A new Agtech and Logistics Hub based in Toowoomba, Queensland is preparing to scour Australia to solve real-world challenges in the agricultural industry, bridging the gap between research and industry adoption.
Identifying issues within the sector will provide a clearer picture of what problems need solving, Agtech and Logistics Hub manager Owen Williams said.
“Using this as inspiration we’re able to be on the lookout for teams and individuals who will collaborate, interact with industry, then develop, test and grow new business ideas, products and services,” Williams said.
“This open innovation concept is a major focus of the hub to allow us to further grow the industry,” he said.
The Agtech and Logistics Hub will deliver a series of open programs that will fast-track the development of agriculture technology.
To help deliver these programs, the Hub has announced a new partnership with Innovation Architects, a Queensland-based advisory group.
“We recognise the importance for industry groups to actively participate in our innovation ecosystem and collaborate with universities, government and start-ups to increase commercial opportunities and outcomes, to focus our innovation efforts on areas of competitive advantage such as agriculture,” Innovation Architects managing director Mark Gustowski said.
“Unlike traditional accelerators, this forward-thinking program will seek to match innovative solutions to industry challenges that we’ve identified in the agriculture business community, and then drive those solutions in markets nationally and internationally.
“Agriculture represents a significant part of the Australian economy with farm gate output to exceed $100 billion by 2030, and programs supporting new technologies in the sector will go a long way towards achieving that goal.”
Collaboration is key to developing a stronger agricultural sector for the future.
“Solving industry challenges through innovation and technology is very exciting and we are confident that working with Innovation Architects’ framework and experience, that we will be able to fast track and deliver on validated solutions for the industry,” Gustowski said.
The Agtech and Logistics Hub is jointly funded by the Queensland government in association with the FKG Group, Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise, University of Southern Queensland and the University of Queensland.
If you are interested in connecting with the Open Innovation and Acceleration initiatives, visit www.agtechlogisticshub.com.au for further information.