What's Happening?
TRIC Robotics plans to expand its fleet of autonomous robots equipped with UV-C light and bug vacuums across California's strawberry fields. The company, founded by Dr. Adam Stager and Vishnu Somasundaram, aims to increase its fleet from nine to 40-50 units following a $5.5 million seed funding round led by Version One Ventures. The robots use UV-C light to damage the DNA of pathogens, effectively controlling fungal diseases and pests without chemicals. This expansion targets strawberry farms in Oxnard and Watsonville, offering a service model that requires no upfront investment from farmers.
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Why It's Important?
TRIC Robotics' expansion represents a shift towards sustainable agriculture by reducing chemical use and labor dependency in strawberry farming, a crop known for high pesticide application. The service model lowers barriers for farmers, potentially increasing adoption of robotic technology in agriculture. This innovation could lead to healthier crops, reduced environmental impact, and improved farm profitability. The company's approach highlights the growing role of robotics in transforming traditional farming practices and addressing labor shortages.
What's Next?
With the new funding, TRIC Robotics plans to scale its operations across California's strawberry regions, enhancing its service offerings and adding new capabilities like beneficial insect application. The company aims to become a leader in agricultural robotics, focusing on disease control and pest management. As the fleet expands, TRIC Robotics will continue to refine its technology and explore additional applications in other crops, potentially broadening its market reach and impact.
