The UK Government’s new 10-year Industrial Strategy has officially recognised agri-tech as one of the nation’s “frontier sectors”, alongside industries such as aerospace and advanced materials. This milestone reflects the growing innovation, collaboration, and commercial potential of agriculture technology in the UK.
The strategy includes a £200 million commitment to the Farming Innovation Programme, running until 2030. This investment will help agri-tech businesses, like GrowUp Farms, scale up solutions that can tackle some of the biggest challenges in food production and sustainability.
Agri-tech’s importance is clear. As Richard Waite from the World Resources Institute puts it:
“Worried about biodiversity loss? Focus on food.
Worried about deforestation? Focus on food.
Worried about overfishing? Focus on food.
Worried about climate change? Focus on energy. And food.”
With the number of UK agri-tech startups increasing 40-fold in the past decade (UK Research and Innovation), this recognition signals a new era for innovation in farming. It’s an opportunity to strengthen the UK’s food system, reduce environmental impacts, and ensure greater resilience in the supply chain.
At GrowUp Farms, our purpose is to change the world by growing better. This platform gives our sector the visibility and support needed to keep developing sustainable, technology-driven solutions for the UK and beyond.