The VINE

Good news — the VINE Connect application deadline has been extended! You now have until April 3, 2025 to apply for this unique opportunity to bring your agtech solution to life in California’s diverse farming regions. Through field demo workshops, a dedicated demo day, and strategic networking opportunities, VINE Connect helps agtech companies validate and scale their innovations with real-world impact. Developed by UCANR Innovate in partnership with Farmhand Ventures, this program connects promising technologies with the growers, processors, and investors who can help bring them to market. Don’t miss your chance — apply now: https://thevine.io

Verdi (Founded 2020, Vancouver, BC) provides an automated farm management platform that combines precision irrigation with targeted crop care. Verdi helps growers respond to real-time field conditions, improving resource efficiency in specialty crops by retrofitting existing infrastructure with IoT devices. Their approach focuses on boosting yields, reducing inputs, and supporting sustainable practices. Join us at our?VINE Connect Field Day?on April 10 to meet the Verdi Ag team and see a live demo of their on-farm automation technology. Farmers, agricultural researchers, technology developers—register here: https://lnkd.in/g6txAUXM

Our friends at THRIVE are looking for startups building a more sustainable future for ag. The 2025 Global Impact Challenge is open now—apply by May 25 for a chance to pitch in Silicon Valley and be considered for up to $1M in investments: https://lnkd.in/gYQK9TwT

VINE Connect?is an 8-week program built for startups with proven technologies looking to break into one of the world’s most important and complex farming markets. We've worked closely with the team at Farmhand Ventures as well as industry partners to structure a program that helps companies understand the unique context of California agriculture, build relationships with growers and ag stakeholders, and position their solutions for long-term success. Participants will engage in focused workshops, receive tailored one-on-one support, and take part in a dedicated field day that offers direct exposure to regional farming networks. Applications close March 28.?Learn more and apply:?https://thevine.io

Lumo (Founded 2021, Santa Rosa, CA) offers smart irrigation systems intended to optimize water use in specialty crops. Their platform uses IoT-enabled valves and data analytics to automate water management, helping growers conserve resources and achieve more precise irrigation. The system is well-suited for vineyards, orchards, and other specialized crop environments. Join us at our?next VINE Connect Field Day?on April 10 to learn more about Lumo’s approach to efficient irrigation. Farmers, agricultural researchers, technology developers, and anyone interested in agtech innovation are invited to attend. Register now: https://lnkd.in/g6txAUXM

Ag-Bee (Founded 2019, Temecula, CA) delivers aerial drone technology for precision crop monitoring and targeted application. By leveraging advanced sensors and autonomous drone systems, Ag-Bee enhances field scouting, reduces labor demands, and allows for precise, on-demand crop protection. Their platform aims to lower resource use and improve overall productivity across diverse agricultural operations. You're invited! Join us at our?VINE Connect Field Day?on April 10 to meet the Ag-Bee team and see a live demonstration of their drone solutions. Register here: https://lnkd.in/g6txAUXM

Apply now! VINE Connect applications are now open through March 28, 2025, providing agtech companies with a direct pathway to scale their technologies in California's diverse farming regions. Developed by UCANR Innovate in partnership with Farmhand Ventures, this program bridges the gap between promising solutions and real-world implementation. Participants will gain access to business development workshops, a dedicated demo day to showcase innovations, and targeted networking with key players in California agriculture. Selected companies may also qualify for innovation grants to accelerate market adoption. Ready to break into California agriculture? Submit your application today: https://thevine.io?

Join us for #AgDay2025 in #Sacramento this Wednesday, March 19. Stop by between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. and visit California 4-H, the UC Master Gardener program, The VINE, and more.

Verdant Robotics (Founded 2018, Hayward, CA) develops autonomous robotic systems designed for precision crop management. Their technology integrates advanced AI and computer vision to perform targeted weeding, thinning, and nutrient application with high accuracy. The company's flagship product, "SharpShooter," is currently deployed in high-value specialty crops, including carrots and orchards. SharpShooter addresses labor challenges, reduces the need for chemical inputs, and promotes resource efficiency, supporting more sustainable farming practices. Join us at our next VINE Connect Field Day on April 10 in Ventura to meet the Verdant Robotics team and witness a live demonstration. Farmers, investors, researchers, technology developers, and anyone interested in agtech innovation are encouraged to attend. Register here: https://lnkd.in/g6txAUXM

Five innovative #agtech startups have been selected for the VINE Connect Program, which will bridge the gap between cutting-edge agricultural tech and growers. This initiative is set to fast-track the adoption of practical, farm-ready solutions! he program, run by UCANR Innovate, Farmhand Ventures, and UC Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR), will host a public field day on April 10 at the UC Hansen Agricultural Research and Extension Center in Camarillo, where these companies will demonstrate their technologies on farm. ?? bit.ly/4bwJBwl