Changing Landscape for Ag Inputs
2025 Challenges
Growers are facing irregular weather patterns and increasing incidents of drought, flooding, and infestations.
Natural pollinators continue to face population declines due to ag chemicals, disease, and loss of natural habitat.
Labor supply shortages across the food industry incentivize the adoption of automated farming systems.
Consumers seek sustainability down to the farm when purchasing food, demanding traceability.
News & Regulation Landscape
Exacerbated by climate shifts, drough tconditions are worsening and reached unprecedented highs in 2024*.
Pollinator populations are in decline globally, threatening crops dependent on them. In 2024, 22 states introduced legislation to protect pollinators in ways such as decreasing use of toxic pesticides.
U.S. immigration reform presents challenges for the food and ag labor supply, especially upstream and midstream.
Compliance with FSMA (Food Safety Modernization Act) 204 regulations has traceability and standardized data (as per GS1 protocols) top-of-mind for companies.
*US Drought Monitor
AgTech Venture Funding
Leading the way through Productivity and Profitability
Emerging Tech Growth Areas
Ag biologicals are reaching greater efficiency through enabling technologies like encapsulation systems that increase nutrient delivery and uptake.
Ag biologicals are reaching greater efficiency through enabling technologies like encapsulation systems that increase nutrient delivery and uptake.
Pollination technologies are becoming more sophisticated through the integration of AI to optimize colony health and pollination efficiency.
Precision technologies work together to optimize the conditions for growth – including sensors to coordinate crop protection and irrigation activities.
2024 VC Dollars Rising Despite Slow Down in AgTech Overall
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Disclaimer
Rabobank is not acting as a broker or dealer and no information in this document is intended to be an endorsement of any startup or a recommendation by Rabobank as to the advisability of entering into any transaction or investment. Nothing in this document is intended to constitute an offer or solicitation to purchase or invest in securities.
Sources: Pitchbook data