County Kerry’s agritech sector continues to establish itself as a powerhouse, with three of its companies making it to the finals of the Enterprise Ireland Innovation Arena Awards during the 2024 National Ploughing Championships. Kerry’s strong showing reinforces the region's influence in agricultural innovation, positioning the county as a leader in the industry.
Dairymaster was a finalist in the Established Company category, recognised for its DairyVue 360 platform, which enhances herd monitoring. This advanced digital farm management system is designed to enhance dairy farming by making it more profitable, enjoyable, and sustainable. DairyVue 360 provides comprehensive insights into herd performance within the milking parlour, enabling farmers to make informed decisions that optimise operations and improve overall farm productivity. This nomination only solidifies their position as one of Kerry's top agritech innovators.
Brandon Bioscience, another Kerry-based firm, also received recognition for its SEALCIT technology as a finalist for the Green Impact Award. This SEALCIT solution is designed to reduce pod shatter in oilseed rape (OSR) by improving the elasticity of the seed pods, particularly during the critical period before harvest. By enhancing pod resilience, SEALCIT helps ensure higher yield retention, contributing to more efficient and sustainable farming practices. By addressing challenges in crop production through innovative biotechnology, Brandon Bioscience is leading the way in agritech innovation, reflecting the county's commitment to environmental sustainability in agriculture.
RT Sales, known for its advanced hedge-cutting systems, was also a finalist in the Start-Up Innovator of the Year Award with its innovative hedge-cutting solution, the RT ProArm range. This line features a patented mounting system designed to enhance safety by stabilising rear-mounted grass mowers. It eliminates the need for axle brackets on tractors, saving time when switching between tractors and boosting overall efficiency. By focusing on practical improvements, RT Sales aims to make agricultural machinery more efficient and user-friendly for farmers. Their nomination showcases the diversity of agritech innovation coming from Kerry, spanning machinery, biotechnology, and data-driven farming solutions.
The achievements of Dairymaster, Brandon Bioscience, and RT Sales speak volumes about Kerry’s established reputation as a centre of excellence for agritech innovation. The county's contributions to sustainable and efficient farming solutions continue to have a significant impact on both the Irish and global agricultural landscapes. Kerry’s presence at the Innovation Arena Awards reaffirms its standing as a key player in the future of the agritech industry across the globe.
