What is Aerobotics?
Aerobotics leverages aerial imagery from satellites and drones, combined with advanced machine learning algorithms, to offer early problem detection services for farmers. Founded by James Paterson and Benji Meltzer, the company provides detailed statistics on trees and vines, enabling precise planting strategies and management zone planning. Aerobotics' solutions are deployed across hundreds of farms in 11 countries, demonstrating a significant global reach and commanding substantial market share in South Africa's macadamia nut and citrus sectors. The company has been recognized with multiple awards, including Best Technology Company of 2014 at Africa Tech Week, highlighting its innovation in the agritech space.
How much funding has Aerobotics raised?
Aerobotics has raised a total of $21.6M across 3 funding rounds:
Angel/Seed
$609K
Series A
$4M
Series B
$17M
Angel/Seed (2017): $609K with participation from 4Di Capital and Savannah Fund
Series A (2019): $4M led by Nedbank Capital and Paper Plane Ventures
Series B (2021): $17M supported by Cathay Innovation, FMO NV, Platform Investment Partners, and Naspers
Key Investors in Aerobotics
Cathay Innovation
Cathay Innovation is a global venture capital firm that supports entrepreneurs by connecting them to a worldwide ecosystem. The firm invests in multi-stage startups that are making a positive impact through technology. Their focus includes sectors such as AI, healthcare, and sustainable delivery solutions. Intended clients include innovative startups looking for funding and strategic support to scale their operations.
Naspers
Naspers Limited is a South African multinational technology and internet company that invests in and operates a wide range of digital platforms globally. The company focuses on ecommerce, online services, and digital entertainment, partnering with and funding innovative businesses. Through its subsidiaries and investments, Naspers provides technology-driven solutions that connect people, enhance commerce, and foster growth in emerging and developed markets worldwide.
4Di Capital
4Di Capital is a Cape Town-based venture capital fund management firm that focuses on early-stage technology investments in sub-Saharan Africa. The firm invests in Africa-based entrepreneurs who are developing solutions for both regional and global markets. With a commitment to building and scaling an African venture ecosystem, 4Di Capital has deployed $37 million across two funds and invested in 50 companies. Their mission is to support innovative startups and help founders transition from garage to global.
What's next for Aerobotics?
The substantial enterprise-level funding and recent strategic investment position Aerobotics for accelerated expansion and further technological development. This capital infusion is expected to fuel the company's global scaling efforts, enhance its AI-driven analytics capabilities, and broaden its service offerings to farmers worldwide. Aerobotics is poised to further solidify its leadership in precision agriculture, driving efficiency and sustainability in crop management through its data-driven insights and advanced drone and satellite technology.
See full Aerobotics company page
