3. Consider bringing in an advisor
“Many early-stage fundings try to operate without an advisor,” says Buckeridge. “There’s a huge amount of detail to deal with, and it may be where you lack experience.”
A trusted advisor, someone who understands the detail, can help navigate investor conversations, manage due diligence, and keep you focused on running your company.
4. Get your unit economics right
Margins in agriculture are tight, and investors know it. Your customer acquisition cost (CAC) must be well below your lifetime value (LTV).
As Mark Brooks, a venture investor and former head of FMC Ventures and Syngenta Group Ventures, puts it: “Unit economics have to take top priority, regardless of what you’re building.” If your model doesn’t scale profitably, funding will be hard to secure.
5. Build a resilient capital stack
With some agri-tech-specific funds pulling back, it’s more important than ever to diversify your funding sources. Explore non-dilutive options like grants, competitions, and philanthropic support — many of which are listed on our Funder Finder page. It’s regularly updated with opportunities relevant to start-ups, researchers, and SMEs.
Brooks also recommends engaging with funds focused on climate, planetary health, and sustainability – even if agriculture isn’t their sole focus. These funds bring cross-disciplinary thinking and broader networks, which can be valuable in shaping your growth.
6. Expect fundraising to be a full-time job
Fundraising can take a CEO out of the business for months. “You’ll kiss a lot of frogs,” says Buckeridge.
Stay positive, ask for feedback after every meeting, and use it to refine your approach.
