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5 ways to succeed in AgriTech – plus how to secure funding for your startup

 
 
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A selection of advice from AgriTech experts, plus news of the Funding Readiness Programme.

Here are some highlights from recently published AgriTech insights, as well as information on the Eagle Labs Funding Readiness Programme, powered by Capital Enterprise.

Seek support from your county

Are you concerned about the impact of Brexit, climate change and labour shortages? If so, contact your local authority. Many regional branches of government have set support mechanisms to help those working in agriculture.

The Greater Lincolnshire Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP), for example, recently launched the National Centre for Food Manufacturing—which advises on the role of automation and robotics in farming.

Martin Collison, AgriFood Advisor to the Greater Lincolnshire LEP, explains how Lincolnshire is supporting the agriculture sector in this video interview.

Focus on the opportunities

The UK produces around 60% of everything we eat, and with a global population expected to reach 9bn by 2050, AgriTech offers an opportunity to help farmers provide more food with less resource, in an environmentally sustainable way.

Now is the time to explore the uses of AI, selective cropping and drones to reach that larger market and secure your future success.

Watch this video interview with Mark Suthern, Barclays’ National Head of Agriculture, and Roxanne Martin, Barclays’ AgriTech Innovation Lead, for more on the future of AgriTech and agriculture — including how Barclays can help.

Collaborate to succeed

When developing a product, it is vital to work with potential customers – especially in the world of AgriTech, says Professor Simon Pearson, Director of the Lincoln Institute of Agri-Food Technology.

There are opportunities for startups at every stage of the value chain and working with food producers can be the key to success.

Pearson explains how bringing founders and farmers together will help startups succeed, as well as protecting the environment and empowering consumers.

Be prepared to wear many hats

The life of a solo founder in AgriTech requires adaptability and a willingness to get your hands dirty in all aspects of the business.

You will have to take care of the day-to-day operations, plan long-term strategy, speak to potential clients, collaborators, run R&D programmes, and more.

In this video Alicja Dzieciol, Founder and Director of SilviBio, discusses the lessons she has learned on her founder journey, going from an idea for a forestry solution to a growing AgriTech startup in less than a year.

Data is the future in AgriTech

Data, smart communications and automation are the trends changing the agriculture industry. Clive Blacker, Head of Business Development EMEA, Map of Ag, says farmers are starting to challenge the thinking around production processes and that the industry as a whole is embracing technological change more readily.

In this video, Blacker also considers sustainability in farming and the push to move to carbon net zero.

Consider crowdfunding and innovation funding

Covid-19 has slowed investment in some areas but there has never been a better time to seek innovation funding, says John Spindler, CEO of Capital Enterprise. And while angel investors are being cautious with initial investments, the crowdfunding market is set for exciting developments in the next 18 months.

In this video, Spindler shares more thoughts on the current funding and investment landscape and explains how the Eagle Labs Funding Readiness Programme, powered by Capital Enterprise, can help founders secure the finance to grow.

Ensure your startup is attractive to investors and secure grant funding

Funding is a primary focus for many founders, but the right preparation and approach is vital to successful pitches and applications. The Eagle Labs Funding Readiness Programme, powered by Capital Enterprise, runs from September to November 2020 and founders can register their interest now.

Arianna Rabin, Commercial Project Coordinator at Capital Enterprise explains how the Funding Readiness Programme can help founders whether they are looking for grant funding, crowdfunding or some form of equity investment.

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