Shows
Our Week in Agri-TechNoble potatoes, funding to scale your business, and member catch-upsIn this week's round-up from Agri-TechE:🥔 Speaking at CUPGRA's 36th Annual Cambridge Potato Conference and attending the gorgeous Potato Barons' Feast - from innovation management for new tech - to identifying country of origin of the celery......by taste! 💷 Funding for Scaling £100m up for grabs through Innovate UK's new programme. 🤗 Catching up with members Elveden Farms Ltd and Intelligent Growth Solutions (IGS), and a warm welcome to GoMicro - AI in a box to improve product quality in fresh produce, grain and nuts. 🚜 Getting ready f...
2025-12-1203 minOur Week in Agri-TechWhat value – and price – do we assign to Nature?This week’s podcast will reveal…... The value of “nature benefits” in England in 2024 (at £37billion, it’s more than any single manufacturing sector in the UK) and why we should care about the UK’s newly-released Environment Improvement Plan. Plus Agri-TechE’s event on Nature-tech for Profit and Planet in April 2026 at Rothamsted Research in April next year. https://www.agri-tech-e.co.uk/civicrm/event/info/?reset=1&id=27311 What delegates REALLY thought of REAP 2025 – and getting next year’s date locked in your diary! Exciting news for those looking to e...
2025-12-0502 min
The Crop It Like It's Hot PodcastInnovations and research from Agri-TechE's REAP conferenceThis month, Farmers Guardian headed to Agri-TechE's REAP Conference in Peterborough and caught up with some speakers, industry professionals and researchers to find out what the key takeaway messages were from the conference, what research and innovations are on the way into the industry and what technology is currently being utilised on farms.Speakers Dr Belinda Clarke, Director of Agri-TechDr David George, researcher at Newcastle UniversityTodd Jex, agronomist and Agri-TechE AmbassadorAli Capper, hops and apple grower at Stock Farm and chair of British Apples a...
2025-11-2814 minOur Week in Agri-TechCandid thoughts on investment, scaling, partnerships and exportingWhat does the UK’s #agritech community hope the Modern Industrial Strategy will deliver on the ground? This week’s Friday round-up comes from @syngenta 's global R&D HQ, where we debated four potential pillars of growth – investment, scaling, partnerships and exporting. Huge thanks to Gardin, RootWave, Tropic and AgriSound for candid sharing of the importance of these pillars for the growth of their businesses. Throw in a site tour, meeting the next generation of #robodogs for crop scouting, and a scene-set from George Freeman who – in this week of the UK Budget - stands ready to s...
2025-11-2801 minOur Week in Agri-TechInternational Inspirations for UK AgricultureFrom AI (in all its definitions) and IOT via the “AKIS” and learning from the Irish and New Zealand agri-food systems – with some big thoughts on UK horticulture.This week we discovered:The power of AI in distilling complex content – Burleigh Dodds commissions publications from world experts on topics around agri-food, including regenerative agriculture. Their AgNetZero platform enables a quality referenced interrogation across all their content. You can have a 30 day free trial to have a play.The key elements of an effective Agriculture Knowledge Innovation System, at a workshop run by A...
2025-11-2104 minOur Week in Agri-Tech“The times, they are a’changin’…….”Closing the week where we’ve seen the REAP2025 conference and the community come together around the 30:50:50 Summit for innovation in agriculture – our industry is only heading one way. And we ALL need to be part of the change. Big love to everyone who was part of the REAP conference, one of our favourite reflections in the feedback was the noticeable positivity and “can-do” vibe among the farm businesses, innovators and researchers in the room. Minette Batters DL set the tone for change with her excellent keynote address (there's a hot-off-the-press story abo...
2025-11-0703 minOur Week in Agri-TechGlobal Agritech in the Context of SpaceWe're so busy in the Agri-TechE team, this week's vlog was recorded on my way to the car from the office! We're in great shape for REAP Conference next week, last chance to register! In other news: 💻 The Agri-Tech Week event blogs are coming in and we have a short (but snazzy) video summarising the Week's events. 🛰️ Giving a talk about the state of global agritech to the team at Lacuna Space - with some great questions and discussions about the state of soils, investor trends, the role of regulati...
2025-10-3101 minOur Week in Agri-TechA wrap for Agri-Tech Week 2025Welcome to our latest new member Field Zero – putting farmers' needs at the heart of the innovation and discovery process (and well done for your dedication to #ATW2025!)Plus the latest Agri-TechE newsletter landed this week, (with our latest new blog - "Is scaling is ever plain-sailing in #agritech?"). Plus excellent member meetings this week with Delytics Ltd; Prime Agriculture Llp; G's Group Fresh, AF (The AF Group); The Crown Estate and the John Innes Centre. Thank you again to #ATW2025 partners THE MORLEY AGRICULTURAL FOUNDATION, Norwich Research Park, Pixa...
2025-10-2403 minOur Week in Agri-TechCan the EU crack healthy soils?How do we feel about an EU-wide framework for assessing and monitoring soils? The Council of the EU has just formally adopted a Soil Monitoring Directive, with the aim of achieving “healthy soils across Europe by 2050.” (As someone recently pointed out, 2050 will be quite the watershed year, if the many MANY aspirations are indeed achieved by then 🙂). Anyway – given the challenge the UK has had trying to untangle the whole “healthy soils” agenda, let’s hope the EU can crack it. What do you think? In other news: On Monday we’re...
2025-10-1702 minOur Week in Agri-TechFresh Thinking in the Big SmokeFriday round up from Agri-TechE is in London – this week's vlog features a re-boot of some of our activities, a host of meetings and a reminder to book your hashtag#REAP2025 and hashtag#ATW2025 tickets! In summary: 🤝 Meeting the (very) Great and (very) Good members of the esteemed Agricultural Forum to talk all things agri-tech. 💡 An Agricultural Productivity Group meeting, excellent chairing by David Exwood and meeting his new co-chair Rachel Bailey, who will be leading agri-growth, technology and trade within the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Af...
2025-10-1003 minOur Week in Agri-TechSomething a little sweetA sugar-y Friday round up from Agri-TechE, with new innovations for sugar beet production, a new policy report with all you need to know about the UK agri-food system, and welcoming two of our latest new members. Great catch-up with Germains Seed Technology around beneficial microbes and nutrient-rich seed coatings for sugar beet and spinach seeds - and more! A new report on the Future of the UK Food System by our members GK Strategy - read this and you will discover all you need to know (and we got a mention as well!). https://bit.ly...
2025-10-0303 minOur Week in Agri-TechInsights on Defence and Agri-Tech CrossoversDefence and agri-tech – shared innovations and opportunities and challenges with UK Food Valley with Lincolnshire County Council.🌏 A great meeting with the leaders from the @Beijing Vocational College of Agriculture – a real meeting of minds!🌿 Agreeing vehemently with CropLife UK around the regulatory environment for crop solutions👋 Welcome to some of our latest new members: Pangaea Biosciences (overcoming resistance to pesticides and reducing the need for surfactants) The Fresh Partnership – expert advice to develop agri-food supply chains OptiGene – detecting bacteria and viruses attacking crops a...
2025-09-2603 minOur Week in Agri-TechPlant "nostrils" and a Big Announcement🍀 Learning how the number of tiny pores on the surface of leaves might help build drought resilience. A great day at Niab's East Malling site, hearing about the research underway into soft fruit and top fruit. 🥂 Delighting in being the UK partner for the next generation of the H.A.R.V.E.S.T. AgTech programme, - part of the Wells Fargo Innovation Incubator (IN2) - with The Yield Lab Institute in St. Louis, Missouri and other international ecosystem partners. 🤐 Chairing an expert panel to discuss "Innovating towards the next agricultural revolution."...
2025-09-1903 minOur Week in Agri-TechFinance, Investment and InternationalWelcome to the first podcast version of our weekly agri-tech roundup.This week.........🌍 Presenting at the Delta-T Devices Global Distributor Conference.💸 Being inspired at our Focus on Finance event - and discovering there is around €414Bn in "dry powder" (uninvested funds) across Europe, and hearing from 15 fantastic hashtag#agritech start-ups. Thank you to our event sponsor Innovate UK and our exhibitors. 📅 Announcing the line-up for hashtag#AgriTechWeek2025 - it's our biggest one yet - October 20th-24th!🛫 Going "Round the World" to Australia with AgriFutures growAG on Mond...
2025-09-1203 min
The Best in Field PodcastBelinda Clarke | Agri-TechEBest in Field is back for Season 3 with a new host and fresh conversations about the people and ideas shaping agriculture.In this opening episode, Rupert welcomes Belinda Clarke, Director of Agri-TechE, to explore the innovations driving the sector forward. From AI and robotics to data integration and farmer collaboration, Belinda shares her perspective on what really matters in agri-tech, and what it takes to make innovation work on-farm.She also dives into global lessons from the Netherlands to Singapore, the challenges of farmer adoption, and why the unglamorous...
2025-09-0225 min
Brash Ag33. Chewing the Cud: Belinda Clarke OBE Agri-TechEThis week Ray and Kit snapped up the opportunity to chew the cud with Belinda Clarke OBE Director at Agri -TechE. Belinda shared how her early career in Natural sciences and science liaison took her on to build Agri-TechE as a membership organisation from the ground up. 12 years after starting Agri-TechE, Belinda shares some of the lessons she has learned, what the future holds for Agri-TechE and the agtech sector as a whole.
The trio also try to answer one of life's big questions…”What is even is Agritech?”
2025-05-2257 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatDrone use in Agriculture and BVLOS/AAEPioneering work by SEAD Artists could be about to unblock the bottlenecks impeding the use of drones in agriculture, allowing beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) flight and the aerial application of key crop protection products. SEAD Artists is a consortium of like-minded drone experts supporting agricultural innovation using new technology and drones. The members are Autospray Systems, Skypointe, Aerofirm and DronePrep. They have collaborated on several projects utilising drones in specific settings, like plaudiculture and forestry. Their work is now beginning to overcome the significant regulatory hurdles that have hampered drone use and adoption in...
2025-05-1539 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatTomorrow's Challenges, Today's ResearchThis episode forms part of our Back to the Future project, for Agri-TechE's 10th birthday celebrations.Belinda Clarke interviews Vicky Foster of British Beet Research Organisation, discussing the long term nature of research planning and predicting the challenges we'll face in the future so we can begin to resesarch solutions now.As part of our “Back to the Future” project, we’re asking Agri-TechE members to reflect on how the agri-tech industry has evolved over the past decade and to share their vision for the next ten years. By compiling these insights, we aim to...
2025-01-0303 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatAvoiding Frustration 101 when Implementing TechnologyHow to approach the challenge of technology adoption? Agricultural technologies hold immense potential and promise for improvement, yet their adoption often involves striking a delicate balance of risk-taking and co-development between innovators and growers.Frederick Hiam is cautious about being such early adopters they shoulder all the risk, yet they believe that waiting for fully developed solutions to simply be delivered to farmers is unlikely to hit the mark. Jamie Lockhart, Managing Director, discusses their approach. Collaborate with developers from the outset - “Start with the problem we need answering,” so that co-development benefits both parties— delive...
2024-12-2305 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatLeveraging Digitisation in Farm MachineryBen Burgess is a supplier of several leading brands in the agricultural, construction and grounds care industries. In this episode, Ben Turner talks to us about the game-changer for agriculture; digitalisation of whole agricultural environment, embedded in everything inc all machinery. We're moving from 'hard to use, difficult, antiquated' to actually technology is making life much easier. However, we do need to utilise the tech, not just have it as a passenger there on the journey - we have to come together as a team to make the most of this. This e...
2024-12-2005 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatEnvironmental Sensing for AgricultureArtificial intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept in agriculture - it's enabling innovative solutions to long-standing challenges and creating new opportunities across the industry. In this episode, Delta-T Devices emphasises AI's role in handling complex datasets to improve precision farming, seeing AI as vital for scaling research into commercial farming, enabling better decision-making and optimising crop conditions. This builds on their long history designing instruments for measuring and monitoring the environment. They have a strong focus on soil moisture, precision irrigation, agronomy, plant physiology, eco-physiology, data logging, solar radiation and meteorology. T...
2024-12-1805 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatReal-Time Disease DetectionROBOSCIENTIFIC LIMITED is advancing early disease detection in animals and plants using volatile organic compound (VOC) analysis. In this episode, Angie Curtis talks us through how this could change vetinary practices in future for quicker, more reliable diagnostics - resulting in healthier animals. They acknowledge scepticism as a key barrier to adoption, observing that many farmers are eager to embrace innovation but concerned about the risks associated with unproven systems. They advocate collaborative efforts to build trust and demonstrate reliability and to "take a leap of faith and believe it can happen!"This episode forms part...
2024-12-1615 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatFinding the Right PeopleAs experts in talent acquisition for agri-tech, AgRecruit highlights a surge in agri-tech jobs and a significant trend: the sector is increasingly drawing specialists from outside traditional agriculture, such as those in engineering and biotech. This influx of diverse skills is essential as agri-tech becomes more complex, blending traditional farming with cutting-edge technologies like precision farming and alternative proteins. We sat down with Sam Clayton of AgRecruit to discover the latest in recruitment trends - why its hard and how to find non-traditional applicants for new roles.This episode forms part of our Back to the...
2024-12-1305 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatUnderstanding Technology Use Caseseg technology solve engineering and design challenges for clients, to turn their ideas into products. In this episode we discuss the trend of productivity - making the most of a scarce resource (land) with scale and precision. The key to development is understanding priority impact - which action will have the biggest impact.Specialising in electronics and software engineering, industrial and mechanical design, human factors, project management, technical due diligence and regulatory compliance, eg know how to solve technical challenges and make things work. eg is an agile and adaptive development partner providing tailored project delivery...
2024-12-1107 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatPhenotyping Indoor CropsGardin Agritech predicts that real-time monitoring and automation will revolutionise farming. Their technology, which leverages optical sensing and AI-driven insights, allows farmers to monitor plant health and optimise crop nutrition efficiently. Gardin provides precision agriculture tools that help farmers grow nutrient-dense, climate-resilient crops while minimising the need for constant oversight.In this episode, we discuss the changes in the customer base for integrated monitoring forecasting and where developments in this technology will take us.This episode forms part of our Back to the Future project, for Agri-TechE's 10th birthday celebrations....
2024-12-0912 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatSupply Chain ManagementLeading UK law firm, Mills & Reeve supports clients in navigating complex regulations that impact agri-tech innovation. In this episode, Jessica Burt, a specialist in food law, gives an insight into the trends in supply chain management. Topics covered include nutrition regulation, the truth behind sustainability claims, and the difficulty for regulators to keep up with changes in gene editing, cultured meat and CBD.They highlight that regulation can either drive or stifle progress, especially in emerging areas like cultured meat and gene-editing. Their insight? To truly move forward, regulators must adapt more rapidly to technological advancements...
2024-12-0609 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatGenetics, Agronomy and DataIn this episode, the CEO of the National Institute of Agricultural Botany (NIAB) Mario Caccamo talks about the role of science in agriculture advances. At the forefront of genetic innovation, NIAB uses advanced research to develop crops and agronomy practices that are more resilient to climate change. They emphasise the need for more effective funding and policy support to make these innovations accessible to farmers. NIAB is a major international centre for plant research, crop evaluation and agronomy – a unique national resource, with nearly 100 years of experience and an internationally recognised reputation for independence, innovation and in...
2024-12-0403 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatAgri-Tech Innovation and CollaborationNicole Sadd is CEO of Rothamsted Enterprises, An innovation, collaboration and events hub for AgriTech and the business community, based in Hertfordshire. In this episode, Nicole emphasises the importance of expanding collaboration across campuses to better support a wider range of agri-tech start-ups. They advocate for creating networks that facilitate knowledge exchange, enhancing innovation and credibility within the sector. With a variety of office and lab spaces for rent, international conference centre, popular restaurant, and VIP destination venue, Rothamsted Enterprises is built on a strong, diverse, and financially sound platform that capitalises on the facilities and...
2024-12-0206 min
AgTech DigestKilter, Pymwymic, Nufarm, Hort Innovation, Source Agriculture, Ascribe Bioscience, Conexus Credit Union, Solis Agrosciences, Ferris Genomics, Veea Inc., LatConnect60, Spire Global, Conduit, Farmers Edge, Lystek, Lallemand Plant Care.- This Week in AgTechWelcome back, listeners! In today’s episode, we’ll explore the latest funding rounds fueling AgTech growth, new products revolutionizing farming practices, and strategic partnerships pushing the boundaries of sustainability and innovation. Let’s dive in!Here’s a Quick Snapshot of What’s Making Headlines:Funding & Investment Highlights: Kilter, Hort Innovation, Conexus and MoreIndustry Updates: Solis Agrosciences, Veea & Spire GlobalAgTech Innovations: Conduit, Farmers Edge, Lallemand Plant Care & MoreGlobal AgTech Highlights: Agri-TechE, Laundando & Associates, Amoéba & More!Upcoming AgTech Events, Conferences & WebinarsRead The Full Summary On The Latest Issue Of IGROW NEWS...
2024-11-2911 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatIs Printing the Future of Agri-Tech?Archipelago Technology Group Ltd is repurposing inkjet technology, originally designed for printing, to provide exact chemical sprays and seed coatings. By translating a technology familiar to other industries, they’re tackling challenges unique to agriculture, illustrating the power of cross-industry innovation in this episode.Archipelago is a technology company based in Cambridge UK. Their expertise lies in the precision creation and transport of droplets to ensure active agrochemicals are accurately applied for horticultural and agricultural applications, reducing waste, saving money, and helping the environment. Powerdrop TM creates precise drops of fluid and transports them onto the targe...
2024-11-2907 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatMixing Old Techniques with New TechnologiesWilliam Haire is Head of Easton Estate at City College Norwich. In this episode, William walks us through some of the changes he's seen on farm, and where the next generation of farmers might take us - and what they need to get us there.City College Norwich is preparing the next generation of farmers through updated curricula that address both new and traditional practices. They’re building a workforce equipped with skills for digital agriculture, low-input systems, and eco-friendly farming — reinforcing the need for lifelong learning to adapt to the evolving landscape.This...
2024-11-2704 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatAdopting Technology into Farming BusinessesJohn Barrett is Director of Sentry. John talks about how GPS, once just a tool for straight-line driving, now enables complex precision mapping. This evolution allows for fine-tuned management across their diverse operations, optimising input use and making every acre work smarter. We also discuss some of the innovative trials Sentry are working on, from robotics to novel crops.Sentry Ltd is one of the largest national farming companies in the UK. With 50 years of farming experience, Sentry are proud to have 20,000 hectares of land under cultivation for clients throughout the country, annually growing over 400,000 tonnes...
2024-11-2515 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatHarnessing the Power of ConnectivityThis time, we're joined by Wyld Networks, who highlight the transformative potential of satellite-based IoT in agriculture. Their satellite technology addresses connectivity challenges by providing reliable, cost-effective data access from even the most remote farms to ensure that all farmers can leverage real-time data to enhance productivity and innovation. WYLD are helping modern businesses make those essential connections — whether it’s gathering data from remote locations via satellite, or creating localised wireless networks to enhance customer experiences, WYLD are connecting people, devices and places — affordably, reliably.This episode forms part of our Back to the...
2024-11-2203 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatPractical Implementation of Disruptive InnovationIn this episode, ADAS reflects on the practicality of implementing game-changing, disruptive innovations on farm. Farmers are increasingly seeing the power of these marginal gains, where targeted tweaks in practices can ultimately lead to better productivity and sustainability.ADAS is home to 450 staff who deliver national and international projects in 60 specialisms including crop nutrition, crop physiology, crop protection (disease management, weed management and pest management), soils, water, horticulture, on-farm advice and livestock management.This episode forms part of our Back to the Future project, for Agri-TechE's 10th birthday celebrations.As...
2024-11-2010 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatCross-Cutting TechnologiesThis episode, we'll be talking how scientific principles can become commercial products. We'll also be looking at how technologies from different industries can come together to address key challenges facing agriculture - such as adoption of biological solutions. Becky Dodds, Director of Communities at Agri-TechE, is joined by Niall Mottram, VP of Energy & CDR at Cambridge Consultants.Cambridge Consultants creates and delivers breakthrough products and services for clients worldwide – from established multinational companies to innovative start-ups. They help bridge the gap between early stage technologies from academia/start-ups and end users looking for solutions th...
2024-11-1813 min
Agri-TechE AgriChat"No such thing as a typical farmer"The AF Group talk us their their own journey bringing technology into their business. AF is the UK’s largest agricultural purchasing co-operative and works with thousands of farmers across the UK.AF have been improving their digital journey - helping farmers predict when to buy fertiliser, massive digitisation of the invoicing system, and the new AF app. By taking farmers on the journey with them, AF Group are leading the way in tech adoption in agriculture.This episode forms part of our Back to the Future project, for Agri-TechE's 10th birthday celebrations....
2024-11-1507 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatBe Inspired by SoilsLaura Bouvet, Agri-TechE's Knowledge Exchange Manager, speaks to Dan Evans in this episode of our Back to the Future project.Dan leads both fundamental and applied research on soil formation and the parent materials from which soil is formed. His work focuses on the interactions between parent materials and soils, how soil parent materials support soil ecosystem services, and the natural and anthropogenic threats to the parent material zone. He also studies how soil formation can be accelerated, such as the manufacturing of new soils for urban green infrastructure.This episode forms part...
2024-11-1305 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatLivestock Breeding and ImprovementGenomic tools have come a long way over the past decade, and David Chin, CEO of LIC, has been at the forefront of this. In interview with Belinda Clarke, David talks us through the the key blocker of data interoperability, adapting technology to different contexts, and making cows more efficient in a changing climate. Originating in New Zealand, LIC is a farmer-owned agri-tech company supplying elite dairy genetics to the world. Improving the livelihoods of dairy farmers is at the heart of everything LIC do and has been for more than a century. They use the...
2024-11-1111 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatAchieving the Potential of Insect RearingWe visited Better Origin to learn more about the Black Soilder Fly and its potential to help agriculture reach net zero. Miha Pipan, Chief Scientific Officer, walks Agri-TechE Director Belinda Clarke through the Better Origins technology.For supermarkets, food producers, and farmers, Better Origin offer modular insect farms that convert food waste into animal feed and other nutrient-rich products. Their technology helps reduce emissions, mitigate food waste, and replace deforestation-linked soy.This episode forms part of our Back to the Future project, for Agri-TechE's 10th birthday celebrations. Song: TVARI...
2024-11-0805 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatAgri-Tech RecruitmentThere has been a huge accelaration of new joiners to the industry in past five years - particularly in "non-ag" talent from non-farming backgrounds bringing new people, new ideas and new ways of working to find solutions to the challenges of the industry and the world! David Macaulay, Managing Director, talks Laura Bouvet, our Knowledge Exchange Manager, through a multi-disciplinary future supported by diversity of individuals, tools and systems on farm. A multidisciplinary future with diversity at the heart.Eden Search strives be the best global partner delivering business critical insight, appointments and...
2024-11-0612 min
Agriculture 2050Episode 2 – The Role of Technology in Achieving Net ZeroWelcome to the second episode of Season Two of Agriculture 2050! This week we're joined by Dr Belinda Clarke OBE who is the Director of Agri-TechE and we discuss the emerging role technology has to play in achieving net zero, recent exciting technological advances, as well as the work that Belinda and her team get involved with at Agri-TechE.Useful LinksAgri-TechE– https://www.agri-tech-e.co.uk/REAP Conference 2024 – https://www.agri-tech-e.co.uk/civicrm/event/info/?reset=1&id=27254Climate Change Committee's 'Progress in reducing emissions: 2024 Report to Parliament' – https://www.theccc.org.uk/publication/progress-in-reducing-emissions-2024-repor...
2024-11-0526 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatThe Digitised AgronomistWhat does the future of agronomy look like? Belinda Clarke visited Stuart Hill, Technical Director at Hutchinsons, to find out.Hutchinsons is a leading agronomy company with over 200 arable and horticultural agronomists nationwide. Hutchinsons is focused on linking technology, knowledge and advice to deliver sustainable farming and does this through the Helix Farms. Helix trials and adapts technologies on farm, with insights used to inform and improve decisions and management of the overall business. Hutchinsons also offer their Omnia platform for digital farm management and TerraMap, producing the world's highest resolution soil maps.T...
2024-11-0408 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatNext-Generation Drone SystemsHear Aleks Kowalski, Project Director of Drone RePeat, in discussion with Belinda Clarke about the untapped potential for drone applications in agriculture.SEAD Artists are a consortium of experts using drone technology to revolutionise how landowners, environmentalists and conservationists manage the UK’s vast peatland carbon sink resources. The consortium have looked at deploying the capability of drones as part of a combination of services to survey, spray and seed for both environmental and agricultural benefits.the RePeat project aims to increasing awareness of the paludiculture and carbon gains possible through using robotics and data.
2024-11-0106 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatCommercialising Research in Sustainable BiostimulantsIn this episode we meet Bianca Forte and Cara Griffiths to chat about new developments in the biostimulant sector.Single molecule biostimulants like the one SugaROx is developing are novel in agri-tech. The sugar-based compound helps plants through signalling, to improve their carbon allocation, 'teaching the plant to be more efficient'. With this biostimulant, yield increases of up to 22% are possible. For every loaf of bread, 11% reduction in carbon emissions are possible. In this episode, we'll explore this technology, the future development pipeline of the tech, and the call to regulators to facilitate adoption.
2024-10-3012 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatDecarbonising Farm EnergyThis episode, we visit Future Biogas. Becky Wheeler, Head of Business Development, and Philipp Lukas, Managing Director, discuss the growth and future of anerobic digestion in agriculture.the anaerobic digestion industry has grown from a novelty in the UK to an established industry with engineering support, processes and experienced operators out in the field. Becky and Phillip discuss the diversification opportunities for UK farming - integrating AD crops into rotation to decarbonise the farm, and provide clean heat for industries stuggling to electrify because they need specificals of biomethane fuel.Future Biogas are...
2024-10-2801 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatMacro Trends on a Micro ScaleBelinda Clarke ventures out to the farm to meet Andrew Francis, Managing Director of Home Farm Nacton. Andrew has long been engaged with adopting innovation on farm and shares his thoughts on what has - or hasn't - worked, and what he wants to see on farm in the years ahead.Home Farm Nacton produces organic vegetables, red tractor certified and leaf marque crops in Suffolk. The farm is a patchwork of woodland, heath, grass and arable land and comprises 1,170 hectares on the historic Orwell Park Estate on the north bank of the Orwell estuary near...
2024-10-2506 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatImproving Yields Whilst Killing PathogensJames Millichap-Merrick, Co-Founder and CEO of Vitabeam discusses how developments in light technologies and research have enabled pathogen prevention and improving plant resillience and growth using photons.Vitabeam Ltd has developed a world-first, patented cocktail of light wavelengths. Deployed via the VQe MaxStrip, the LED light bar simultaneously kills bacteria and mould, and boosts plant yield. The VQe MaxStrip is chemical-free and non-UV, producing the safest and highest quality produce.This episode forms part of our Back to the Future project, for Agri-TechE's 10th birthday celebrations.Song: TVARI - Tokyo...
2024-10-2303 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatNon-Chemical Weed ControlWe're talking about the future of weed control on this episode. Listen to Andrew Diprose, CEO of RootWave and Director of Communities at Agri-TechE Becky Dodds talk through what's driving the change to non-chemical control, what options are out there and the technology RootWave are taking out to the field.RootWave kills weeds using electricity to give better weed control at a lower cost than chemical herbicides whilst protecting our health and the environment. Designed for vineyards, orchards and bush fruit – the RootWave eWeeder kills all weeds and their roots. eWeeding generates heat within the weed an...
2024-10-2109 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatESG and SustainabilityRichard Bonn, Aethr Associates features in this episode, sharing tips to address climate risk, reduce carbon footprint and boost resilience with Belinda Clarke - our Director.With the imperative to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change, decarbonisation has become a central focus for the industry.Emphasising the need for proactive adaptation, Aethr Associates underscores the importance of staying ahead of evolving legislation through robust carbon reporting frameworks. Their advisory service empowers businesses to adopt sustainable practices, reducing their impact on the environment, but not profitability. Aethr believe in a future where...
2024-10-1808 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatScaling Agricultural InnovationBhavnita (Bhav) Patel is a Sector Development Manager - Agri-Food and the Manufacturing Technology Centre. In this episode Communities Director Becky Dodds chats to Bhav about some of the barriers facing scale-ups in Agri-Tech, how we can de-risk adoption of technologies, and also some of the lessons learned from other industries that MTC work with that we could use in agriculture.The Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) develops and proves innovative manufacturing processes and technologies in an agile, low risk environment, in partnership with industry, academia and other institutions. The MTC’s areas of expertise are directly re...
2024-10-1617 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatIntegrating Innovation with Existing PracticesB-hive Managing Director Vidyanath (Vee) Gururajan joins Agri-TechE's Director of Communities Becky Dodds to take a look at the B-hive journey bringing technology from all disciplines to agriculture.The B-hive Team is made up of experienced science, engineering and project management professionals, supported by a commercialisation team, with in-depth knowledge and experience solving real day to day issues in the fresh produce and agricultural industry.A key component of B-hives ethos is collaboration. They have worked with many different businesses to create innovative solutions as well as with a number of...
2024-10-1411 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatFutureproofing for InnovationIn this episode Chris Burnett, Senior Associate at Birkett Long, joins Laura Bouvet, Knowledge Exchange Manager at Agri-TechE, to talk all things innovation.The firm has a long-term commitment to agriculture and our agriculture and estates solicitors are informed and proactive; they understand the demands and requirements placed on those operating in the rural sector. As a client you can expect a thorough understanding of rural issues, and to provide seamless advice on all aspects of your business. With the increasing use and application of technology within both our personal and working li...
2024-10-1107 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatCollaboration to Enable ChangeThis episode features Rob Gowers, Senior Lecturer At ARU Writtle with a focus on the MBA in Agribusiness.The newly formed merged entity of ANglia Ruskin University and Writtle University College will embody a blend of tradition and modernity. The rich heritage and expertise of Writtle University College will combine with the cutting-edge resources and facilities of Anglia Ruskin University, creating a vibrant hub of learning and discovery. The campuses of both institutions will serve as the foundation for a unified and collaborative environment, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose among students, faculty, and...
2024-10-0904 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatPutting Data to Work On-farmWe hear from Andrew Blenkiron, Managing Director of Elveden Estates. Andrew talks about how to get technology adopted on farm, making the most of the data you have, and what's been the gamechanger on farms over the past 10 years.Elveden is a 22,500 acre country estate, of which over 10,000 acres is farmland - largest ring-fenced arable farm in lowland Britain. The farm specialises in the production of vegetables especially potatoes, onions, carrots and parsnips which dominate their farming. Around 6% of the UK’s onions are grown at Elveden! They also grow cereals such as rye, barley and whea...
2024-10-0706 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatBe Inspired by SoilsLaura Bouvet, Agri-TechE's Knowledge Exchange Manager, speaks to Dan Evans in this episode of our Back to the Future project.Dan is is a Lecturer in Soil Formation at Cranfield University. He leads both fundamental and applied research on soil formation and the parent materials from which soil is formed. His work focuses on the interactions between parent materials and soils, how soil parent materials support soil ecosystem services, and the natural and anthropogenic threats to the parent material zone. He also studies how soil formation can be accelerated, such as the manufacturing of new soils...
2024-10-0405 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatAgri-Tech Corporate FinancingAgri-TechE Director Belinda Clarke chats to Jodi Bartin, CEO of Citicourt & Co. They discuss how the last few years have caused disruption to the financial services sector, and where the future of agri-tech finance could go.Citicourt & Co is a leader in providing a wide range of quality corporate finance advisory services, M&A advice and a full range of transactions. They provide sell-side M&A advisory and complex dual-transaction advisory services for clients who would benefit from either investment in or a merger/ sale of their businesses. They advise on the best...
2024-10-0215 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatMaking Data Driven DecisionsAgri-TechE Director Belinda Clarke interviews Megan Vasko, Programme Manager at AbacusBio.AbacusBio are international leaders in the application of science and technology in agriculture, horticulture, and aquaculture. They combine science and business expertise to grow clients’ revenue and profit. Their consultants work globally on industry-leading initiatives across the primary food supply chain, with specific skill-sets in biological and data science, production system economics, strategy and investment, and technology. Their global reach gives the company a technical and strategic view of a wide range of challenges facing primary food production.This episode forms part of...
2024-09-3010 min
Agri-TechE AgriChatCollaborative Research in AgricultureKnowledge Exchange Manage Laura Bouvet is joined by Roz Bird, Chief Executive of Norwich Research Park.Norwich Research Park is one of the 5 BBSRC Research and Innovation Campuses in the UK. It’s the only one in the UK with 4 research institutes, a university, and a hospital all on one single site. With strong research into grand challenges like food security and climate and a key focus on enterprise and community, the park is an ideal place for businesses to move to or collaborate with.This episode forms part of our Back to th...
2024-09-2709 min
Agri-TechE AgriChateDNA Biodiversity Monitoring DataIn this episode, Director of Commities Becky Dodds talks to Tom Ludwig of NatureMetrics - an Earthshot Prize Finalist in 2024.NatureMetrics is a world leader in delivering nature data and intelligence, deploying cutting-edge technology to generate biodiversity insights at scale using environmental DNA (eDNA), Earth Observation (EO) and advanced data science and AI. The Nature Intelligence Platform is transforming how businesses report their nature impact, bringing a scalable solution to biodiversity monitoring, equipping global businesses for new nature reporting commitments.This episode forms part of our Back to the Future project, for Agri-TechE's 10...
2024-09-2509 min
Cultivate Your FuturePlant pathologist, Laura Bouvet discusses innovation in agriculturePlant pathologist, Laura Bouvet is the Knowledge and Innovation Facilitator for Agri-TechE and works with farmers to support the implementation of new technologies. In this podcast Laura considers innovative practices in agriculture and horticulture and explores how to develop a career in agricultural technology.
2024-04-0818 min
Voices of the ValleyBelinda Clarke and the Many Ways Science Can Help Growers AdaptBelinda Clarke, Director of Agri-techE, joins Dennis Donohue and Candace Wilson on this week’s Voices of the Valley to share her knowledge about the many ways science works with growers to adapt and respond to environmental and political changes.
Clarke describes the work that Agri-techE does as creating “an innovation ecosystem for agtech bringing together growers and farmers, technology developers and researchers.”
Donohue, Wilson and Clarke touch on the different industries that are coming to the table to offer agricultural tools from space tech to biology. But tech solutions are nothing without the proper mindse...
2023-01-3141 min
Industrial Leadership PodcastInnovation within AgricultureThis week’s guest is Belinda Clarke, Director of Agri-TechE. In this episode we discuss the changing landscape of innovation in the agricultural & horticultural industry. Looking at the role of different technologies that support productivity, profitability and sustainability, and if these technologies are impacting the traditional methodology of farming.
Belinda also gives us an insight into where the idea for Agri-TechE first came from, and how they are working to make a difference, changing the different type of job roles that are available within the agricultural & horticultural industry to attract new and emerging talent.
2023-01-1130 min