Unveiling the OpenAgri Open Call: Your Guide to €100.000 for Innovation!
The world of agriculture is undergoing a digital revolution, with open-source solutions emerging as powerful tools to empower farmers and build a more sustainable food system. But how can you, as a developer, researcher, or farmer, get involved in this exciting movement?
Who are we looking for?
Our upcoming Open Call is your chance to contribute to the development and deployment of cutting-edge open-source Agricultural Digital Solutions (OS ADSs). This call is designed to foster a collaboration between small consortia comprised of two entities:
- An ADS provider, whether an SME, university, research institute, or non-profit organization: Your expertise in software development, data analysis, or machine learning will be crucial in building the core functionalities of our OS ADSs. Think innovative tools that leverage existing cloud solutions, adapting them for edge computing or mixed models, all while fostering data-driven decision making for farmers.
- An end-user, consisting of a farm, farm structure, farm cooperative or other agrifood production organisation or company representing farms): Your on-the-ground knowledge and understanding of agricultural challenges will ensure the developed tools are user-friendly and address real-world needs. You’ll be instrumental in co-creating solutions that directly impact your farm and countless others.
What are We Looking For?
The Open Call will focus on areas not already covered by our existing project pilots. We’re looking for proposals that address:
- Specific Countries and Crops: Are there under-represented regions or crops facing unique challenges? Your proposal can bridge this gap!
- Diverse Conditions: Farming environments vary greatly. Help us develop solutions that are adaptable to a wide range of contexts.
- Emerging Technologies: The world of ag-tech is constantly evolving. Does your proposal integrate cutting-edge advancements?
By focusing on these areas, we can ensure the Open Call fosters truly innovative solutions with broad applicability.
Why Participate?
Joining the OpenAgri Open Call offers a multitude of benefits:
- Be a Changemaker: Contribute directly to a project with impact, empowering farmers and promoting sustainable practices. Your work has the potential to revolutionise agriculture!
- Expand Your Network: Gain exposure to a vibrant open-source community of developers, researchers, and farmers. Connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for innovation in agriculture.
- Shape the Future of Ag: Play a vital role in developing innovative tools that will revolutionise the way we produce food. Be at the forefront of building a more sustainable and efficient food system.
- Financial Support: Selected proposals will receive funding of €100,000 to support the development, deployment, and scaling of your OS ADS.
Feeling Unprepared?
Don’t worry! We’re here to guide you through the Open Call process:
1. Stay Updated:
- Visit the OpenAgri website regularly for the latest Open Call announcements. We’ll clearly outline the specific areas of focus for each call, ensuring your proposal aligns with our project goals.
- Subscribe to our newsletter to receive updates directly in your inbox.
2. Identify Your Area of Expertise:
Whether you’re a developer with a knack for machine learning or a farmer with a deep understanding of on-farm challenges, identify how your skills and knowledge can contribute to the project.
3. Explore Collaboration Opportunities:
OpenAgri encourages collaborative proposals. Consider partnering with those who can complement your expertise and strengthen your application.
4. Craft a Winning Proposal:
Once the Open Call launches, focus on developing a clear and concise proposal that outlines:
- The problem you’re addressing: Clearly define the agricultural challenge your proposed OS ADS aims to solve.
- Your proposed solution: Explain how your open-source tools will address the identified need.
- Potential impact: Demonstrate the potential impact of your solution on farm productivity, sustainability, and farmer livelihoods.
- Feasibility and development plan: Outline a realistic timeline for the development and deployment of your OS ADS.
5. Utilise Our Resources:
The OpenAgri website will be your one-stop shop for navigating the Open Calls. We’ll provide access to:
- Dedicated Website: Stay updated on the Open Call timeline, access application materials, and find helpful resources on the OpenAgri website.
- Information Events: Attend webinars and workshops to gain insights into the application process, network with potential partners, and learn from agricultural and technology experts.
- Technical Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out to the OpenAgri team for assistance. They are dedicated to providing support throughout the journey.
Stay Tuned!
We’ll be providing detailed information about the Open Call process, evaluation criteria, and timelines on the OpenAgri website soon. Keep an eye out and get ready to submit your proposal.