The Future of Agriculture: Innovations and Challenges in 2026

The Most Talked-About Start-ups of 2025

Agricultural technology is rapidly evolving, with breakthroughs such as AI-designed crop varieties, RNA crop protection, virtual fencing, laser soil scanners, and the innovative use of extremophile microbes making waves in the industry. In 2025, these agtech start-ups gained attention for addressing pressing farming issues and securing vital partnerships and funding.

State of VC in Agtech: Will 2026 Be the Year Funding Rebounds?

The venture capital landscape in agtech saw a decline in 2025, with funding falling to $4.799 billion across 735 deals. Despite the downturn, industry experts are optimistic that 2026 could mark a new beginning, especially with the focus shifting towards AI and robotics.

While 2025 was characterized by challenges such as suppressed exits and a tougher startup environment, venture capitalists are hopeful for a renaissance in agtech funding.

BASF’s Acquisition of AgBiTech: A New Chapter in Biocontrol

Starting 2026 on a strong note, BASF Agricultural Solutions has acquired AgBiTech, a biological insect control company, to enhance its capabilities in the Brazilian market. This acquisition reflects BASF’s strategy to spin-off parts of its agriculture business by 2027.

Trade Chaos: How Tariff Turmoil Affects Farmers

U.S. trade policies are creating financial uncertainty for farmers. Growers from various states express their concerns about the impact of tariffs on their operations and margins as they prepare for the 2026 growing season.

CES 2026: Innovations in Agricultural Technology

At CES 2026, companies such as Kubota and Bobcat showcased cutting-edge AI advancements and agricultural technology. With the introduction of autonomous farming machines, the industry is moving towards greater efficiency.

AI Meets Plant Breeding

A new partnership between Heritable Agriculture and KWS is focused on advancing genetic improvements in feed crops using AI, promising nutritional benefits and sustainability gains in the agricultural supply chain.

2026 Outlook for Agriculture

The agricultural industry faces numerous challenges, including economic pressures, trade disputes, and slow tech adoption. Despite these difficulties, there are opportunities for innovation aimed at reducing health crises and food waste.

Investing in Soil Health: The First Thirty’s Vision

Investor Naeem Lakhani is pioneering an innovative approach: improving human health by boosting soil health. His fund, The First Thirty, is raising €100m to back companies focused on linking soil biology and food quality to human health.

The EU-Mercosur Trade Deal: Implications for European Agriculture

With EU governments providing a provisional green light to the EU-Mercosur trade deal, the implications for European agriculture are significant. Farmers are concerned about competition from lower-standard South American imports.

Brazil’s Agribusiness in 2026

Despite macroeconomic challenges, Brazil’s agricultural sector exhibits resilience, with expectations for record production in key commodities. However, issues such as trade uncertainty and low commodity prices will continue to shape the landscape.