Kiwi start-up company CropLogic has won the first IBM SmartCamp Australia and New Zealand, a global programme for start-up companies.
The event represents a growing body of entrepreneurs using business analytics, big data and other software technologies to drive innovation in industries including agriculture, urban design, energy and corporate security.
CropLogic, the only New Zealand finalist, claimed the prize after providing predictive decision support tools to crop growers and processors.
Powered by analytics, CropLogic’s online crop management tool currently helps potato processors and growers, forecast and improve yield and operate more sustainably.
“We are honoured to be named the inaugural winner of IBM SmartCamp ANZ,” says Jane Hill, CEO of CropLogic.
“Our experience at this event has been invaluable. We have gained a lot of very valuable insights from all the mentors and have started to build up a network of contacts that will help us grow our business.”
IBM says the event acts as a crucial incubator for local IT start-ups by providing support, resources and networking as part of IBM’s Global Entrepreneur Program.
While hosting it's first event in ANZ, since global commencement three years ago finalists from 2011 and 2010 have collectively raised more than US$60m in venture capital funding.
“Start-ups like CropLogic face not only typical go-to-market pressures, but also significant developmental challenges which can only be alleviated through access to industry insight and experience,” says David Mast, regional manager, IBM Australia.
“The IBM SmartCamp programme fosters grassroots innovation and gives up-and-coming entrepreneurs access to mentors and advice without having to travel overseas.
"This provides a huge boost to our entrepreneurial culture across the region.”
CropLogic will receive a three month mentorship from IBM, use of IBM software and services, as well as access to industry experts and partners while progressing to the regional SmartCamp event in Beijing against winners from across Asia on September 25-26.