Natural Ventures Announces Investment in Kilter to Drive Global Expansion of Precision Weeding Technology
Abu Dhabi, 1 December 2024 – Natural Ventures is delighted to announce our investment in Kilter, a groundbreaking Norwegian company transforming precision weeding with its autonomous, AI-driven robot, the AX-1.
Co-leading the €9M Series A round alongside Pymwymic and Nufarm, Natural Ventures is committed to supporting Kilter’s mission to create a sustainable and efficient future for global agriculture.
The AX-1 leverages cutting-edge single-droplet nozzle technology to reduce herbicide usage by up to 95%. Its deep-learning vision system maps fields with pinpoint accuracy, targeting weeds with remarkable precision while preserving crops and soil health. By reducing chemical inputs and labour demands, Kilter’s technology provides farmers with an innovative solution to address pressing challenges such as rising herbicide resistance, stricter regulations, and escalating operational costs.
Paul Rous, Partner at Natural Ventures, comments:
“Kilter is a vital addition to our portfolio, tackling critical agricultural challenges with a precision weeding solution that significantly reduces herbicide use while enhancing yield and sustainability. Supporting Kilter’s global expansion aligns with our mission to transform food and water systems for a healthier planet.”
Founded in 2015 as a robotics project within Adigo Mechatronics, Kilter became an independent company in 2020 to focus on its proprietary nozzle technology. With a strong presence in Norway, Sweden, and Germany, Kilter is now set to expand into Australia and New Zealand by partnering with Nufarm’s Croplands platform. This strategic collaboration will validate the AX-1’s technology in new markets and pave the way for a broader rollout, solidifying Kilter’s position as a leader in sustainable agriculture.
Rico Christensen, Group Executive, Portfolio Solutions, Nufarm, adds:
“Nufarm has been a pioneer in precision application since we launched our broad acre solution in 2014 through our Croplands business in Australia and New Zealand. With Kilter joining our portfolio, we are taking precision application robots to the horticultural markets. Farmers will benefit through higher yields, lower cost for crop protection and mitigation of labour shortage and cost.”
Anders Brevik, CEO of Kilter, commented:
“This investment enables us to expand globally and continue developing technology that empowers farmers to grow food sustainably. We’re excited to work with Natural Ventures and our investors to drive this mission forward.”
The successful completion of this transaction was supported by Accumont Advisors, whose industry networks and expertise were instrumental in the investment process. Their detailed insights into Kilter’s technology, market potential, and financial readiness provided critical validation for this strategic investment.
This marks Natural Ventures’ fifth investment, reinforcing our commitment to accelerating the adoption of technologies that transform global agriculture.
About Natural Ventures
Natural Ventures is an impact-driven investment firm focused on accelerating the transformation to sustainable water and food systems. The firm is backed by leading institutions and is managed by a team of experienced investors with a deep understanding of the agriculture and water technology sectors. Natural Ventures is committed to investing in companies using technology to create a more sustainable world.
About Kilter
Kilter is pioneering a fairer and more sustainable food system by developing precision weeding solutions that enhance farmer livelihoods and reduce environmental impact. With its AI-powered AX-1 robot, Kilter is setting new standards in precision agriculture, driving global adoption of its sustainable technology.
About Accumont
Accumont specialises in M&A, due diligence, intellectual property and corporate strategy, driving the growth of purpose-driven technology companies. Focused on agriculture and food, we empower innovators and investors to build sustainable businesses with significant societal and environmental impact.
Press Enquiries
Natural Ventures
Mark Jenkins, Managing Partner: mark@natural.ventures
Maarten ter Keurst, Managing Partner: maarten@natural.ventures
Paul Rous, Partner: paul@natural.ventures