In an era where agtech is rapidly evolving, the demand for specialized consulting services is at an all-time high. Entrepreneurs entering the sector face numerous challenges, from product validation to navigating complex market landscapes. Recognizing this growing need, a group of independent consultants has come together to form the AgTech Advisory Collective, a unique collaboration aimed at providing comprehensive support to startups and corporates alike.
The AgTech Advisory Collective comprises seasoned professionals from various backgrounds within the agricultural technology sector. Key members include Patrick Honcoop of AgTech-Pro, Alan Fetters from AGceleration Advisory, Alejo Valverde Lyons of AVL, Maxence Guillaumot from AgTech Market in France, Michael Macalino of Recode Ventures in Australia, and Rhishi Pethe of Metal Dog Labs in the U.S. This diverse group brings a wealth of experience and a vast network of connections that can significantly benefit companies navigating the complexities of the agtech landscape.
Honcoop emphasizes that the collective is “not your typical consulting firm.” Each member has extensive experience in farming and agtech, enabling them to offer tailored advice that is grounded in real-world knowledge. This experience is particularly valuable when assisting companies with their go-to-market strategies, which can often be fraught with challenges. Many businesses underestimate the intricacies involved in entering new regions and lack the local knowledge necessary for success. The collective aims to bridge this gap by providing access to local expertise and networks, thus enhancing the chances of successful market entry.
The flexibility of hiring consultants through the collective allows startups to tap into a broad range of skills and experiences without the overhead of full-time employees. This model not only reduces the risk of costly missteps but also equips both startups and corporates with a holistic view of the agtech landscape. For corporates and investors, the collective offers a neutral perspective that can challenge internal biases and foster more informed decision-making.
While each member will continue to manage their individual projects, the collaborative nature of the AgTech Advisory Collective allows for the sharing of insights and resources. Honcoop highlights the importance of ensuring that new members add unique value to the group, particularly in areas where expertise is currently lacking, such as biological inputs. The collective also plans to establish strategic alliances with organizations like Upstream Ag, Verdant Partners, and Schultz Collaborative to further enhance its capabilities.
The focus of the AgTech Advisory Collective extends beyond immediate projects; the group aims to build long-term partnerships with clients. Honcoop notes that the collective can support companies throughout their entire journey, from early-stage product-market fit and validation to commercial strategy and business development. This comprehensive approach is particularly beneficial for agrifood corporates seeking answers to complex questions about technology integration and market dynamics.
The collective’s collaborative model is advantageous when engaging with larger corporates, which often prefer to work with established groups rather than individual consultants. By presenting a united front, the AgTech Advisory Collective can offer global coverage and a robust network, facilitating market research, innovation scouting, and strategic planning.
As the agtech sector continues to expand, the formation of the AgTech Advisory Collective represents a significant step towards providing the support that startups and corporates need to thrive. By leveraging a diverse range of expertise and fostering long-term relationships, this group aims to enhance the overall success of the agtech ecosystem, ultimately driving innovation and growth in the agricultural industry.