Ames startup Salin 247 has received an initial $50,000 investment from Ag Startup Engine.
Founded by Dave Krog and Saeed Arabj, Salin 247 is developing small-scale, light-weight, electric-powered, autonomous farm equipment used for growing crops.
“We want to help growers improve the health of their soils and increase the profitability and sustainability of their farm operations,” said Krog in a statement. “Our platform for using smaller, lighter, less costly equipment in the field will help growers reduce soil compaction, lower capital and operating costs, increase asset utilization, alleviate labor issues, and contribute to a cleaner environment.”
The company is testing its prototype planter this year and will begin conducting field trials with growers next year.
“Autonomy as a solution for labor and a deliberate effort to preserve or improve soil health are important missions for agriculture,” said Joel Harris, Executive Director of Ag Startup Engine. “We look forward to seeing the results from Salin’s pilot program next spring.”
“We are thrilled to be a part of the Ag Startup Engine portfolio of innovative businesses, and we are excited about the chance to interact, learn, and grow within the ASE ecosystem,” said Krog.
Ag Startup Engine launched four years ago to help address two fundamental gaps that prevent agricultural startups and entrepreneurs from being more successful: early seed-stage investment and organized mentorship from successful entrepreneurs. The program raised its second fund of $2.25 million earlier this year with the goal of accepting and investing in 45 agriculture and animal health startups over the next five years. To date, Ag Startup Engine has invested in 21 companies.
Previous coverage
Ag Startup Engine invests $50,000 in Nebraska-based Birds Eye Robotics -Sept. 22, 2021
Ames startup Farmers Risk receives $50,000 investment from Ag Startup Engine -July 30, 2021
Ag Startup Engine raises second fund of $2.25 million to invest in startups over the next five years -Feb. 9, 2021
Ag Startup Engine announces two $50,000 investments -March 1, 2021
