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A Kerry-based research centre that has worked with leading agriculture companies is now offering free technology consultations to farm businesses adapting to the challenges presented by COVID-19.
IMaR Enterprise Ireland Technology Gateway at IT Tralee has previously worked with companies including Dairymaster, Farmsafe Ltd, GrazeBot Ltd, Herdwatch and Cheetah Electric Fences in the areas of software, electronics, computing platforms, artificial intelligence and control systems. IMaR also hosts the AgriTech Centre of Excellence, a collaboration between IT Tralee, Kerry County Council, Dairymaster, McHales Engineering and Abbey Machinery, to deliver excellence in learning and development for Irish agri-tech.
Where to start?
With travel restrictions and social distancing with us for the foreseeable future, many businesses are looking at ways to continue operating while adhering to HSE guidelines, and many are trying to adapt their products to fit with new ways of working. New technology may be the answer, but the question is; where to start?
IMaR is now offering 30-minute technology consultation sessions free to Irish agri-tech businesses to go through the issues they may be having and help them find possible solutions. This could include expert advice on platforms to assist with online trading options, remote working, new ways of delivering training or expert content to customers, technology to remotely monitor and control machinery or achieve more with remote control and contactless interactions.
IMaR can also help with advice on state funding and grants available to businesses to bring in new technologies or to develop their own new technology products.
“Agri-tech businesses have already been in contact about what technology they could bring in to improve their products and greater serve their customers and stay competitive in the sector during the COVID-19 crisis,” says Dr Daniel Riordan of IMaR.
Sensor technology is something we are being asked about a lot
“Some we have been able to help by pointing them to the correct off-the-shelf technology or web services. Others have been advised on what technology or software is needed as a solution for their business and directed towards a suitable provider or consultant.
“Sensor technology is something we are being asked about a lot. Adding sensors to existing products, such as load cells for measuring weight or flow meters to pipework and sensors for monitoring animals and housings to reduce farmer travel to check on animals.
Enterprise Ireland have an array of supports available for Irish companies to both address the challenges of COVID-19
“We've already started working with some of these companies on R&D of new products and services better suited to the current business climate.
“Enterprise Ireland have an array of supports available for Irish companies to both address the challenges of COVID-19 and to assist with the funding of R&D activities and we can help agri-tech companies access these."
Companies can book their free session with the IMaR Enterprise Ireland Technology Gateway team by emailing imar@ittralee.ie . For further information, visit www.imar.ie
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