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PATS, a Delft-based agri-tech startup, has secured €2.7 million in seed funding to enhance its AI-powered pest management solutions, aiming to replace insecticides with technology. The company plans to use the funds to develop its pest detection and intervention systems, expand internationally, and reduce reliance on chemical sprays with innovative tools like bat-inspired drones, targeting growers facing labour shortages and stricter pesticide regulations.

AI continues to find a home in the agriculture industry, as a partnership between an industry leader and a start-up will create a platform for developing sustainable and innovative crops.

Is South America’s Southern Cone an untapped market for agrifood innovation and investment?

Genomines, a French biotech start-up, has secured $45 million in Series A funding to advance its innovative method of extracting battery-grade nickel using genetically modified plants. This sustainable approach, which leverages hyperaccumulator plants to absorb metals from soil, presents a cleaner and faster alternative to traditional mining. However, the company's global expansion is challenged by diverse GMO regulations across countries, which could delay its deployment and increase compliance costs. Despite these regulatory hurdles, Genomines aims to transform global mineral supply chains, with plans to extend its technology to other critical metals.