1 The EIC Accelerator Project
EIC Accelerator Program Overview
The EIC Accelerator, part of the European Innovation Council (EIC), is designed to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups, particularly those engaged in deep technology and innovation. The primary aim of the program is to provide funding and resources to high-risk, high-potential startups that can contribute to economic growth, job creation, and technological advancement in Europe.
The EIC Accelerator utilizes a blended finance model, offering both grants and equity investments. Grants can reach up to €2.5 million, aimed at covering the costs associated with innovation development, such as prototyping, testing, and scaling up. In addition to grants, the program offers equity funding, which was initially capped at €15 million until 2024 but has since been adjusted to a maximum of €10 million per project from 2025 onwards. This dual funding approach enables companies to secure the financial resources necessary for their growth and market entry.
The EIC Accelerator plays a crucial role in the European deep tech ecosystem by bridging the funding gap that often exists between early-stage innovation and market readiness. By providing financial support and mentorship, the program helps startups scale their operations, attract additional private sector investment, and enhance their competitiveness on a global scale.
SAIA AGROBOTICS BV and the AUTOFARM Project
One notable winner of the EIC Accelerator program is SAIA AGROBOTICS BV, a Dutch company that specializes in innovative agricultural solutions. The company was awarded funding for its project named AUTOFARM, which focuses on autonomous indoor farming technologies.
Project Overview: AUTOFARM
SAIA AGROBOTICS BV's AUTOFARM project aims to revolutionize the agricultural sector by developing autonomous farming systems that can optimize crop production while minimizing resource use. The project was submitted as a Step 2 proposal on October 5, 2022, and subsequently won in the Step 3 interview, showcasing its potential impact and feasibility.
Technology Basics and Background
The AUTOFARM project leverages advanced robotics, artificial intelligence, and deep learning algorithms to create a fully automated farming environment. This technology allows for precise monitoring of plant growth, environmental conditions, and resource allocation. The autonomous systems can manage various tasks, such as planting, watering, and harvesting, thereby reducing labor costs and increasing efficiency.
Key components of the technology include:
Impact and Future Prospects
The AUTOFARM project aligns with the growing trend towards sustainable agriculture and food security, addressing key challenges such as labor shortages, resource scarcity, and climate change. By automating farming processes, SAIA AGROBOTICS BV aims to enhance productivity and ensure that more efficient farming methods can contribute to the global food supply chain.
In conclusion, the EIC Accelerator program not only provides essential funding but also empowers innovative companies like SAIA AGROBOTICS BV to bring groundbreaking projects like AUTOFARM to fruition. The program represents a significant step forward in the European deep tech ecosystem, fostering innovation that has the potential to transform industries and improve societal outcomes.
2 The Funding Rounds
# SAIA Agrobotics BV: Funding Journey and GrowthSAIA Agrobotics BV is a Netherlands-based company that specializes in greenhouse automation technology for scalable farming of fresh food. The company develops robotics and artificial intelligence systems to automate tasks in greenhouses, helping businesses in food production become more resource-efficient and less labor-dependent.
Funding History
SAIA Agrobotics has gone through several funding rounds since its inception, with significant growth in recent years:
Seed Funding
- The company received its first seed funding on January 5, 2021
- A second Seed VC-II round was completed on December 21, 2022
- Oost NL participated in both seed rounds
EIC Accelerator Funding
- SAIA Agrobotics received funding from the EIC Accelerator program
- The company submitted its Step 2 proposal on October 5, 2022, and subsequently won in the Step 3 interview
Current Funding Round (Series A)
- As of March 20, 2025, SAIA Agrobotics is raising a Series A round of €10-14 million for market traction and expansion
- The company has already secured 75% of the round with one open ticket of €3.5 million remaining
- This funding is intended to help scale to three flagship farms by 2027
Investors
SAIA Agrobotics has attracted multiple investors throughout its funding journey:
- Total Investor Count: 7 investors
- Key Investors:
- Oost NL (Venture Capital, Netherlands) - Invested in both Seed VC rounds
- Navus Ventures (Venture Capital, Netherlands)
- EIC Accelerator (Government, Belgium)
- SHIFT Invest (Venture Capital, Netherlands)
- Innovation Industries (Venture Capital, Netherlands)
Company Growth and Milestones
SAIA Agrobotics has achieved several notable milestones:
- Major Previous Milestone: Signed a launching customer
- Upcoming Major Milestone: Scale to three flagship farms by 2027
- Current Growth Stage: The company is in the "Growth and Establishment" stage
Industry Focus
SAIA Agrobotics operates across multiple industry sectors:
- Advanced Manufacturing & Advanced Materials
- AI, Data & ICT
- Agriculture & Food
- Climate & Environmental Tech
The company is specifically focused on agricultural robotics, collaborative robots, greenhouse technology, and novel farming approaches.
Leadership
The company is led by Ruud Barth, who serves as CEO & Founder of SAIA Agrobotics.
SAIA Agrobotics is positioning itself for continued growth in the agricultural technology space, with its Series A funding aimed at expanding market presence and scaling operations. The company has successfully progressed from seed funding to growth-stage investment, indicating positive market traction and investor confidence in its greenhouse automation technology.
Sources: - SAIA Series A | EIC Summit 25 Networking Platform - b2match
- SAIA Agrobotics Stock Price, Funding, Valuation ... - CB Insights
- Saia Agrobotics company information, funding & investors | Scaleup
- Series A Round | EIC Summit 25 Networking Platform - b2match
- Saia Agrobotics company information, funding & investors
3 The Press Releases
SAIA Agrobotics BV: Enhancing Greenhouse Efficiency
SAIA Agrobotics BV, based in the Netherlands, has been at the forefront of innovations in horticultural robotics since receiving the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator funding in October 2022. This funding marked a significant milestone in their journey to revolutionize greenhouse operations through automation and artificial intelligence.
Technology Advancements
SAIA Agrobotics specializes in developing harvest and crop-handling robots designed to bring the plant to the robot, rather than moving the robot through the plant. This approach simplifies the process by allowing plants to be inspected and harvested more efficiently. Their AI-robotics harvester systems provide a controlled climate, enabling farmers to achieve better yields while utilizing less land.
Partnerships and Ecosystem
The company benefits from its strategic location in Wageningen, Netherlands, which is renowned for its agrotech innovation ecosystem. Partnerships with leading Dutch greenhouse industryassistant
SAIA Agrobotics BV: Enhancing Greenhouse Efficiency
SAIA Agrobotics BV, based in the Netherlands, has been at the forefront of innovations in horticultural robotics since receiving the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator funding in October 2022. This funding marked a significant milestone in their journey to revolutionize greenhouse operations through automation and artificial intelligence.
Technology Advancements
SAIA Agrobotics specializes in developing harvest and crop-handling robots designed to bring the plant to the robot, rather than moving the robot through the plant. This approach simplifies the process by allowing plants to be inspected and harvested more efficiently. Their AI-robotics harvester systems provide a controlled climate, enabling farmers to achieve better yields while utilizing less land.
Partnerships and Ecosystem
The company benefits from its strategic location in Wageningen, Netherlands, which is renowned for its agrotech innovation ecosystem. Partnerships with leading Dutch greenhouse industry partners have been instrumental in developing the world's first fully automated greenhouse. This collaborative environment, supported by organizations like StartLife and FoodValley, has facilitated significant strides in green technology.
Patents and Innovations
SAIA Agrobotics has developed a unique patented growing method that keeps plants short and vertical, making them easily movable. This innovation allows for higher yields and simplifies plant management in greenhouses.
Team Updates
Ruud Barth, CEO and founder of SAIA Agrobotics, has been a driving force behind the company's technological advancements. The team's expertise in robotics and AI has enabled them to overcome long-standing challenges in horticultural automation.
Funding and Investment
Following the EIC Accelerator Grant, SAIA Agrobotics has pursued additional funding to scale its operations. The company is currently raising a Series A round of 10-14 million euros, with a focus on market expansion and establishing flagship farms.
Press Releases and Updates
Updates and press releases about SAIA Agrobotics can be found on platforms like EU-Startups and through interviews at events like the StartLife Demo Day. These sources highlight the company's progress in developing market-ready automation solutions for greenhouses.
Website and Social Media
SAIA Agrobotics maintains a comprehensive website at saia-agrobotics.com, detailing its automation solutions and innovations. However, specific press releases or updates on the website are not widely referenced in external sources.
Sources: - Saia Agrobotics
- SAIA Agrobotics - EU-Startups
- EIC Accelerator Grant: SAIA Agrorobotics
- SAIA Agrobotics Update and Interview
- SAIA Series A
4 The Technology Advancements
SAIA Agrobotics BV: Current Capabilities and Advancements
SAIA Agrobotics BV, a Netherlands-based company, specializes in innovative horticultural robotics. Since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding in October 2022, the company has made significant strides in advancing its technology and demonstrating its capabilities in the market.
Current Capabilities
- Automation Technology: SAIA Agrobotics is renowned for its unique approach of bringing plants to robots, rather than the other way around. This system utilizes AI and robotic harvesting, significantly reducing labor requirements by half. Their technology is designed to keep plants short and vertical, making them movable and improving yields.
- Greenhouse Automation: The company has collaborated with Dutch partners to build the world's first fully automated greenhouse. Here, plants are monitored by AI, which assesses their health and readiness for harvest based on grower preferences.
Advancements Since EIC Funding
- EIC Accelerator Grant Impact: The grant received in 2022, combined with investments from Navus Ventures and OostNL, enabled SAIA to construct an autonomous test greenhouse. This development has been crucial for refining their cultivation system and demonstrating a market-ready product.
- Autonomous Test Greenhouse: The establishment of this greenhouse has allowed SAIA to achieve full automation of the harvesting process for tomato plants. This setup also facilitates demonstrations of their technology to potential customers.
Market Demonstrations and Technology Improvements
- Demonstrations and Pilots: SAIA has leveraged their autonomous test greenhouse to invite growers to experience their technology firsthand. This hands-on approach helps potential clients understand the benefits of their automation systems.
- Technology Improvements: While specific new features or updates since the funding are not explicitly detailed, SAIA's focus on scalability and robustness indicates ongoing enhancements. Their innovative plant management system continues to evolve, offering higher yields and efficiency.
Patents, Studies, and Publications
There is no explicit information available regarding new patents filed or scientific studies published by SAIA Agrobotics since receiving the EIC funding. The company's emphasis remains on practical implementation and market adoption of its existing patented growing method.
Conclusion
SAIA Agrobotics BV has successfully advanced its automation technology and market presence since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding. By developing a fully automated greenhouse and demonstrating its capabilities, the company is poised to make significant impacts in the horticultural robotics sector.
Sources
- SAIA Agrobotics | greenhouse automation
- Project SAIA Agrobotics - The Netherlands
- EIC Accelerator Grant: SAIA Agrorobotics
5 The Partnerships and Customers
SAIA Agrobotics BV: Partnerships and Market Positioning
SAIA Agrobotics BV, a Dutch company specializing in automation solutions for the greenhouse industry, has been making significant strides since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding in October 2022. This funding has enabled the company to further develop its innovative robotic systems and strengthen its market presence.
Partnerships and Collaborations
SAIA Agrobotics has collaborated with leading Dutch greenhouse industry partners to develop the world's first automated greenhouse. This partnership leverages SAIA's expertise in AI-robotics and plant handling to improve crop yields and reduce labor costs. While specific new partners are not detailed in recent reports, SAIA's engagement with StartLife, an acceleration program, has been instrumental in refining its business strategy and technology.
Customers
Information on specific customers is not readily available, but SAIA's solutions are designed for global greenhouse growers, aiming to simplify large-scale greenhouse operations through automation.
New Relationships and Market Position
The establishment of its own test greenhouse, planned for early 2024, indicates SAIA's commitment to scaling its technology and solidifying its position in the market. This development will allow for more extensive testing and refinement of its automation solutions.
Technology Advancements and Scaling
SAIA's approach, which involves bringing plants to robots rather than vice versa, enhances harvesting efficiency and reduces labor requirements. This unique method, combined with AI-driven crop monitoring, positions SAIA as a leader in greenhouse automation. The company's focus on autonomous indoor farming aims to address global food security challenges by providing controlled climate conditions and higher yields.
Future Prospects
With the continued support from funding and strategic partnerships, SAIA Agrobotics is poised to expand its reach in the agtech sector. Its innovative technology not only supports sustainable farming practices but also helps mitigate the impacts of climate change on agriculture. As the demand for efficient and autonomous farming solutions grows, SAIA's advancements are likely to play a crucial role in shaping the future of greenhouse horticulture.
Sources
- SAIA Agrobotics
- CB Insights - SAIA Agrobotics
- Saia Agrobotics Update and Interview
- About - SAIA Agrobotics
6 The Hiring and Company Growth
SAIA Agrobotics BV: Growth and Development Post EIC Accelerator Funding
SAIA Agrobotics BV, a Netherlands-based company specializing in greenhouse automation, successfully secured funding from the EIC Accelerator in October 2022. Since then, the company has been at the forefront of innovation in agricultural robotics, focusing on revolutionizing farming practices through technology.
Hiring and Team Growth
Currently, specific information about SAIA Agrobotics' current headcount and team size is not publicly available. However, the company's focus on developing cutting-edge automation solutions suggests a need for skilled professionals in robotics, AI, and agricultural engineering. Given their innovative approach, they may be actively seeking talent in these areas to support their growth.
Current Hiring Status
While there is no explicit information on whether SAIA Agrobotics is currently hiring, their involvement in advanced robotics and AI suggests ongoing recruitment efforts to expand their development and operational capabilities.
Growth Since EIC Funding
Since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding, SAIA Agrobotics has likely experienced significant growth, driven by their unique patented automation solutions for greenhouse growers. This funding would have supported the expansion of their business, enabling them to further develop and market their technologies globally.
Key Positions and New Team Members
Although specific key positions recently filled are not detailed, new team members would be crucial in enhancing SAIA Agrobotics' technological capabilities and market reach. Their role in scaling the company involves developing more efficient and sustainable farming practices, which are essential for meeting global food demands while addressing labor shortages and environmental challenges.
Impact on Company Future
The addition of new team members will be pivotal in helping SAIA Agrobotics scale by enhancing their AI-driven plant monitoring systems, improving the efficiency of their robotic harvesters, and expanding their automated greenhouse solutions. This growth positions the company to play a leading role in the future of sustainable agriculture, enabling them to address global challenges such as food security and environmental sustainability.
Major Changes in Management or Founding Team
There is no publicly available information on any major changes in the management or founding team of SAIA Agrobotics since they received the EIC Accelerator funding.
Sources:
7 The Media Features and Publications
SAIA Agrobotics BV: Media, Events, and Industry EngagementSince securing EIC Accelerator funding in October 2022, SAIA Agrobotics has gained visibility through media features, conferences, and interviews. Below is a detailed overview of their public engagements and coverage.
Media Features & Publications
- GreenhouseGrower.com highlighted SAIA’s robotics development for greenhouse automation, emphasizing its focus on replacing manual labor with AI-driven harvesting systems.
- HortiDaily (August 2023) detailed SAIA’s pivot to a “mobile plant” concept, comparing their approach to a car-wash model where plants are moved vertically for robotic processing.
- Vertical Farm Daily (June 2024) listed SAIA as an exhibitor at GreenTech Amsterdam 2024 alongside other innovators in horticultural robotics.
- Startuprise.co.uk (February 2025) published an in-depth profile of the company’s journey from academic spin-off to multi-million-dollar enterprise focused on automated food factories.
Podcasts & Interviews
- YouTube Interviews: CEO Ruud Barth explained the company’s core technology in multiple videos:
- StartLife Accelerate Spring ’19 (December 2023 upload): Discussed the shift from mobile robots to moving plants.
- StartLife Demo Day Fall 2023: Shared team expansion plans and labor-saving outcomes of their vertical farming system.
Conferences & Events
- GreenTech Amsterdam: Participated as an exhibitor in June 2024 alongside companies like Aisprid and SIGROW to showcase automated greenhouse solutions.
- Wageningen University Collaborations: As a spin-off from Wageningen UR, SAIA maintains ties with academic partners through joint research initiatives cited across media features.
Sources Used:
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