Farms.com Home   Ag Industry News

Farm2050 looks to help agricultural technology startup

Collective includes companies headed by Google Chairman Eric Schmidt

By Diego Flammini, Farms.com

Startups dedicated to agricultural technology (agtech) who need a financial boost in hopes their dreams become a reality can apply for an investment partnership with some heavy hitters in the agtech world.

Innovation Endeavours and Flextronics’ Lab IX, founded by Google Chairman Eric Schmidt, AGCO, DuPont, and others, make up Farm2050, an initiative focusing on robotics and data science to confront global food security and waste.

"(A hundred) years ago, we saw the Haber-Bosch process enable fertilizer development," said Innovation Endeavors Managing Partner Dror Berman, in a statement. "50 years ago, we saw the refrigerated truck facilitate the long-distance transport of perishables. And today, we're seeing the emergence of robotics and machine learning applied to agricultural practices.”

The obstacles the entrepreneurs face is intense. Berman estimates needing to feed more than 10 billion people by 2050. That’ll require a nearly 70% increase in food production.

“This is a tall order but also the type of challenge that technologists should be working to solve,” he said.

Farm2050 isn’t the only investment group to look at infusing the agricultural business sector.

In November, Kleiner Perkins Caufield and Byers invested in Farmers Edge out of Winnipeg, Manitoba, who specialize in precision agriculture.

"They uniquely integrate real-time satellite imagery and in-field telematics to maximize yield and minimize environmental footprint," said Kleiner Perkins' Brook Porter, in a statement. "Farmer's Edge is leading the current disruption around how crops are grown, and ultimately how crops are valued as traceability becomes an increasingly important factor in the food supply chain."
 


Trending Video

KIOTI RX 7340 Customization | An Updated Overview

Video: KIOTI RX 7340 Customization | An Updated Overview

KIOTI Tractor Specialist Neal Darby takes you through an updated overview of the impressive RX7340. Packed with new upgrades and enhanced features, the RX7340 is the perfect example of a powerful, reliable tractor that can tackle any job on your property. With its 73 horsepower capability, this tractor is designed to handle even the toughest tasks, from landscaping to heavy-duty work. Watch as Neal walks you through the key improvements that make the RX7340 stand out and why it’s the ideal choice for those looking for versatility, performance, and durability.