Key Takeaways
- AgTech drives this week’s headlines with funding rounds, product certifications, and AI-backed crop protection.
- Flat6Labs invests in Green Desert Technologies to scale algae cultivation in desert environments.
- Enko CEO Tom Meade outlines AI’s role in enhancing molecule design for crop protection.
- Strategic infrastructure partnerships in the UAE and UK aim to expand AgTech capabilities.
- Upcoming events spotlight key AgTech conferences across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
AgTech Investment and Global Collaborations
Flat6Labs Backs Algae-Based AgTech Startup
Flat6Labs has invested in Green Desert Technologies, a biotech firm using algae biomanufacturing for arid environments. The AgTech startup leverages machine learning and chemical engineering to improve cultivation efficiency and reduce costs. The initiative forms part of Flat6Labs’ broader investment focus on environmental innovation across the Middle East and Africa.
Brilliant Harvest Secures $500,000 in AgTech Funding
Brilliant Harvest received $500,000 from SVG Ventures’ Pioneer Fund to expand operations in Alberta. The funding is part of a $50 million pool backed by Farm Credit Canada and Alberta Innovates, dedicated to advancing AgTech innovation through the Scale-Up GAP program.
AED 120 Million AgTech Facility Announced in Al Ain
Silal and Shouguang Vegetable Industry Group (SVG) signed a strategic partnership to build a 100,000m² AgTech facility in Al Ain. The center will deploy climate-adapted greenhouse systems, AI, and robotics, with localized applications of SVG’s Shouguang Model to suit UAE conditions.
AI-Driven AgTech: From R&D to Product Development
AI Powers Enko’s Approach to Crop Protection
Tom Meade, CEO of Enko, highlighted how their ENKOMPASS™ platform uses AI to accelerate agrochemical development. The system reportedly identifies molecules 75% faster and at 90% lower cost than traditional methods. “The scientist-in-the-loop model ensures AI remains a tool, not a replacement,” said Meade, emphasizing human oversight in Enko’s AgTech R&D approach. Read the entire conversation here.
Pivot Bio Expands Global HQ and Research Operations
Pivot Bio opened two new AgTech hubs in the U.S. Midwest, one of which serves as its Global Headquarters. The centers focus on enhancing microbial nitrogen product development, already deployed on 15+ million acres. Expansion to South America and Africa is underway, with integration of AI/ML in new trials.
Certified Inputs and Biological Innovations in AgTech
VGrid Achieves Organic Certification
VGrid Energy Systems earned Organic Input Material certification from California’s Department of Food and Agriculture for its Persist® Biochar and Bioliquid products. Produced from ag waste, these certified inputs contribute to soil health and sustainable farming practices in AgTech systems.
Biotalys and AgroFresh Partner on Post-Harvest Fungicides
AgTech firms Biotalys and AgroFresh launched a strategic initiative to combat fungal spoilage. Their biological fungicide development targets losses that account for 14% of global produce waste from harvest to retail.
Super Growers Launches EPA-Exempt Biopesticide
Super Growers introduced Omnicide IPM, a nano-emulsion biopesticide that acts as an insecticide, fungicide, and sporicide. Approved under EPA FIFRA 25(b), the biodegradable product is suitable for both conventional and organic AgTech applications.
AgTech in Controlled Environments: Containers and Vertical Farms
Container Mushroom Farming Expands Reach
Compact mushroom farms using retrofitted 40-foot containers are gaining popularity. Systems feature automated climate controls, producing yields of up to 400 lbs/week of Blue Oyster mushrooms. Startup costs average $235K, with distribution via farmers markets and specialty retailers.
Read the entire editorial here.
Flower Farming for Dubai’s Fine Dining Sector
Greeneration operates a vertical farm in Dubai focused on edible flowers and microgreens. The AgTech facility supplies local chefs with freshly harvested, climate-controlled produce using advanced lighting and nutrient systems adapted for UAE conditions.
Read the entire editorial here.
AgTech Infrastructure and Precision Technologies
Microsoft and Partners Tackle Rural Connectivity
Microsoft Airband, Emergent Connext, and Cal.net are expanding broadband infrastructure across California’s Central Valley to support AgTech operations. Improved connectivity enables precision agriculture tools, including real-time irrigation management and livestock monitoring.
Smart Drone Collaboration Enhances Imaging
AgEagle and Ascent AeroSystems signed an MOU to integrate the RedEdge-P multispectral camera with Ascent’s Spirit UAV. This marks the first multispectral payload for Ascent’s coaxial drones, targeting crop health diagnostics within precision AgTech use cases.
Other Industry Developments
- Dairy Cares and the California dairy industry reported an annual reduction of 5 million metric tons CO₂e through improved manure management and efficiency gains.
- LettUs Grow partnered with CambridgeHOK to commercialize Advanced Aeroponics™ in UK-based greenhouse and vertical farm projects.
- Bioxytran’s antiviral candidate PHM23 is included in a USDA grant application to tackle H5N1 avian influenza.
- Bartlett, a Savage company, is set to acquire Ceres Global Ag Corp., expanding its grain logistics network across North America.
Upcoming AgTech Events
- GreenTech Amsterdam | June 10–12, 2025 | RAI Amsterdam
- Global Vertical Farming Show | Sept 10–11, 2025 | Dubai, UAE
- AgraME | Oct 6–7, 2025 | Dubai
- Vertical Farming World Congress | Oct 7–9, 2025 | Amsterdam
- Commercial UAV Expo | Sept 2–4, 2025 | Las Vegas, USA
- Taiwan Smart Agriweek | Sept 3–5, 2025 | Taiwan
- SPACE | Sept 16–18, 2025 | France
Join the AgTech Community
A new online AgTech community has launched to bring together professionals, innovators, and decision-makers in the agriculture technology space. The platform provides a space for members to connect, share insights, and explore collaboration opportunities.
👉 Sign up here
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