BASF invests in crop analytics startup Hummingbird

Founded in 2016, Hummingbird Technologies has developed a technology platform to evaluate the condition of agricultural fields.

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BASF Venture Capital and @TELUS Ventures invest in AgTech startup @TechHummingbird. The Investment will fund advancements in remote sensing, artificial intelligence, machine learning and data analytics for in-field precision farming https://t.co/zAjCk2LgeL
Photo:ThinkstockPhotos pic.twitter.com/grMtDvjGWd

— BASF (@BASF) October 15, 2019

Precise harvest forecasts

Hummingbird’s artificial intelligence, deep learning and imagery analytics solution uses proprietary algorithms driven by aerial images captured from satellites, planes and unmanned aerial vehicles. It processes image data to create precise harvest forecasts or accurately calculate how much fertiliser is needed.

Real-time actionable recommendations

With its high-resolution system, Hummingbird says it can also locate potential pest infestation, plant diseases or planting gaps. These tools are to deliver real-time actionable recommendations, which should both improve performance on farms through precise targeting of operations and inputs, as well as provide evidence-based justification and Return on Investment (ROI) proof for decision-making, according to the company.

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Hummingbird Technologies collects data from satellites, planes, robots and drones. – Photo: Mark Pasveer

In-field zone maps within 24 hours

Hummingbird says it can provide farmers and their advisors within 24 hours with in-field zone maps that help them specifically target the application of fertilisers, crop protection products and growth regulators as well as selectively manage subsequent plantings.

Agricultural experts from BASF UK have been working with the startup since 2016 and supply aerial images to farmers. Hummingbird analyses these photos and gives farmers detailed maps of the various in-field zones for precision farming.