The brainchild of Bangor University’s M-SParc, Agri-Hack is designed to tackle some of the many challenges facing those in the agri sector across Wales.
The Agri-Hack team has been consulting farmers from the region, to see where the issues lie, and which ones they think could be solved. Several key challenges have been identified including artificial intelligence and calving, weed control, smart fencing and slurry spreading AI.
However, the competition is not limited to these areas. Anyone who can think of a challenge and present an alternative solution, ideally involving AI, that would be of real use to the sector are encouraged to enter.
The organisers are essentially looking for solutions: devices or ideas that could help with the above challenges through the use of AI, but should not recommend existing products.
Entrants (either a company or an individual) will be given 10 minutes to pitch their solution at an event on 1st March, from 1-4pm. Pitches do not need to involve an idea or product that is ready to go, but entrants should be able to explain clearly what their idea is, what impact it will have, and how much funding will be required in order to make it happen.
The best idea(s) will receive funding, meaning there is a real opportunity here to start a business based on the successful new idea or solution.
The Welsh Government has provided funding of £100,000 to share with the winners, so it is extremely important that your pitch outlines how much funding you require, and how you’ll make use of this.
A decision will be made as soon as possible on which idea will be taken forwards, and the winners invited for further discussion. M-Sparc will help to work through the practicalities of the winning solution, and how to fund the project. There will be support to take the idea forwards, including support to create a business plan.
For more information go to M-Sparc and to book your place to pitch your idea register on eventbrite.
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