Retailer invites innovators to submit solutions that might help build more resilient, sustainable and productive food supply chains
The UK’s largest food retailer Tesco has opened applications for its annual Agri-Tech Challenge, which invites agri-tech innovators from around the world to submit solutions that can help farmers and suppliers build more resilient, sustainable and productive food supply chains.
The competition, which Tesco runs in partnership with innovation marketplace Leading Edge Only, was previously known as the Agri T-Jam.
It aims to identify promising technologies that could help address some of the biggest challenges facing agriculture, from animal health and welfare to emissions reduction, soil health, biodiversity, automation, crop losses, food waste and on-farm quality.
Winners will receive support including direct access to Tesco’s Sustainable Agriculture and Fisheries team, alongside fast-track introductions to relevant supplier partners.
“As the biggest customer of UK agriculture, we want to do all we can to support our farmers in providing affordable, healthy and sustainable food to our customers – this includes championing the latest agri-tech innovations,” said Natalie Smith, the retailer’s head of sustainable agriculture and fisheries.
“Through the Tesco Agri-tech Challenge, we want to find practical technologies that can make a difference on farm, whether that is improving soil health, supporting animal welfare, reducing food waste or helping suppliers become more resilient.
“By connecting innovators with Tesco and our supplier network, we can help promising solutions move closer to real-world impact.”
Innovation pathways
This year’s challenge will include two so-called innovation pathways, based on the readiness of entrants’ technologies.
Winners in one category deemed further from launch will receive specialist mentoring from a key Tesco supplier, as well as help to refine their innovation within the relevant industry.
Those regarded as closer to launch, meanwhile, will have the opportunity to trial their technology with one of Tesco’s supply chain partners.
Both winners will be guided through the process by members of Tesco’s team, with all shortlisted start-ups receiving expert feedback, industry insight and the opportunity to build relationships with Tesco, LEO and relevant supply chain partners.
“We are delighted to continue our partnership with Tesco as the Agri-tech Challenge enters its ninth year,” said Jayden Halliday, CEO of Leading Edge Only. “The new two-pathway model reflects the breadth of innovation we are now seeing across the agri-tech sector, from earlier-stage technologies with significant future potential to solutions that are ready to be tested in supply chains today.”
He added: “By tailoring support to the maturity of each technology, the Challenge can help Tesco and its suppliers engage earlier and more effectively with innovations that have the potential to strengthen resilience across the food system.”
