Ag101: Your gateway to the agricultural industry
Agri-TechE 
“Ag101 is an introduction to agriculture and horticulture for anyone new to the industry, thinking about tapping into this market, or looking to expand their understanding.
We’ll take you through who to engage with, how decisions are made, and the intricacies of the supply chain – to help you get the most from this dynamic sphere!”
Laura Bouvet, Knowledge Exchange Manager, Agri-TechE
In today’s world, where the demand for sustainable, high-quality produce is constantly increasing, agriculture and horticulture remain the backbone of the global food supply chain. Yet, this vital industry faces significant challenges – ranging from labour shortages to climate change and disruptions in the supply chain.
Understanding these challenges and the context in which they arise is important for anyone working in agriculture. That’s where Ag101 comes in.
Taking place in Cambridge on 17 September 2024, Ag101 is a whole day event tailored for tech innovators, scientists, and researchers exploring opportunities in the sector, professionals in ag-related companies who are new to the industry, and those looking to deepen their understanding of this diverse field. The event offers the knowledge and connections needed to navigate this industry effectively.
Why Attend Ag101?
Gain practical, actionable insights: At Ag101, you’ll gain a clearer understanding of the real issues faced on-farm, such as how farmers take advice, the kinds of challenges they encounter, and the innovative solutions they adopt. This insight is invaluable for anyone in the agricultural supply chain, from tech developers to HR and finance professionals, who need to understand the bigger picture of the industry they support.
Connect with key players across the industry: Farmers are at the heart of agriculture, but they don’t work alone. The agricultural industry relies on a network of relationships that guide farmers in their decision-making. By understanding these relationships, you can better tailor your approaches to connect with the right people. This event offers a rare chance to hear directly from those involved in the day-to-day business of farming, providing personal insights that are often difficult to access.
Navigate the agricultural supply chain: Agriculture isn’t just about what happens on the farm. It’s the first stage in a complex global supply chain that includes processing, manufacturing, packaging, and transport before food reaches the consumer. At Ag101, you’ll explore these interconnected stages, gaining insights into how each segment impacts the others and where innovation could provide solutions.
Explore funding opportunities: Innovation requires financial backing, and navigating the various funding streams can be daunting. At Ag101, you’ll receive practical advice on the available funding options, from early-stage grants to commercialisation support.
“To turn innovative ideas into commercial realities requires financial support, yet many innovators are unaware of the funding streams available at the crucial early stages. Navigating these options and determining eligibility can be challenging for those new to the sector.
That’s why at Innovate UK, we support events like Ag101. They enable us to connect with the next generation of innovators and share information about the various funding mechanisms, including grant aid, that we offer to support their innovative proposals.”
Calum will be speaking at Ag101: The commercial journey of solutions onto a farm.
Who Should Attend?
- Researchers & Scientists
For researchers who want to better understand how their work impacts agriculture, Ag101 is your gateway. The event helps you understand the sector’s unique challenges and opportunities, ensuring you can effectively progress, pitch and position your innovative research.
- Tech companies looking to market themselves in agriculture
If you have a validated technology or are a business eyeing agriculture as a growth market, Ag101 provides a roadmap to navigate the industry’s complexities. Learn who to speak to, what to consider, and how to make your entry successful.
- Non-agricultural professionals in ag-focused roles
Those working in non-ag roles within agricultural organisations, such as HR or finance, will find Ag101 useful as it breaks down the sector’s structure, introduces you to key players and helping you better understand your role within it.
- Individuals New-to-Agriculture
If you’re considering a career in agriculture or simply want to learn more about the industry, Ag101 offers a comprehensive introduction. The event covers the essentials about who and what happens in the agri-food supply chain, making it accessible to those with limited prior knowledge.
Whether you’re new to agriculture or looking to deepen your understanding, Ag101 is your gateway to success in this growing industry. Book here.
Reflections from an Ag101 participant:
“Ag101 was my first introduction to the agriculture sector, and I didn’t know where to begin. The event was brilliantly organised, connecting innovators like me with farmers, agronomists, and key contacts.
For example, I ended up parking in the wrong car park and met James Fortune from VCS (Vegetable Consultancy Services), a speaker at Ag101. We started chatting, and that connection proved invaluable; James introduced me to key contacts and even discussed potential collaborations. Fast forward a year… last week James received his first Guanoboost delivery for use in carrot trials alongside other natural/organic products. This connection has been incredibly helpful in moving forward with trials that will provide the scientific evidence needed to prove that our product works in the UK.
One key tip for new attendees: show genuine interest in others first and listen to people – the art of networking! Don’t try to sell in the first two minutes!
I learned so much from the speakers – everything they discussed resonated with me, even if I didn’t initially think it would impact my business. Come with an open mind, let things flow, and you’ll find a reason to speak to everyone in the room.
Ag101 is a fantastic starting point – be positive, don’t be shy, and make the most of it!”
Secure your place today by registering for Ag101 on our events page.
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