Pitch2Grow, was the UNE’s SMART Region Incubator’s first ever AgTech Virtual Pitch. The virtual event gave the global community a chance to discover and experience some of the latest agtech innovations created in regional Australia, without leaving home.
Lou Conway, Director of the UNE SRI said, ‘I am delighted to announce that two SRI founders will receive $7000 each to grow their international market’. ‘A rigorous judging process with esteemed judges from 12 countries has selected the founder of Optiweigh, Bill Mitchell, and the founder of Smart Shepherd, Dave Rubie for this funding to take their startups to the next level’.
The two winning startups were able to show judges how they enable primary producers to capture real-time data to make better decisions. Optiweigh allows farmers to increase the efficiency of beef production by providing liveweight information direct from the paddock. Smart Shepherd uses bluetooth technology to unlock the genetic potential of farmers’ herds or flocks through matching maternal pedigree. Both these startups show how a focus on producers can create value on the farm and in the market.
‘I would like to congratulate Bill and Dave, and all the founders who are leading the way in creating new enterprises in regional NSW. They show courage and determination in bringing ideas to market, especially now’, said Lou Conway.
Many of the judges were excited by how the founders addressed real challenges for agriculture. This event has also attracted great community and industry engagement in Australia and overseas.
The SRI will continue to support founders to meet with investors, customers and partners to build value for new enterprises in our region. This program is supported by the Commonwealth Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources and NSW Government.
For more information about the UNE SRI, please go to www.smartri.com.au
Dave Rubie, Smart Shepherd.
