Key Takeaways

• An AgTech open innovation program, NHarvestX 2026, is being launched to connect agricultural demands with startup technologies.
• The program includes collaboration between startups and NongHyup affiliates to develop feasible agricultural solutions.
• Selected startups will receive investment support and mentorship to enhance their commercial viability in the agri-food sector.

Innovation in Agriculture

Amid ongoing challenges in the agricultural sector, including climate change and an aging rural population, a new program called NHarvestX 2026 is set to foster innovation through startup collaboration. Initiated by Sopung Connect, this program aims to align agricultural needs with emerging technological solutions.

The initiative, part of the Nonghyup Agtech Youth Startup Campus, is designed to encourage hands-on problem-solving using startup technologies. Unlike traditional programs that mainly focus on idea proposals, NHarvestX engages startups in conducting Proofs of Concept (PoCs) alongside NH affiliates to assess the feasibility of their innovations.

This year, NHarvestX combines pre-demand projects from various NongHyup affiliates, including regional cooperatives and economic holdings. Key recruitment areas for participating startups include smart farming technologies, eco-friendly packaging innovations, production management automation, new distribution strategies, and product development.

Additionally, startups are encouraged to submit their own innovative proposals aimed at enhancing efficiency across the entire agriculture and agri-food value chain. This encompasses improving productivity, optimizing distribution, transitioning to sustainable practices, quality control, and expanding customer engagement.

The program plans to select approximately eight teams, both new and returning participants, with activities commencing with an inauguration ceremony at the end of June. Throughout the program, those teams will refine their PoC projects with input from NongHyup affiliates, moving towards actual implementation from July to December. Participants will benefit from regular mentoring, field trips, expert networking, investment consulting, and performance assessment sessions.

NHarvestX extends support beyond mere demonstration, offering pathways for investment opportunities through the Nonghyup Mutual Growth Innovation Fund. Startups demonstrating market viability through their collaborative efforts will be recommended for this funding. CEO Choi Kyung-hee emphasized the dual focus on addressing real agricultural challenges and leveraging startup innovations for mutual growth.

With ongoing efforts to discover and cultivate agri-food, climate tech, and regional innovation startups, Sopung Connect continues to expand its open innovation framework aimed at fostering growth in these vital sectors.

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