R&D in Agriculture

New crop varieties, precision farming, irrigation and farm robotics: agricultural R&D that solves real technical problems often qualifies.

Typical qualifying R&D

Examples of the work we see qualify in this sector. What matters is the technical uncertainty a project resolves, not the industry it sits in.

  1. 01

    Development of Advanced Crop Varieties

    Innovating new or improved crop varieties that offer better yields, resistance to diseases and pests, or tolerance to environmental stresses such as drought or extreme temperatures. This can include research into genetic modification or traditional breeding methods.

  2. 02

    Precision Agriculture Technologies

    Implementing technologies that enhance precision in farming practices. Projects can involve developing or refining GPS-guided equipment, drones for monitoring crop health, or IoT sensors for soil and weather conditions to optimise resource use and crop management.

  3. 03

    Innovative Irrigation Systems

    Creating or improving irrigation systems to increase water efficiency and crop yield. This includes developing smart irrigation technologies that adjust water delivery based on real-time soil moisture and weather data.

  4. 04

    Sustainable Farming Practices

    Researching and implementing sustainable farming techniques that reduce environmental impact. Projects may involve developing organic farming methods, creating sustainable pest control solutions, or exploring regenerative agriculture practices.

  5. 05

    Automation and Robotics in Farming

    Developing or integrating robotic systems and automated machinery to perform agricultural tasks. This can include robots for planting, weeding, and harvesting, or automated systems for monitoring and maintaining livestock.

  6. 06

    Enhanced Animal Health and Welfare Solutions

    Innovating new approaches to improve animal health and welfare. This can involve developing advanced veterinary treatments, creating better housing conditions, or using technology to monitor and manage livestock health.

  7. 07

    Optimised Nutrient Management

    Researching and developing new methods for managing soil nutrients more effectively. Projects may include creating precision fertilisation techniques, developing soil amendments, or using biological solutions to enhance soil fertility.

  8. 08

    Post-Harvest Technology Innovations

    Innovating technologies and methods to improve post-harvest handling and storage. This includes developing solutions to reduce spoilage, enhance packaging, or improve transportation logistics for agricultural products.

  9. 09

    Biological Pest and Disease Control

    Creating or improving biological control methods to manage pests and diseases in crops. This can involve developing biopesticides, enhancing integrated pest management systems, or using beneficial organisms for crop protection.

  10. 10

    Advanced Greenhouse and Controlled Environment Agriculture

    Developing technologies and methods for controlled environment agriculture, such as advanced greenhouse systems or vertical farming techniques. Projects may focus on optimising climate control, light management, or nutrient delivery systems to maximise productivity and resource efficiency.