August 25, 2020 @ 10:00 – 11:00 AM PST: Agtech Startups in the Time of COVID-19

The events of the past few months have turned the startup world on its head. As venture capitalists shift their efforts to supporting their portfolio companies during these challenging times, funds are signaling a pullback in funding and we have seen a significant decrease in valuations. The ability of agtech startups to weather the storm depends in part on grower’s willingness to continue investing in technology; given the restrictions in movement and social distancing guidelines, startups could also provide solutions to come of the largest challenges in our food systems today. How have agtech investors responded to current events? Where are startups thriving? How can agtech startups position themselves for the coming “new normal”?

August 26, 2020 @ 10:00 – 11:00 AM PST: Using Technology to Build Resiliency in our Food Systems

As spring gives way to summer, and summer eventually to fall, the agriculture machines of North America hum to life – but things are looking much different this growing season. The blow to our food systems is unclear – with the potential re-emergence of COVID-19 in the fall, the full impact cannot yet be measured. Some farmers, especially those producing staple crops, may see less of a disruption as many food producers at scale have already shifted to semi-automated systems. Others, including specialty crops that rely on human labor, may see a bigger shift. However, opportunities present themselves with these ongoing challenges; as growers implement new technologies to combat COVID-19, the pathway for permanent technology adoption exists. How are growers using technology to overcome new challenges? Which agtech sectors are experiencing the largest growth? Where do challenges still exist for growers? Join our experts for a roundtable discussion on the impact of COVID-19 on our food systems and ways in which technology can provide solutions.