North Dakota wins big in Ag tech innovation award

By Scout Nelson

In a remarkable achievement for agricultural technology (AgTech), a North Dakota coalition has been recognized as a leader in the field, securing a prestigious award from the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF).

This award, potentially reaching up to $160 million over ten years, aims to revolutionize food insecurity solutions and catalyze economic growth within the agricultural sector.

The coalition, consisting of five North Dakota entities, was chosen for this competitive award through the NSF Regional Innovation Engines program.

Their project, Food systems Adapted for Resiliency and Maximized Security (FARMS), stood out among 188 submissions nationwide for its innovative approach to improving crop growth and introducing new agricultural products to the market.

U.S. Senator John Hoeven and North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum have both lauded the award as a testament to North Dakota's contributions to the global AgTech community.

This funding aims to provide farmers and ranchers with advanced tools to enhance their operations, leading to reduced costs and improved yields.

The initiative is expected to stimulate growth across various industries, including technology and manufacturing, ensuring a competitive edge in the global market and a sustainable food supply.

NSF Director Sethuraman Panchanathan highlighted the award as part of NSF's commitment to fostering innovation and economic growth nationwide.

The FARMS program is particularly noted for its potential to bring technological advancements to regions traditionally overlooked in the tech boom, creating opportunities for new ideas, entrepreneurs, and businesses to flourish in North Dakota.

This federal investment marks a significant milestone for North Dakota, recognizing its vital role in advancing AgTech and contributing to global food security.

Through this initiative, North Dakota is set to become a leading hub of innovation, driving forward solutions that benefit not only the state but the world at large.

Photo Credit -national-science-foundation