Picketa Systems, a Canada-based agtech startup, has successfully raised CAD$2.1 million (approximately $1.5 million) in funding. This capital infusion, led by Tall Grass Ventures, will facilitate the expansion of its portable crop nutrient sensing technology, which uses AI-powered spectroscopy to estimate 13 key nutrients.
The LENS (leaf evaluated nutrient system) tool provides rapid nutrient estimations, validated by third-party lab testing. This technology integrates with Picketa’s Fieldbook platform, enabling farmers to potentially reduce fertilizer costs by up to 20% and improve yields through precise nutrient application.
This funding round saw participation from new investors BDC Seed Fund, Verdex Capital, and Skull Diamond & Heart Capital, alongside increased commitments from returning investors NBIF, Koan Capital, and East Valley Ventures. The technology addresses the industry's need for faster, more affordable nutrient diagnostics compared to traditional lab tests.
Looking ahead, co-founder and CEO Xavier Hebert-Couturier envisions a future where advancements in crop sensing and autonomous vehicles will completely close the fertilizer loop within 10 years, automating nutrient application based on real-time crop needs.