-farm feed levels with 99% accuracy.

• Technology replaces manual inventory checks and helps prevent feed outages.

AgEagle launches RedEdge-P Green camera

• AgEagle Aerial Systems has released the RedEdge-P Green multispectral camera to improve agricultural productivity.

• Provides high-resolution, data-rich imaging for agronomists, researchers, and environmental managers.

• Enables data-driven decisions to enhance yields, reduce costs, and conserve natural resources. NDAA-compliant and compatible with multiple drone platforms.

• Ready for immediate adoption by growers, researchers, and environmental agencies.

INTERVIEW
Artechno, Philips Horticulture, and Limgroup have partnered to develop a year-round indoor propagation model for F1 hybrid strawberry plants

• Artechno, Philips Horticulture, and Limgroup have partnered to develop a year-round, indoor propagation model for F1 hybrid strawberry plants.

• The AVF+ system enables controllable, clean, uniform, and accelerated strawberry propagation with flexible configurations.

• Limore One, Limgroup’s F1 hybrid strawberry variety, offers stable yield, uniformity, and is suited for protected cultivation.

• Signify’s Philips GrowWise lighting system provides phase-specific light recipes to improve crop performance and quality.

• The partnership supports breeders, propagators, growers, and retailers in addressing demand for consistent, high-quality strawberry varieties.

Read the complete interview here.

PLANT SCIENCE
Plant Science Updates: New Investment, Initiative & More!

Nematode-resistant soybeans in Brazil

• BASF, Corteva Agriscience, and M.S. Technologies are introducing a nematode-resistant soybean trait in Brazil.

• Targets root lesion and soybean cyst nematodes.

• Trials show over 90% control of root lesion nematodes.

• Commercial launch expected late this decade or early next, pending approval.

• Anticipated to benefit South American farmers.

New nutrient planning tools from FarmQA

• FarmQA has launched two new tools to streamline nutrient planning: Advanced Prescriptions and Nutrient Blender.

• Advanced Prescriptions delivers batch, formula-based variable rate recommendations for greater precision.

• Nutrient Blender offers quick, flat-rate fertility planning based on soil data and yield goals.

• Both tools are designed to improve accuracy and reduce the time agronomists spend on data processing.

LeafWorks broadens botanical ID services

• LeafWorks has expanded its DNA-based botanical identification services to include the top 75 herbs and fungi in natural products.

• The expanded offering includes adulteration detection for complex formulations and blended products.

• Services include Botanical DNA ID and Adulteration DNA ID testing, validated against a global genomic library.

• This ensures accuracy and compliance with regulatory standards.

• The services are available for dietary supplements, foods, cosmetics, and other natural products.

Proterra Investment Partners & AcreTrader

• Proterra has acquired AcreTrader to extend its farmland investment reach and support the growth of Acres.com.

• AcreTrader’s team will join Proterra, while Acres.com will remain independent under founder Carter Malloy.

• AcreTrader focuses on private equity and credit investments in the global food value chain.

• The acquisition aligns with Proterra’s broader strategic growth plans.

• The company intends to maintain transparency and investor access while expanding its offerings.

CEA
CEA Updates: New Partnership, Acquisition & More!

EBZ Group buys majority stake in Organifarms

• EBZ Group has acquired a majority stake in AgTech startup Organifarms, marking its entry into sustainable and automated agricultural technologies.

• Co-founders Dominik Feiden and Hannah Brown will leave the company.

• A new leadership team will combine Organifarms’ agricultural expertise with EBZ’s automation capabilities.

• The partnership aims to scale the technology into new sectors and achieve market readiness.

• Integration will maintain the company’s culture and continue ongoing projects.

AI-driven farming partnership in Kuwait

• Ecobloom and Kuwait-based GreenLife have partnered to deploy AI-driven farming.

• Ecobloom’s EcoSense system provides real-time environmental and crop data, predictive alerts, and AI-powered insights.

• GreenLife’s facility uses a CleanGreens aeroponic system for water efficiency and optimal root health.

• The partnership aims to improve efficiency, consistency, and sustainability in desert farming.

PB tec acquires CE-Line assets

• PB tec, part of Atrium Agri, has acquired all assets of CE-Line following its bankruptcy in July 2025.

• The deal includes intellectual property, patents, inventory, stock, work in progress, and goodwill.

• CE-Line developed a capillary electrophoresis system for real-time nutrient measurement in irrigation water.

• The acquisition secures CE-Line’s expertise in real-time water analysis for greenhouse horticulture.

• PB tec plans to integrate and expand these capabilities within its product portfolio.

OTHER NEWS
Other Updates: New Initiative, Acquisition & More!

• MBOLD and AURI launch Protein Navigator. Protein Navigator aims to assist companies working in plant-based and animal protein sectors. Program offers insights, strategic connections, and personalized guidance. Initiative positions Minnesota as a hub for scalable protein innovation.

• Neogen® Corporation enters arrangement with enzyme design company Biomatter. Collaboration will leverage Biomatter’s Intelligent Architecture™ platform and Neogen’s analytical expertise. Goal is to create advanced enzyme-based products for food safety applications.

• Plantible Foods opens first commercial facility in Eldorado, Texas. Facility, called the Ranchito, will produce Rubi Protein™ from lemna at commercial scale. Expansion includes upgraded filtration systems and a higher-yield plant strain. Project expected to cut nearly 8,000 metric tons of CO₂-equivalent emissions annually. Partnerships, including with ICL, aim to integrate Rubi Protein into consumer products.

• Betagro Ventures joins an ~$18.4 million Series B funding round for U.S.-based animal health company BiomEdit. Proceeds will advance BE-101 (“Optavant™”), designed to help prevent necrotic enteritis in broiler chickens. Necrotic enteritis is estimated to cause $6 billion in global poultry losses each year. BE-101 is a non-antibiotic probiotic vectored antibody product, with commercial launch planned for 2026.

• Ambient Carbon’s Methane Eradication Photochemical System (MEPS) removed up to 90% of methane from dairy barn ventilation air. Large-scale trial conducted at Hofmansgave Foundation farm in Denmark, processing emissions from a 250-cow barn. Technology targets dilute methane concentrations below 1000 ppm, common in livestock housing. MEPS also removes ammonia, reduces odors, and generates fertilizer as a by-product.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Commercial UAV Expo | September 2-4, 2025 | Las Vegas, USA

Taiwan Smart Agriweek | September 3-5, 2025 | Taiwan

Global Vertical Farming Show 2025 | 10th – 11th September, 2025 | Dubai, UAE

SPACE | September 16 – 18, 2025 | France

AgraME | October 6 – 7, 2025 | Dubai

Vertical Farming World Congress | Oct 7-9, 2025 | Amsterdam

Special Thanks to Our Directory Members

Established Plan:
SpectraGrow, LettUs Grow, Harvest Returns, Women in CEA, Harnois Greenhouses, Verde Compacto

Scale-Up Plan:
Sollum Technologies, Babylon Micro-Farms, Ounce of Hope Aquaponics, Grow-Tec, Microclimates

Not listed yet? Add your company to the directory and start getting noticed!

Good Morning Growers,
This week’s edition highlights key developments across AgTech, plant science, and controlled environment agriculture. From new funding rounds and strategic initiatives to high-tech breeding methods and regulatory enforcement, the sector continues to evolve toward smarter, more sustainable solutions. Local Bounti, Cropin Technology, and MAVRK Capital lead in financing and operational growth, while Dole refocuses its core business. In plant science, advances in non-GMO soybeans, true potato seeds, and cacao gene editing signal a push for innovation and resilience. Meanwhile, Village Farms, AeroFarms, and CEA Advisors expand their CEA footprints—underscoring momentum across indoor and controlled environment systems.

And a warm welcome to all our new members! We’re thrilled to have you in the iGrow Network and look forward to sharing the latest innovations, opportunities, and updates in AgTech with you. Instant access here!

What We Are Covering Today:

1. AgTech & Agribusiness’ Highlights: New Funding, Initiative & More!

2. Plant Science Updates: New Initiative, Expansion & More!

3. CEA Updates: New Expansion, Funding & More!

4. Other Updates: New Initiative, Funding Round & More!

5. Upcoming AgTech Events, Conferences & Webinars

Estimated Reading Time: 6 - 7 minutes

🎧 Prefer listening over reading?

Catch the full recap on this week’s AgTech Digest Podcast—available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite

AGRITECH & AGRIBUSINESS
AgTech & Agribusiness’ Highlights: New Funding, Initiative & More!

Local Bounti Secures $10M Convertible Note Financing

• Local Bounti Corporation raised $10 million through a convertible note with an existing investor.

• The note carries a 6.0% annual interest rate and matures in five years.

• Includes a warrant to purchase up to 550,000 shares at $0.125 per share.

• The financing reduces the company’s principal debt and supports operational growth.

Cropin Technology Wins €700K EIT Food Contract

• Cropin Technology secured a €700,000 contract from EIT Food to deploy its FIRST Potato AI initiative.

• The initiative promotes regenerative potato farming with data-driven, farm-level decision support.

• Cropin’s platform uses real-time data and predictive analytics for irrigation, input use, and residue management.

• Pilot programs will launch in Denmark, Germany, and the UK, with expansion talks underway.

Dole Sells Fresh Vegetables Division for $140M

• Dole plc sold its Fresh Vegetables Division to Arable Capital’s og Holdco LLC for $140 million.

• The deal includes $90 million in cash, a $50 million seller note, and a $10 million earn-out potential.

• The division covers lettuce, broccoli, celery, and salad kits, employing over 3,000 workers.

• Dole retains facilities in Huron, CA, and Yuma, AZ, as part of a broader streamlining strategy.

MAVRK Capital Announces First Close of Second Fund

• MAVRK Capital closed the first round of its second fund focused on produce-related receivables.

• Targets growers, distributors, and retailers across the U.S., Latin America, and South America.

• Valley Strong Ventures is the anchor investor, with several hundred million committed.

• The fund aims to bridge institutional capital with global food production needs.

Rantizo Rebrands as American Autonomy, Shifts to Software

• Rantizo sold its drone spraying operations to an AgTech investment group.

• The company has rebranded as American Autonomy, Inc., focusing on software development.

• Its AcreConnect™ platform will remain central, supporting spray drone operator management.

• The shift marks a strategic focus on digital tools in aerial agriculture.

PLANT SCIENCE
Plant Science Updates: New Initiative, Expansion & More!

Protein Industries Canada Launches Soybean Initiative

• A $3 million initiative from Protein Industries Canada will support a $4.3 million project to strengthen the non-GMO soybean sector.

• Led by NRGene Canada, Pulse Genetics, Hensall Co-op, and Yumasoy Foods Ltd., the project targets early-maturing, high-protein soybean varieties for northern climates.

• Includes development of a new whole-soy plant-based protein product for domestic and export markets.

• Aligns with Canada’s "Road to $25 Billion" strategy to boost the plant-based food sector.

Solynta Promotes True Potato Seeds (TPS)

• Solynta’s hybrid breeding approach replaces traditional seed tubers with true potato seeds (TPS), enabling more efficient and scalable potato farming.

• The non-GMO model supports reduced crop losses and pesticide use, with trials underway in Kenya, Canada, and East Africa.

• Public release of its diploid potato genome supports open innovation.

• By 2030, Solynta aims for TPS to become a global standard in the potato supply chain.

Mars and Pairwise Partner on Gene-Edited Cacao

• Mars has partnered with Pairwise to apply its Fulcrum® gene editing platform to cacao crop development.

• The collaboration includes access to CRISPR tools like the SHARC™ enzyme to improve cacao resilience.

• Objectives include enhancing resistance to climate stress, disease, and environmental challenges threatening global cacao supply chains.

Bloom Fresh Expands IP Enforcement on Table Grapes

• Bloom Fresh is intensifying intellectual property enforcement ahead of peak table grape season.

• The company protects premium grape varieties such as SWEET GLOBE, COTTON CANDY, and ALLISON.

• Enforcement includes customs programs, DNA testing, and collaboration with Breeders Alliance.

• Stakeholders are encouraged to report unauthorized produce to protect quality and grower interests.

CEA
CEA Updates: New Expansion, Funding & More!

Village Farms International Cannabis Expansion

• Village Farms International will expand cannabis production by converting part of its Delta 2 greenhouse in British Columbia.

• The CAD $10 million project will add 40 metric tonnes of annual production capacity by Q1 2027.

• Expansion will be funded from existing cash and supports the company's scale-up strategy for global markets.

CEA Advisors Deploys Growtainer® Lab

• CEA Advisors delivered a Tissue Culture Micropropagation Growtainer® Lab to Nash Nurseries in Michigan.

• The modular lab enables scalable, sterile plant propagation in controlled environments using insulated shipping containers.

• Suitable for diverse sectors including horticulture, agriculture, and botanical research.

AeroFarms Secures New Financing

• AeroFarms refinanced its debt and secured additional equity funding to support operations and expansion.

• Funds will sustain the Danville, VA facility and cover pre-construction for a planned second vertical farm.

• The financing package includes contributions from existing investors and a new loan facility.

Hort Americas & Avé Organics Launch Organic Fertilizer

• OAN 10‑0‑0®, a new liquid organic nitrogen fertilizer, has been launched for North American growers.

• The product is OMRI-approved, pathogen-free, LGMA compliant, and provides a 50/50 nitrate-ammonium nitrogen blend.

• Packaged in 270-gallon totes, it's aimed at organic and hydroponic growers seeking sustainable crop nutrition solutions.

OTHER NEWS
Other Updates: New Initiative, Acquisition & More!

• AgVault introduces integrated fermentation technology to enhance ethanol plant profitability. New system enables production of high-grade yeast for animal feed markets. 35% ROI reported from co-located facilities producing 16,000 tons annually. Precision fermentation process improves efficiency, lowers production costs.

• Iris Nevins, a software engineering leader, has acquired Agricruit, shifting her focus from tech to agriculture recruitment. The firm was founded in 2020 by Kale Klendworth and has built national recognition in ag staffing. Agricruit operates Agtalent, a proprietary job board, and an internal applicant tracking system.

• AgLaunch officially opens the application window for its 2026 AgLaunch365 Accelerator, with a final deadline of September 15, 2025. The program embeds startups directly into field operations with a national farmer network for real-world validation. Accepted startups receive $100K in investment, on-farm trials, data access, and support from ag sector partners.

• SatSure Analytics India Pvt. Ltd. enters strategic partnership with Kenya’s KALRO. Collaboration aims to improve agricultural productivity through satellite-based analytics. Focus areas include crop monitoring, yield forecasting, and climate resilience.

• Lightstar Renewables announces the Plains Road Agrivoltaics project in Montgomery, NY. Project integrates solar energy generation with continued agricultural use. DiMartino Farm to maintain hay production while adding new vegetable acreage. Expected to power 466 homes annually while supporting long-term farm viability.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Commercial UAV Expo | September 2-4, 2025 | Las Vegas, USA

Taiwan Smart Agriweek | September 3-5, 2025 | Taiwan

Global Vertical Farming Show 2025 | 10th – 11th September, 2025 | Dubai, UAE

SPACE | September 16 – 18, 2025 | France

AgraME | October 6 – 7, 2025 | Dubai

Vertical Farming World Congress | Oct 7-9, 2025 | Amsterdam

Special Thanks to Our Directory Members

Established Plan:
SpectraGrow, LettUs Grow, Harvest Returns, Women in CEA, Harnois Greenhouses, Verde Compacto

Scale-Up Plan:
Sollum Technologies, Babylon Micro-Farms, Ounce of Hope Aquaponics, Grow-Tec, Microclimates

Not listed yet? Add your company to the directory and start getting noticed!

Good Morning Growers,
This week’s edition features key moves in agtech, plant science, and controlled environment agriculture. Vertical Future, Sollum Technologies, and AeroFarms push forward in CEA, while Pacific Plant Nutrients introduces its organic biostimulant, Mineral Max AG. In plant science, Bayer and Ambienta advance weed control and sustainable inputs. On the tech front, Growers Edge, DTN, and John Deere roll out tools to optimize farm operations, finance, and diagnostics—reflecting a clear trend toward scalable, climate-smart ag solutions.

A big thank you to Chris Rawley for joining us as our guest in the iGrow Network’s first Live Interview Session, "What Makes a Startup Fundable in AgTech?" 
His insights made it an incredibly valuable discussion. Thanks as well to everyone who tuned in and participated, what an amazing session it was!
And a warm welcome to all our new members! We’re thrilled to have you in the iGrow Network and look forward to sharing the latest innovations, opportunities, and updates in AgTech with you. Instant access here!

What We Are Covering Today:

1. AgTech’s Highlights: New Acquisition, New Initiative, & More!

2. Inside Mineral Max AG: A Q&A with Paul Gaylon, COO of Pacific Plant Nutrients

3. Plant Science & Agribusiness Updates: New Initiative, Funding Round & More!

4. CEA Updates: New Expansion, Partnership & More!

5. Other Updates: New Initiative, Funding Round & More!

6. Upcoming AgTech Events, Conferences & Webinars

Estimated Reading Time: 6 - 7 minutes

🎧 Prefer listening over reading?

Catch the full recap on this week’s AgTech Digest Podcast—available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite

AGRITECH
AgTech’s Highlights: New Acquisition, New Initiative, & More!

Growers Edge Acquires FarmTest Platform

• Growers Edge acquired FarmTest, a platform for automated field performance testing.

• Enhances field-level data validation and integration with Crop Plan Warranty.

• Follows Growers Edge’s acquisition of Agcor; part of its ag fintech ecosystem vision.

• Aims to improve profitability and risk management for farmers.

Lindsay Corporation Introduces TowerWatch™

• Lindsay Corporation launched TowerWatch™, a tower alignment monitor for Zimmatic™ pivots.

• Integrated with FieldNET™ Premier, it reduces troubleshooting time by up to 75%.

• Allows remote detection of faults, saving water, energy, and labor costs.

• Available on new pivots and as a retrofit for existing systems.

Hesai Technology Teams Up with Agtonomy and Alpha Werke

• Hesai Technology partnered with Agtonomy and Alpha Werke to develop autonomous farm robots.

• Uses JT series 3D lidar sensors for real-time perception in tasks like weeding, spraying, and hauling.

• Designed to tackle labor shortages, cost pressures, and climate challenges.

• Sensors are compact, weather-resistant, and built for precision agriculture.

DTN Unveils Operational Decisioning Platform

• DTN launched the Operational Decisioning Platform, integrating AI, sector data, and real-time insights.

• Supports agriculture, fuel logistics, and other weather-sensitive industries.

• Designed to improve margin protection, risk reduction, and operational resilience.

• Targets leadership teams needing fast, confident decisions in volatile markets.

John Deere Launches Operations Center™ PRO Service

• John Deere unveiled Operations Center™ PRO Service, a digital support tool for machine maintenance.

• Replaces Customer Service ADVISOR, adding features like remote diagnostics and software updates.

• Priced at $195 per machine annually for US and Canadian markets.

• Provides secure, machine-specific access for owners and third-party technicians.

INTERVIEW
Inside Mineral Max AG: A Q&A with Paul Gaylon, COO of Pacific Plant Nutrients

Mineral Max AG is an organic biostimulant made from blue-green algae, humates, Azomite, kelp, and coconut shell carbon.

• Mineral Max AG is a certified organic biostimulant crafted from natural ingredients such as Klamath Lake blue-green algae, humates, Azomite, Icelandic kelp, and coconut shell carbon. The product is designed to support regenerative agriculture by enhancing microbial activity, nutrient cycling, and water retention in the rhizosphere.

• “These five ingredients were selected for their synergy and shared geological history,” said Paul Gaylon, COO of Pacific Plant Nutrients. “They function cooperatively to enhance microbial activity and nutrient cycling in the rhizosphere.”

• Backed by over 60 field trials, early applications have shown promising results in crop flavor, growth, and resilience, even with minimal use.

• Currently certified in Oregon, the company is working through multi-state organic approvals and exploring international opportunities.

• While not a fertilizer, the formulation aligns with USDA and AAPFCO guidelines, and aims to serve as a biological tool that complements natural soil systems. “We’re open to research partnerships and field collaborations,” he added, pointing to growing interest from farmers, educators, and international contacts.

PLANT SCIENCE & AGRIBUSINESS
Plant Science & Agribusiness Updates: New Initiative, Funding Round & More!

Mars Launches Protect the Peanut Plan

• Mars, Inc. announced a $5 million plan to protect the peanut supply from climate risks and disease.

• Focus on developing drought-, pest-, and disease-resistant peanut strains.

• Builds on $10 million in prior peanut research, including genome mapping.

• Collaborative effort with research institutions and global agricultural experts.

Bayer Files for Approval of New Herbicide Icafolin

• Bayer submitted Icafolin for EU approval, targeting post-emergent weed control.

• Part of Bayer’s CropKey platform, promoting regenerative agriculture.

• Initial launch set for Brazil in 2028; peak sales potential estimated at €750 million.

• Designed to enhance resistance management and complement existing herbicides.

Ambienta Acquires Agronova Biotech

• Ambienta acquired Spain-based Agronova Biotech, a leader in biological crop inputs.

• First agriculture sector investment for Ambienta and entry into Spanish market.

• Agronova provides over 800 biostimulant and biocontrol products for stress management.

• Aims to expand through organic growth and acquisitions, delivering sustainable solutions across Europe.

NuCicer Raises $11.5M to Scale High-Protein Chickpeas

• NuCicer secured $11.5 million in Series A funding to scale production of next-gen chickpeas.

• Aims to expand in North America, Europe, and global supply chains.

• Chickpeas feature up to 35% protein, high fiber, and lower fat—ideal for clean-label foods.

• Matures up to 20 days earlier than standard crops, reducing need for chemical desiccants.

Acres.com Partners with Lee & Associates

• Acres.com partnered with Lee & Associates to bring land intelligence tools to over 1,400 associates.

• Tools enhance land transaction efficiency in agriculture, energy, and development.

• Enables better decision-making through data-driven insights and market clarity.

CEA
CEA Updates: New Expansion, Partnership & More!

Vertical Future Faces Insolvency and Explores Sale

• London-based vertical farming firm Vertical Future is undergoing insolvency proceedings and exploring a potential sale.

• Reported £692,000 in revenue and £10 million in losses. Involved in high-profile projects in space agriculture, urban farming, and food security.

• Secured a £1.5 million grant for autonomous agriculture systems in space missions.

• Remains committed to supporting partners and customers while evaluating strategic options.

Sollum Technologies Partners with Greenway Farms

• Sollum Technologies partnered with Maryland’s Greenway Farms to deploy dynamic LED lighting in aquaponic lettuce operations.

• Uses SF-ONE™ LED fixtures managed via the SUN as a Service® platform.

• Lighting system enables spectrum and intensity control by growth phase and production zone.

• Enhances product consistency, energy efficiency, and sustainability outcomes.

• Supports Greenway’s goal of sustainable aquaponic production of lettuce and fish.

AeroFarms Expands Microgreens Distribution via Harris Teeter

• AeroFarms expanded its retail footprint with Harris Teeter, offering microgreens in all locations across 8 states and D.C.

• Includes varieties like Micro Broccoli, Rainbow Mix, Micro Kale, and Super Mix.

• Indoor farming model promotes year-round availability, extended shelf life, and reduced food miles.

• Microgreens are grown without soil or pesticides and have 4–40x more nutrients than full-grown vegetables.CE-Line Declares Bankruptcy Amid Commercial Hurdles

OTHER NEWS
Other Updates: New Initiative, Funding Round & More!

• Sumitomo Corporation of Americas (SCOA) has announced a strategic investment in Grupo Papalotla, focusing on its Brazilian operations under Tropical Seeds do Brasil. The partnership aims to scale the use of hybrid pasture seeds for climate-smart livestock farming, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. This collaboration supports Brazil’s national goals for pastureland restoration and sustainable beef production.

• The New York State Department of Agriculture announces third round of funding for urban agriculture initiatives. $2.5 million available to support food production, safety, and distribution in underserved communities. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, educational institutions, municipal entities, and tribal organizations.

• $30.25 million approved to bolster climate protection and agricultural resilience in northern Benin. Initiative to support 150,000 smallholder farmers, including 30% women and 30% youth. Project introduces sovereign and micro-insurance, early warning systems, and climate-smart farming.

• Musim Mas, Nestlé, and AAK extend their collaboration for a fourth year to support independent oil palm smallholders in Aceh Subulussalam. The initiative has trained over 1,580 smallholders and 117 Village Extension Officers (VEOs) since its launch in 2021. The renewed 2025 program will train 500 additional smallholders and 20 more VEOs.

• Wikifarmer, a Greece- and Spain-based agricultural marketplace, enters the UK market. The initiative aims to streamline olive oil sourcing for UK businesses amid recent price volatility. The Wikifarmer platform removes intermediaries, offering direct trade with verified producers.

• TELUS Agriculture & Consumer Goods and Welch’s enter a decade-long partnership to enhance regulatory compliance and supply chain transparency. The initiative aims to implement automated compliance validation and real-time monitoring across Welch’s global operations. TELUS will contribute its proprietary agricultural database and analytics platform to streamline food production workflows.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Commercial UAV Expo | September 2-4, 2025 | Las Vegas, USA

Taiwan Smart Agriweek | September 3-5, 2025 | Taiwan

Global Vertical Farming Show 2025 | 10th – 11th September, 2025 | Dubai, UAE

SPACE | September 16 – 18, 2025 | France

AgraME | October 6 – 7, 2025 | Dubai

Vertical Farming World Congress | Oct 7-9, 2025 | Amsterdam

Special Thanks to Our Directory Members

Established Plan:
SpectraGrow, LettUs Grow, Harvest Returns, Women in CEA, Harnois Greenhouses, Verde Compacto

Scale-Up Plan:
Sollum Technologies, Babylon Micro-Farms, Ounce of Hope Aquaponics, Grow-Tec, Microclimates

Not listed yet? Add your company to the directory and start getting noticed!

Good Morning Growers,
This week’s edition spotlights strategic acquisitions, funding momentum, and cross-sector innovations spanning agritech, plant science, and controlled environment agriculture. From autonomous robotics and UV-based pest control to biofertilizers, vertical farms, and integrated finance models—companies like Bonsai Robotics, TriC Robotics, Solynta, and GreenLife are advancing scalable, climate-aligned solutions to support growers, reduce inputs, and enhance food system resilience across regions and crop types.

A heartfelt thank you to all our new members for joining the iGrow Network – we’re excited to have you on board and look forward to sharing the latest innovations and updates with you! Instant access here!

What We Are Covering Today:

1. AgTech & Agribusiness Highlights: New Initiative, Funding Round, & More!

2. Plant Science Updates: Expansion, Funding Round & More!

3. CEA Updates: New Initiative, Partnership & More!

4. Other Updates: New Initiative, Funding Round & More!

5. Upcoming AgTech Events, Conferences & Webinars

Estimated Reading Time: 6 - 7 minutes

🎧 Prefer listening over reading?

Catch the full recap on this week’s AgTech Digest Podcast—available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite

AGRITECH & AGRIBUSINESS
AgTech & Agribusiness Highlights: New Initiative, Funding Round, & More!

Bonsai Robotics Acquires farm-ng to Expand Autonomous Farm Solutions

• Bonsai Robotics has acquired farm-ng to merge AI autonomy with modular electric farm machinery.

• The combined offering aims to deliver integrated robotics for growers and OEMs.

• Leadership includes veterans from John Deere, OpenCV, and Bonsai.

• The acquisition supports scalable, flexible automation across crops and regions.

TriC Robotics Raises $5.5M to Scale UV Pest Control Robots

• TriC Robotics secured $5.5 million in Seed funding to grow its Luna robot fleet.

• Luna uses UV light and vacuum technology to manage pests and reduce chemical use.

• Robots are deployed across strawberry farms in California's Central Coast.

• The funding will support geographic expansion, new hardware, and data capabilities.

Unitree Launches Affordable Field Monitoring Robots

• Unitree Robotics is deploying low-cost quadruped robots in agriculture through institutional partnerships.

• The Go2 robot uses edge computing and AI vision for real-time crop monitoring.

• Priced from $1,600, the robots aim to reduce labor needs and attract younger farmers.

• The initiative promotes scalable and intelligent field solutions.

Rabobank, DLL, and EIB Commit €1B to Sustainable Ag Finance

• Rabobank and DLL have partnered with the European Investment Bank to provide €1 billion in funding.

• Aimed at SMEs and agriculture, the funding includes climate and bioeconomy priorities.

• Rabobank and DLL will each receive €250 million from EIB and match it with their own capital.The initiative targets sustainable growth across the Netherlands and nine EU countries.

Carlyle and FarmOp Capital Sign $250M Lending Agreement

• Carlyle agreed to purchase $250 million in newly issued farm operating loans from FarmOp Capital.

• The deal expands FarmOp’s ability to lend to independent U.S. row crop farmers.

• Funding will support loan origination capacity and new agricultural finance products.

• The partnership addresses gaps in traditional financing options for producers.

Excited to join the agri-food industry’s top minds at Reuters Events: Transform Food & Agriculture USA 2025 in Minneapolis!

With global food systems under pressure, this event brings together 200 senior leaders to share insights, spark partnerships, and drive practical solutions.

Can’t wait to hear from leaders like Sonya Gafsi Oblisk (Whole Foods), Florian Schattenmann (Cargill), Racquel Harris Mason (LIPTON), Heather Anfang (Land O'Lakes), and Claire Babineaux-Fontenot (Feeding America).

If you're working toward a more sustainable and resilient food future, this is where it starts.

Learn more here.

PLANT SCIENCE
Plant Science Updates: Acquisition, Funding Round & More!

Biobest Expands IPM Capabilities with Ecoation Acquisition

• Biobest has acquired Ecoation’s Crop-Scanner™ and OKO 2 tools to expand its IPM automation portfolio.

• The tools enhance Biobest’s high-tech pest and yield monitoring systems.

• Ecoation staff will join Biobest’s High-Tech Development and Customer Success Center.

• The acquisition strengthens Biobest’s position in smart crop protection.

Vestaron Gains Emergency Use Approval in Southern Europe

• Vestaron secured EUAs for its bioinsecticide SPEAR LEP in Greece, Italy, and Portugal.

• The 120-day authorizations help address pest resistance and pesticide availability gaps.

• The approvals were driven by grower advocacy and regulatory collaboration.

• SPEAR LEP is positioned as a sustainable pest control option for European growers.

Solynta Secures €20M for True Potato Seed Expansion

• Dutch biotech Solynta received €20 million in venture debt from the EIB to accelerate TPS deployment.

• The non-GMO hybrid potato seeds reduce input needs and improve disease resistance.

• The funding supports EU goals for food security and climate resilience under InvestEU.

• Solynta’s innovation aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals.

NetZeroNitrogen Raises €5.6M for Biofertilizer Development

• UK-based NetZeroNitrogen raised €5.6 million to scale its endophytic bacteria-based biofertilizer.

• The product aims to reduce synthetic nitrogen use and greenhouse gas emissions.

• Investors include World Fund, Azolla Ventures, and Zero Carbon Capital.

• The solution targets improved soil health and climate-positive farming practices.

CEA
CEA Updates: New Initiative, Partnership & More!

Kuwait’s First Aeroponic Farm Launches with GreenLife and CleanGreens

• GreenLife and CleanGreens introduced Kuwait’s first aeroponic farm, producing up to 900 kg of lettuce daily.

• The system uses 96% less water than traditional farming and 60% less than hydroponics.

• The project was built in two years and became the first GAP-certified farm in the GCC in 2024.

• GreenLife’s market research guided product development; expansion plans are underway.

Néboda Raises €1.84M to Advance Vertical Farming Tech

• Spanish startup Néboda raised €1.84 million to expand its vertical farming system.

• The company focuses on basil production using hydroponics, automation, and computer vision.

• The system reportedly delivers over 90% water savings and reduces environmental impact.

• Funding will support business validation and sales partnerships with Iberian distributors.

Square Roots Japan Launches Sage AI Assistant for CEA

• Square Roots Japan introduced Sage, an AI assistant for indoor farmers.

• Integrated into the Farmer Toolbelt OS, Sage provides real-time task-specific support.

• Developed using AWS Bedrock and in-house data, Sage replaces static guides with conversational AI.

• The launch marks Square Roots’ first major step in AI-enabled CEA operations.

CE-Line Declares Bankruptcy Amid Commercial Hurdles

• Dutch greenhouse sensor company CE-Line B.V. was declared bankrupt on July 23, 2025. The company specialized in real-time nutrient monitoring for horticulture.

• CE-Line struggled with delayed commercialization, international trade challenges, and financial pressures.

• Despite holding a 15% stake, investors Horticoop and Yield Lab Europe were unable to prevent closure.

• Bankruptcy trustee Bas van Dijen is assessing possibilities for a potential restart with interested parties.

OTHER NEWS
Other Updates: New Initiative, Funding Round & More!

• The African Development Bank has approved a €100 million loan to support Morocco’s solidarity-based agriculture program. The initiative focuses on empowering women and youth in rural areas, promoting entrepreneurship and food security. The program aligns with Morocco’s Green Generation 2020–2030 Strategy and national goals for youth and agricultural development.

• EmGenisys closed an oversubscribed $1.5 million seed funding round led by Grit Road Partners. Investors include Tall Grass Ventures and Ag Venture Alliance, Funding will support commercialization of EmVision, an AI platform for real-time embryo evaluation

• The John Innes Centre is among 12 UK institutions selected to receive funding from the £54 million Global Talent Fund. The funding is intended to support recruitment of international researchers in sectors aligned with the UK’s Industrial Strategy. The John Innes Centre will focus on Advanced Manufacturing, Life Sciences, and Digital and Technologies.

• DTN introduces a new enterprise platform for decision-making in volatile environments. Platform integrates AI, sector-specific data, and real-time insights for key industries. Features hubs tailored for agriculture, fuel operations, and weather-sensitive sectors.

• Provectus Algae secures US$10.1M in Series A financing and US$2.5M in Australian government grants. Funding will support scaling of Surf’N’Turf®, an algae-based livestock feed that reduces methane emissions. Backers include At One Ventures, Methane Mitigation, Mort & Co, Hitachi Ventures, and others.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Commercial UAV Expo | September 2-4, 2025 | Las Vegas, USA

Taiwan Smart Agriweek | September 3-5, 2025 | Taiwan

Global Vertical Farming Show 2025 | 10th – 11th September, 2025 | Dubai, UAE

SPACE | September 16 – 18, 2025 | France

AgraME | October 6 – 7, 2025 | Dubai

Vertical Farming World Congress | Oct 7-9, 2025 | Amsterdam

Special Thanks to Our Directory Members

Established Plan:
SpectraGrow, LettUs Grow, Harvest Returns, Women in CEA, Harnois Greenhouses, Verde Compacto

Scale-Up Plan:
Sollum Technologies, Babylon Micro-Farms, Ounce of Hope Aquaponics, Grow-Tec, Microclimates

Not listed yet? Add your company to the directory and start getting noticed!