Tesco has opened applications for its 2026 Agri-tech Challenge, inviting agri-tech innovators from around the world to submit technologies that can help farmers and suppliers, build more resilient and sustainable food supply chains.
Now in its ninth year, the refreshed competition introduces a two-pathway model recognising that agri-tech businesses require different support depending on their stage of development.
Earlier-stage innovators at technology readiness levels four to six will receive specialist mentoring from a key Tesco supplier to help refine their innovation.
Those at technology readiness level seven and above will have the opportunity to trial their technology with one of Tesco’s supply chain partners, alongside mentoring from Tesco’s sustainability team.
The challenge targets technologies addressing some of agriculture’s most pressing issues, including animal health and welfare, emissions reduction, soil health, biodiversity, automation, crop losses, food waste and on-farm quality.
Natalie Smith, Head of Sustainable Agriculture and Fisheries at Tesco, said: “As the biggest customer of UK agriculture, we want to do all we can to support our farmers in providing affordable, healthy and sustainable food. Through the Tesco Agri-tech Challenge, we want to find practical technologies that can make a difference on farm, whether that is improving soil health, supporting animal welfare, reducing food waste or helping suppliers become more resilient.”
Last year’s competition was won by ProtonDx, the company behind Dragonfly, a portable diagnostic platform capable of identifying key livestock infections in under 30 minutes.
The win secured ProtonDx fast-track access to Tesco’s supplier network and a real-world supply chain trial.
Bob Enck, Chief Executive of ProtonDx, said: “Winning the Tesco Agri-tech Challenge was a major milestone for us. The fast-track access to Tesco’s supplier network and the opportunity to trial our platform in a real supply-chain environment helped accelerate both our technology and our commercial readiness.”
Running in partnership with global innovation marketplace Leading Edge Only (LEO), the competition accepts applications until 3 July 2026.
Winners will receive direct access to Tesco’s Sustainable Agriculture and Fisheries team alongside fast-track introductions to relevant supplier partners.
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