Key Takeaways:
- AgriFutures growAG. has launched in New Zealand, aiming to connect local agritech innovators with global opportunities.
- The platform has already facilitated over NZD$162 million in startup investment and featured over 3,000 research projects.
- Eight New Zealand projects live on AgriFutures growAG., seeking partners, suppliers, and investment.
- The initiative is expected to accelerate the development of sustainable agricultural solutions.
- The platform’s in-person concierge team facilitates international cooperation and collaboration.
‘The Launch of AgriFutures growAG. Is An Exciting Opportunity for New Zealand Agritech’
The launch of AgriFutures growAG. in New Zealand marks a significant milestone for the local agritech sector. Peter Wren-Hilton, founder of Agritech New Zealand and agritech venture capitalist, expressed his enthusiasm for this development. “New Zealand has world-class innovation happening here in agritech, and AgriFutures growAG. is an ideal platform to showcase our achievements on the global stage,” he said. “Having worked closely with the AgriFutures growAG. team I’ve seen the international audience they’ve built and the wonderful opportunities they’ve facilitated all around the world – it’s exciting to be able to now offer this to companies, researchers and investors here in New Zealand.”
Connecting Ecosystems and Opportunities
Harriet Mellish, General Manager of Global Innovation Networks at AgriFutures Australia, highlighted the benefits of the partnership for the New Zealand agritech ecosystem. “In the three years since we launched we’ve supported over NZD$162 million in startup investment; featured over 3,000 research projects and welcomed visitors from 190 countries,” she said. “We have already worked with some exceptional companies and researchers from New Zealand and I hope that number will rapidly grow now we are formally here.”
Brendan O’Connell, CEO of AgriTech New Zealand, emphasized the importance of this launch for the local agritech sector. “The launch of AgriFutures growAG. in New Zealand is a significant moment for our agritech sector. By connecting our local innovators with international partners, we are opening doors to new opportunities and accelerating the development of cutting-edge solutions for sustainable agriculture,” he said.
Current Projects Seeking Collaboration
AgriFutures growAG. has already listed eight innovative projects from New Zealand that are seeking research partners, suppliers, and investment:
- Fleecegrow: This company is exploring ways to turn wool waste into plant-growing media and fertilizer, providing a sustainable alternative to stone wool.
- Map & Zap: An AI-driven weed identification and laser-zapping solution aimed at reducing the need for chemical herbicides.
- Nanobubble Agritech: Specializing in irrigation technology that aims to double the productive capacity of water.
- ProTag: A next-generation smart tag for livestock, offering advanced behavior analytics and location monitoring.
Discover the complete list here.
Facilitating Global Collaboration
The AgriFutures growAG. platform is supported by an in-person concierge team that facilitates listings and introductions for international collaboration. This team actively promotes the platform and its opportunities at global events. In 2024, they have been present in the USA, Netherlands, UK, and New Zealand, showcasing the potential for investment and partnerships.
Image provided by AgriFutures growAG