Applications open for global agtech start-ups to advance supply chain sustainability

The 2023 Tesco Agri T-Jam start-up pitch competition, now in its sixth year, is open for applications.

The competition, held in partnership with Leading Edge Only (LEO), is welcoming entries from agtech innovators with solutions to improve supply chain sustainability.

Entries are invited from now until 30 June from around the world, with start-ups selected by Tesco for fast-track introductions to its supplier network and a trial with one of the retailer’s supply chain partners.

Tesco is looking for technologies that address the following priority areas:

  • Reducing GHG emissions
  • Improving soil health & resilience
  • Supporting biodiversity
  • Improving water quality & water use
  • Improving crop health and reducing pesticides
  • Reducing crop losses and food waste
  • Improving animal health & welfare
  • Predictive farming

Commenting on the competition, Natalie Smith, head of sustainable agriculture at Tesco said: “We are delighted to be partnering with LEO for our sixth year of the Tesco Agri T-Jam. We are on the lookout for innovators who can help us build long-term resilience within our supply base by addressing key sustainability challenges.”

“This competition ties in closely with our core purpose of serving customers, communities and planet a little better every day. Our commitment to sustainability is core to our business so we’d encourage any agtech start-ups with a great idea or solution to get in touch and win the chance to partner with one of our long-term suppliers.”

Following an application and selection process, finalists will be invited to virtually present their technologies to the Tesco panel and a selected audience of investors and agribusinesses at the Tesco Agri T-Jam Pitch Day in September.

In what could be a game-changer for their business, a winner will be selected by the panel to be fast-tracked by Tesco to a potential trial with a relevant supply chain partner, also benefitting from direct feedback and mentoring by the Tesco Sustainable Agriculture team.

The winner will also have the opportunity to present on stage at the World Agri-Tech Innovation Summit taking place in London on 26-27 September, with its audience of over 900 international agribusiness leaders.

Scott Sharp, founder and CEO of Leading Edge Only, said: “The Tesco Agri T-Jam is a life-changing opportunity for agriculture technology startups to demonstrate their most innovative solutions in front of high-profile connections. For applicants who want to stand out, we are looking to understand how their innovation is suitable for the brief, what solution it provides, and how it will impact Tesco and its suppliers.

“We are delighted to be partnering with Tesco to deliver the competition and look forward to hearing from industry specialists across the globe with the virtual event in September!”

Entries close on 30 June. Full details, entry form and criteria at https://www.leadingedgeonly.com/organisation/tesco/tesco-agri-t-jam-2023

 

 

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