The 10 Agtechs Promising to Transform the Brazilian Agribusiness in 2024

Date:02-05-2024

At the beginning of each year, I make it a point to reflect on the past and outline plans. Now, as the CEO of Ciarama Máquinas, a John Deere dealership in Mato Grosso do Sul, this tradition continues.

This marks the fourth consecutive year of sharing my insights, and I am pleased to witness how some Agtechs, previously mentioned in articles, not only met but exceeded my expectations in terms of revenue, growth, and investment attraction. Companies such as GoFlux, Traive, Terra Magna, Seedz, Krilltech, Bart Digital, Openeen, Aliare, among others, have been making headlines.

In 2024, immersed in a more digital and interconnected agricultural era, I am once again venturing to choose the 10 Agtechs that I believe will stand out. 

My criteria are straightforward: Product innovation, Effective solutions to challenges faced by farmers/ranchers, The ease of adopting in  the process (before, during, or after the farm gate), and the talent of the people involved in management.

This text aims to provide a deeper insight into these companies, allowing all of us, like myself, to monitor their growth and achievements throughout 2024.

The year 2024 is shaping up to be very challenging for Brazilian agribusiness. In addition to macroeconomic issues, global stock/consumption dynamics remain historically high, putting pressure on product prices in benchmark exchanges. It promises to be another year of globally pressured quotes for grains and raw materials, impacting commodity prices and reducing farmer profitability. This scenario prompts them to reassess their investments and appetite for technology.

According to the Agfunder investment report for Latin America in 2023, Brazil leads the Latin American agrifoodtech startup market, holding almost 50% of the share. The main investment theses for 2024 are Agfintechs, Biologics, Marketplaces, and Climatechs, areas where I will focus my selections.

Agtechs face diverse challenges, with difficulty accessing capital in the early stages and scaling the business, as well as finding qualified professionals, especially in the face of major technological trends such as Artificial Intelligence, IoT, automation, digitization, machine learning, and increased connectivity.

Despite cutting-edge technologies pointing to the future of agriculture, Brazil still faces challenges such as the low presence of telecommunications in rural areas and the slow rollout of the 5G network. A strong trend worth noting is the use of sustainable technologies.

While technology offers opportunities to optimize agricultural production, its rapid evolution can pose challenges for some farmers. The implementation of technologies like precision farming, artificial intelligence, and automation requires significant investments and proper training. Farmers who cannot keep up with these changes may face difficulties in efficiently managing their operations.

Understanding the context in which farmers are operating is the great challenge for these Agtechs. 

Taking these aspects into account, I share my vision on the 10 Agtechs that will stand out in 2024."

The SciCrop, founded in 2015 by José Damico and Renato Ferraz, emerges as a beacon at the intersection of data science, technology, and agribusiness. With a solid background gained from major financial institutions in Brazil, the founders identified significant growth potential when analyzing the agribusiness sector. It was from this insight that they decided to explore how artificial intelligence, Big Data, algorithms, and predictability could drive digital transformation in the field.

In a scenario where data analysis becomes vital, SciCrop stands out for its expertise in data integration. No data analysis is possible without access to and reliability in information, and the company focuses on overcoming one of the major challenges faced by organizations: the lack of availability and reliability of data.

The key differentiator of SciCrop lies in data integration, providing companies with the consolidation of information on a single API bus. This approach not only facilitates data accessibility but also allows the initiation of new systems under a modern and efficient architecture. The company excels in offering its expertise in unifying critical data for analytics, facilitating the storage, processing, and visualization of this information.

In the perspective of digital transformation, the ability to integrate all data is at the heart of the process. By playing this essential role, SciCrop significantly contributes to efficiency in time use and more informed decision-making. After all, true digital transformation is not just about adopting advanced technologies but using data intelligently to boost efficiency and effectiveness in operations.

In a world where data analysis is the new standard, SciCrop positions itself as a leader that not only understands the importance of data but also provides concrete solutions to challenges faced by companies in agribusiness. By creatively combining data science and technology, SciCrop is shaping the future of Brazilian agribusiness.

Grandeo, a company specializing in analytical technology, stands out as a protagonist in the application of advanced Decision Agriculture concepts to generate insights directly in the field. Grandeo's approach involves soil analysis, leaf analysis, agrochemicals, fertilizers, and crop vigor assessment, primarily targeted at markets for grain cultivation, sugarcane, vegetables, and others.

A notable innovation from Grandeo is the development of a portable device utilizing Near-Infrared (NIR) technology to instantly assess various indicators at all stages of a crop. In my opinion, this technology represents a significant milestone as it meets analytical demands across different segments, including soils, fertilizers, grains, and agrochemicals, among others.

NIR technology stands out for its ability to perform quick and non-destructive analyses. This method contributes to reducing laboratory costs as it eliminates the need for chemical reagents or other inputs. Additionally, the portability of the equipment enables on-site analyses, optimizing time and streamlining the decision-making process.

In a simplified manner, NIR conducts an analysis based on the vibration level of the chemical bond in the sample molecules. The energy projected onto the sample identifies the type of chemical bond, the quantity, and the type of elements present. For soybeans, for instance, it is possible to quantify moisture content, protein, fat, mineral matter, among other indicators. The equipment can be calibrated to address various other crops and indicators.

The versatility of NIR technology extends beyond composition analysis to product classification. It is possible to determine if a seed belongs to a specific variety, assess sugarcane quality in the field before harvest, verify nutrient levels in fertilizers, and analyze the authenticity of agrochemicals, avoiding risks of counterfeiting or deviations from agreed-upon levels.

An additional point worth highlighting is the leadership of Grandeo by Leonardo Sologuren, a dedicated entrepreneur and profound connoisseur of the Brazilian agribusiness. His strategic vision and commitment drive Grandeo to play a pivotal role in the sector's transformation, establishing itself as a benchmark in analytical technology in agribusiness.

Over time, I have had the opportunity to discuss Agrotoken in previous articles, but never highlighted it as one of the main innovations of the year. However, in 2024, faced with the growing need for streamlining, liquidity, and more discerning decision-making in the agricultural trading process, I firmly believe that Agrotoken is poised to become a protagonist in the Brazilian scenario.

This Agtech, originating from Argentina, has recently received significant investments from giants such as Visa and Bunge. Its goal is clear and ambitious: to be the global pioneer in the tokenization of agricultural commodities, establishing an efficient, secure, and reliable ecosystem that transforms agricultural production into traceable digital assets.

The Agrotokens, created by this innovative platform, enable commercial and financial transactions backed directly by grains. Their value is tied to the prices of key commodities such as soybeans, corn, and wheat. This approach offers simplicity and flexibility, allowing farmers to exchange their production when, where, and in the desired quantity. Moreover, the use of blockchain technology ensures that these transactions are simple, fast, digital, and, above all, secure.

The adoption of Agrotokens represents a revolution for farmers, opening a wide range of possibilities and benefits. The tokenization process of grains occurs 100% online, with Agrotokens being deposited directly into the farmer's wallet. From there, they can be used via their mobile phone or computer, exchanging their production for seeds, vehicles, machinery, fuel, services, and even as collateral for obtaining loans.

This new ecosystem not only simplifies commercial transactions with agricultural commodities but also ensures security and cost reduction. Agrotokens emerge as a new stable and guaranteed currency, becoming a viable alternative anywhere in the world. This provides farmers with ease in transactions and financing, representing a significant step towards modernization and efficiency in Brazilian agribusiness.

In 2024, Agrotoken is not just a technological innovation; it is a promising tool that is about to revolutionize how farmers conduct their business, making the agricultural trading process more efficient, secure, and globally accessible.

When I compiled my list of innovative companies, I initially hesitated to include Superbac, considering it not as a startup but rather as a mature and established company. However, upon recognizing its presence in the Agtech landscape, I couldn't help but acknowledge this company as one of the most revolutionary and innovative ones I've had the pleasure of knowing.

My admiration for founder Luiz Chacon and former vice-president Mozart Fogaça grew as I delved deeper into Superbac. In 2019, while serving as CEO of Agro100, I had direct contact with this company when we initiated our partnership with the organic fertilizer. The product's leadership and future vision, under the guidance of Rodrigo Bussadori, allowed it to exponentially grow in our sales, leading us to create a proprietary brand.

Superbac's technology addresses two crucial needs in the Brazilian agricultural scenario. In a country highly dependent on fertilizer imports and susceptible to price fluctuations, Superbac offers a solution that not only improves the soil but also significantly reduces dependence on these imports. With half of the raw materials being produced internally, the company contributes to Brazil's self-sufficiency in this strategic sector.

The uniqueness of Superbac lies in the combination of basic elements with biotechnology, making its product a true innovation in the Brazilian landscape. It's not just an organic fertilizer but a solution that incorporates the intelligence of bacteria to promote nutritional balance in plants.

Through its robust research and development structure, Superbac establishes itself as a leader in bio innovation, excelling in the sustainable and economically viable replacement of production processes. The bacteria's action promotes an exponential improvement in industry and field productivity while contributing to the planet's regeneration.

The Smartbac Technology is Superbac's trademark, featuring intelligent bacteria operating in three main areas. In agriculture, the company offers biotechnological solutions to promote nutritional balance in small and large crop plants. In the biological stage of effluent treatment plants, Superbac enhances contaminant degradation capacity, optimizing system efficiency. Additionally, the company develops solutions for the degradation of petroleum-derived and organochlorine waste, prioritizing environmentally friendly options free of toxic byproducts.

Superbac not only transforms Brazilian agriculture but also plays an essential role in building a more sustainable and balanced future. Its involvement spans key sectors, contributing to food security, waste management, and environmental preservation. Superbac is not just an innovative company; it is a strategic partner on the path to a more sustainable and efficient agribusiness.

Proof of this is the recent launch of two plant protection products: a bionematicide with a blend of three Bacillus strains and a fungicide, both with the differentiator that farmers seek—longer shelf life, no need for refrigeration, and consistent results. With this, in the agricultural sector, Superbac becomes a super player with a presence in plant nutrition, soil regeneration, and now plant protection.      

In my quest for innovations and advancements in the Brazilian business landscape, a company that initially went unnoticed on my list now stands out in all my explorations across the country. I am referring to Agrotools, an agtech that has demonstrated remarkable agility in repositioning its products and solutions.

My first impression of Agrotools was that it was just another ERP focused on farmers. However, over the years, the company underwent a notable transformation, expanding its scope and reach. Currently, it stands out as an agtech that not only aims to meet the needs of farmers but also understands the interconnection with other companies related to the agricultural sector, developing connected solutions for each of them.

After nearly a decade since its foundation, Agrotools has established itself as a geographic platform that has become a valuable source of information. The company aggregates the largest agribusiness databases and has a specialized team to interpret, analyze, and simplify this information for its users.

 In practice, the tools offered by Agrotools enable all participants in the agribusiness chain to understand what is happening with suppliers and customers scattered across rural territories, bridging the gap between rural environments and corporate enterprises, and connecting territories to businesses.

With coverage spanning over 200 million hectares, Agrotools can provide accurate information about irregular plantations in indigenous or permanently preserved areas. This means that traders and marketers have the necessary tools to showcase to the world the sustainability and dynamics of Brazilian agriculture. 

Other standout solutions include:

Territory risk analysis: Customer prospecting, Customer qualification, Boundary and guarantee establishment, Concession, subscription, and monitoring, Settlement and renewal

Supply chain management

Solutions for Rural Insurance and agribusiness sales to better manage your client portfolio.

It's no surprise that, according to Startse, Agrotools is pointed out as the only Brazilian agtech candidate to achieve unicorn status in 2024. This projection reflects not only the company's success in adapting to market needs but also its growing relevance in the global technology and innovation landscape in agribusiness. Agrotools, with its comprehensive vision and connected solutions, is paving a promising path toward the top of the Brazilian startup ecosystem.

The advancement of nanotechnology in today's context is evidenced by the Nanotechnology Product Database, which records the existence of over nine thousand products based on this technology in the market, of which only 231 find application in agribusiness. From intelligent coatings for seed treatment to nano-capsules for controlled release of agrochemicals, fertilizers, and biological products, the possibilities of application are vast and continue to expand.

In the Brazilian context, in addition to the previously mentioned Krilltech in previous years, one agtech has stood out in the production of products applying nanotechnology: NanoScoping is a Brazilian company that originated in 2014 in Florianopolis, founded by researchers Dr. Beatriz Veleirinho and Dr. Letícia Mazzarino. Winner of various innovation awards in Brazil, it now operates in more than 30 countries.

In the agricultural segment, NanoScoping adopts nano-encapsulation of natural products to enhance the effectiveness of application in plants and animals. The purpose is to provide greater protection against natural enemies, improved residual effects, as well as safer ingredients and a completely sustainable technology. For all these reasons, I envision a significant space for the growth of this market in agriculture, although specific data is still scarce. Regarding human health, it is estimated that the use of nanotechnology will encompass a market of $310 million by the end of 2025.

The technology of nano-encapsulation is fascinating due to its ability to reduce losses caused by volatilization and degradation, simplifying material handling and reducing the number of necessary applications. The reduced size of nanoparticles allows for a broader coverage of the plant or animal surface, providing greater uniformity of action to the active ingredient. The gradual release of the actives is possible due to the more efficient adherence of the nano-structured system to plant leaves and animal hairs, resulting in a more prolonged effect of the products.

Among the inputs offered by NanoScoping, I highlight those developed from vegetable oils encapsulated in biodegradable nanoparticles, grouped in the line called Nano Agro. With nanometric-sized particles, approximately 200 nanometers, these inputs enable more effective distribution and penetration of active ingredients on the plant surface. The greater dispersion capability intensifies their insecticidal, fungicidal, and bactericidal activity. We are facing innovative technologies already present and available to Brazilian producers, contributing to sustainability and efficiency in agribusiness.

In my fascination with nanotechnology, I cannot fail to mention the exceptional work carried out in this area by Dr. Valtencir Zucolloto's group at the University of São Paulo in São Carlos (USP). GNANO stands out for cutting-edge research associated with Brazilian agribusiness. Its contribution ranges from the development of new products to strategic partnerships with important market players. This initiative not only drives innovation in agriculture but also strengthens Brazil's position in the global research and development scenario.

In conclusion, the presence of nanotechnology in Brazilian agriculture, represented by the achievements of KrillTech, NanoScoping, and Dr. Valtencir Zucolloto's group, promises to significantly transform the sector. Innovative applications, such as the nano-encapsulation of inputs and nanotechnology-based products, not only enhance the effectiveness of agricultural practices but also contribute to environmental sustainability.

The continuous search for advanced solutions and the partnership between academia, startups, and large companies highlight the potential of this expanding sector. As more data and research are conducted, we can anticipate a promising future for the intersection of nanotechnology and agribusiness in Brazil.

                                     

The Brazilian agribusiness, despite its strength, faces significant challenges in its journey to increase competitiveness. One of the most pressing obstacles is the logistical issue, a gap that contributes to the increased 'Brazil Risk.' Structural problems, such as poor road conditions, cargo theft, high operating costs, and challenges in people management, become barriers to the sector's efficiency.

In response to this need, young entrepreneurs from Campo Mourão, the city that hosts the largest Brazilian cooperative, Coamo, decided to undertake an innovative solution. The agtech that emerged from this effort has stood out year after year, promising to revolutionize logistics in agribusiness. Under the leadership of Durval Carneiro, the current CEO of the company, the digital platform emerges as an effective response to the demand for a simplified and digitized connection between shippers and carriers.

Durval Carneiro, with his extensive experience in agribusiness from roles in seed companies, cooperatives, and retailers, closely identified the pains faced in the logistics sector. This insight led to the creation of a platform that puts logistical control in the hands of operators. In it, the operator posts the freight on the platform for transportation, and registered carriers are notified to present their conditions. The shipper, in turn, analyzes the offers and the reputation of the carriers, hires the best offer, the carrier makes the delivery, and the recipient evaluates the quality of the delivery, punctuality, and rates the carrier. 

The process is conducted in a simple, fast, and secure manner, providing not only operational efficiency but also a range of additional benefits. Among these benefits are time optimization in quotations, access to the best conditions, the formation of groups of favorite carriers, the inclusion of necessary documentation directly on the platform, real-time tracking, and the availability a complete dashboard for each customer. 

The impact of this platform goes beyond the simplification of logistical operations; it represents a true transformation in how agribusiness deals with its logistical challenges. By integrating technology, convenience, and security, the agtech positions itself as an essential ally to boost the efficiency and competitiveness of Brazilian agribusiness. As this innovation expands, a promising horizon opens for more agile and effective logistics at the heart of national agricultural production.

Telemedicine in Agribusiness: A Solution for Rural Health in Brazil

Brazil, with its 203 million inhabitants, faces significant challenges in the healthcare sector, especially concerning the population dependent on the Unified Health System (SUS), estimated at 152.1 million (IBGE, 2023). However, when we focus on the agricultural sector, where 5 million rural producers and almost 18 million workers contribute to the country's development, we encounter a complex reality.

Many of these rural entrepreneurs, responsible for supporting a significant part of the population, face challenges in providing quality health plans for their employees. High costs and lack of coverage in certain areas contribute to this difficulty, impacting not only the health of workers but also productivity and efficiency in the field.

The problem becomes even more evident when considering absenteeism, which can result in high costs due to work absences, a decline in production, long journeys to health centers, waiting lines, among other obstacles.

A light at the end of the tunnel emerges with the innovative initiative of the startup Dr. Orienta, which offers teleconsultations to any location in Brazil, including rural areas. With immediate assistance, unlimited consultations, 24/7 availability, and no need for internet or an app, the platform becomes an accessible and effective solution for the agricultural community.

In a country where it is estimated that more than 450 million mobile phones are in circulation, telemedicine proves to be a practical and essential tool. Dr. Orienta meets this demand, providing a direct channel between qualified doctors and rural workers, without requiring appointments, co-payments, or extra charges per consultation.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 80% of health cases worldwide can be resolved through teleconsultations. This approach not only improves efficiency by reducing work absences and unnecessary travel but also promotes a better quality of life for employees, emphasizing the importance of preventive treatment.

The regulation of telemedicine, strengthened during the pandemic, provides legal certainty, allowing the issuance of medical prescriptions, requests for tests, and certificates. Dr. Orienta, already established in Goiás with over 250,000 resolved cases without travel to health centers or hospitals, expanded its coverage by establishing an agreement with the Brazilian Postal Service (Correios), making plan enrollment accessible, quick, and bureaucracy-free.          

This initiative not only offers a valuable solution for the agricultural sector but also highlights the importance of companies committed to ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance), providing quality of life and access to health for those who play a fundamental role in the development of Brazilian agribusiness. By facilitating access to health in rural areas, Dr. Orienta represents not only an opportunity for agricultural companies but also a promising alternative for small producers and rural workers without medical plans. With its practical and efficient approach, Dr. Orienta is paving the way for a healthier and more sustainable future in the Brazilian countryside.

The Potential of Cooperatives and Solar Energy

The Brazilian agricultural sector is undergoing a silent revolution, driven by innovative companies that leverage two of its most fundamental qualities: cooperativism and the sustainable use of solar energy. One agtech stands out in this scenario, offering a unique approach that can transform farmers into some of the largest producers of clean energy on the planet.

In my presentations, I have emphasized the opportunity that farmers have today to become protagonists in clean energy production. The key innovation brought by this agtech is the groundbreaking concept of sharing solar plants within rural properties. These plants not only provide energy for internal consumption but also open the possibility of generating extra income through the sale of energy credits via cooperatives.

For those who do not have solar panels on their properties but are part of the cooperative, the advantage is clear: a reduction of up to 25% in their energy costs. Entrepreneurs who lack the capacity to invest in solar panels, whether due to capital limitations or land availability, can purchase energy from these cooperative farmers, resulting in a significant reduction in operational costs.

The essence of cooperativism is evident in this innovative model, where everyone participates, cooperates, and benefits. Cooperation not only strengthens the sustainability of the sector but also creates economic opportunities for all involved.

In addition to the cooperative aspect, some key advantages of this agtech include the use of proprietary technology developed for the efficient management of energy credits and debits. This technological approach provides transparency and effectiveness in administering shared energy resources.

Another important differentiator is the accessibility of joining the shared energy generation cooperative. The simplicity and agility of this process contrast with the bureaucracy often associated with similar initiatives. The 'win-win' approach for all participants reinforces the attractiveness and feasibility of this innovative solution.

The convergence of the cooperative idea, the integration between producers and consumers, and the sustainable adoption of solar energy position this agtech as a key player in transforming the energy landscape in Brazilian agribusiness. By promoting clean, affordable, and accessible energy, this innovation not only contributes to operational efficiency but also positions the agricultural sector as a protagonist in the transition to more sustainable energy sources.

Assuming the role of CEO at Ciarama Máquinas provided me with an exciting surprise upon discovering that the company was already utilizing the EE Móvel platform. Despite my familiarity with the organization from my previous experiences, the necessary scope for my previous role limited our proximity. However, at Ciarama, the implementation of this platform proved to be an extraordinary tool, providing executives with precise insights into our area of operation, location, and interactions with landowners.

The utility of the platform exceeds expectations, allowing me to understand Ciarama's market potential. From arable areas to regions with conversion possibilities and Permanent Preservation Areas, I can thoroughly analyze our current customers and assess opportunities to offer more in terms of equipment, services, parts, and technology – which is at the core of our organization. Additionally, the platform provides the opportunity to expand our market share and optimize the effectiveness of the sales team.

As an agronomist, I recognize the challenges faced when navigating rural roads without a defined route, without knowing the customer or their potential. EE Móvel Agro emerges as an efficient solution, facilitating interaction with our farmers. By locating their contacts, assessing properties, identifying agricultural segments, analyzing soil types, environmental factors, and production histories, the platform transforms the commercial approach.

This technology empowers my team with the ability to develop more refined sales strategies, implement more appropriate and efficient commercial visit routines, and know exactly when and what to offer to customers. EE Móvel Agro not only simplifies the management of the sales team but also enhances our operations, becoming a crucial component in advancing agribusiness at Ciarama Máquinas. As we explore the nuances of the market, we are empowered to offer increasingly personalized solutions, positioning ourselves as leaders at the forefront of innovation in the industry.

As we delve into the innovations provided by agtechs and their revolutionary technologies, we envision the potential to create not only enduring but also sustainable companies, with an authentic commitment to our farmers. We are in an era where the fusion of passion for agribusiness and technological innovation can radically transform how we face challenges and seize opportunities.

May our agtechs continue to tread the path of innovation, guided by the mission to offer practical, effective, and farmer-centric solutions. May each advancement represent not only a step forward in the technological world but also a giant leap toward a more resilient, productive, and sustainable agricultural future.

May every solution developed, every platform implemented, and every technological advance achieve its maximum goal by facilitating the hard work of the farmer, boosting productivity, reducing costs, and promoting more sustainable agriculture.

As a fervent enthusiast of agribusiness, my hope is that all these technologies are not just technical advancements but powerful instruments that cater to the needs of our greatest hero: The Farmer.