The first year of the programme, run by Harper Adams University in partnership with Barclays Eagle Labs, brought together agri-tech and agri-food businesses from across the UK.
The fully-funded 10-week programme helped participants to take their work to the next level. They have gone on to secure sector awards for their work, forge new partnerships and refine their current business practices.
Dave Kilby, Founder and CEO of innovative data app development company Coreo, whose apps are used to build tools for surveying for ecological, agricultural and educational use, is an alumni of Cultivate 2.0 2021. He said: “I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this programme to anyone looking for a thought provoking and supportive dive into the fundamentals of getting an agri-tech business off the ground. Whatever stage you’re at, from idea to MVP, there’ll be something in Cultivate that will help your business grow.”
Applications are now open for this year’s programme, which begins on 4th May with an introductory event to enable those taking part to meet each other and get to know the guest lecturers. Applicants are requested to apply before 13th April.
In addition to the support from Harper Adams, participants will have access to the facilities and services of the UK-wide Eagle Labs network throughout the programme, which includes co-working and ‘makerspaces’ for rapid prototyping, with equipment including laser cutters, 3D printers and electronics stations, as well as exclusive access to community events.
Rebecca Payne, Head of the Department of Food, Land and Agri-Business at Harper Adams University, said: “The initial Cultivate programme was a fantastic success – hearing how our participating businesses were responding to the programme was a fascinating insight into each. We have used those insights to refine Cultivate even further for its second incarnation and are really pleased we are able to build on the success of last year and come back with an even better programme.”
Adam White, Barclays Head of Agriculture, added: “I’m pleased to be supporting Cultivate 2.0, in conjunction with Barclays Eagle Labs and Harper Adams University. There are opportunities for early-stage businesses to take their work to the next level for UK agriculture and Barclays expertise in the sector positions us well to support.”
For more information and to apply, go to Cultivate 2.0.
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