Innovate UK Business Connect is running a programme to link UK agri-tech developers with opportunities in Australia, and applications to join the programme are due in by 27th October.

Australia’s agriculture sector is on track to be a $100 billion industry by 2030, creating a perfect launchpad for UK businesses to connect, collaborate and scale in a diverse and rapidly growing market. The Australian agri-tech and food-tech sectors are booming, with more than 2,500 enterprises, including 488 agri-tech start-ups. The industry has an incredible culture of partnerships and collaboration, with 15 agri-tech incubators or accelerators to support innovation.

Innovate UK’s Global Business Innovation Programme is a comprehensive initiative to help ambitious businesses to collaborate and explore new markets, accelerating business growth. The programme encompasses three phases: a 'get ready' preparation phase, a 10-day in-country visit focused on relevant agri-tech innovation, and an 'exploit the opportunity' workshop. Support will be available throughout from an Innovate UK Business Growth innovation and growth specialist.

Innovate UK is inviting applications from innovative companies actively developing new technologies and approaches that can drive efficient, sustainable, and profitable agriculture and food production systems for livestock, crop and horticultural sectors including in:

  • Regenerative agriculture including nutrient management, soil health, bio stimulants, integrated pest management, and cultivation techniques
  • Climate-smart agriculture including carbon monitoring, capture and storage, smart irrigation, resilient crops and livestock, GHG and enteric methane emissions reduction, and controlled environment agriculture
  • Robotics and automation systems for plant and animal health and welfare monitoring, management operations and harvesting operations
  • Remote and physical sensing technologies plus associated data processing and decision-making tools including AI to drive efficient resource use and productivity
  • Livestock breeding, health and nutrition
  • Plant breeding (including precision breeding), health and nutrition

Full details on the programme and how to apply to join this opportunity are at: Global Business Innovation Programme in Australia - Agri-Tech - Innovate UK Business Connect (ktn-uk.org)