On the 31st July we were thrilled to host a unique workshop held by Farmers 2 Founders and facilitated by the Food and Agribusiness Network (FAN).
Over 35 people attended including farmers, facilitators, inventors and people just interested in the role technology can play in food production. From artificial intelligence and robotics experts to locals making cutting edge livestock management hardware. Small crops to grain and avocados, beef to chickens and hemp to hydrogen motors. What an incredible diversity of local (and non-local) talent exists within this sphere. We had individuals and businesses at all stages of their life cycle plus plenty of little ideas that could become big disruptors showing us that creativity and innovation is a strong driving force in agriculture.
While there are no limits to the reach that technology can have the day was less about the latest gadget to make crops grow quicker and more about how we can use technology to bridge the divide between growers and consumers. How transparency and short supply chains are driving innovation and how meeting your market involves knowing your market.
One thing that really stood out is that tech can play a pivotal role in shaping the regenerative agriculture systems that we so desperately need to foster. Yes, Tech has been involved in the rapid rise of ‘modern’ (read chemical based) agricultural systems at the expense of farming methods that are functioning cycles working as and within natural systems. But imagine if you could harness generations of ‘old school’ knowledge with the aid of Augmented Reality technology. Information in real time – moon cycles. moisture levels, contour lines, animal behaviour, insect activity, weather patterns, hydrology, plant nutrition needs, animal nutrition needs, seasonality – all that and more. The applications are limitless and now more than ever individuals and small businesses can adopt and develop technology. We believe that the new era of agriculture will not be based on inputs it will be based on knowledge – and access to knowledge. Technology can be the gateway.
And, this is just the beginning. We are now working on AgVention – not your average field day. Save the date of Friday 25th October. For anyone with an interest in food, farming and the future.
