British agritech startup Elaniti has closed a funding round that aims to accelerate the development of its soon-to-launch flagship product, a digital tool enabling agribusinesses to decode the microbial composition of soil.
Using AI and DNA sequencing, the tool enables farmers to optimise productivity in both the short term and long term while reducing reliance on synthetic inputs. This could be crucial in transitioning to sustainable, regenerative agriculture and a more plant-based food system.
Participants in the funding round included biotope by VIB, Planetary Impact Ventures, and Paulig Group’s CVC arm, PINC. The round adds to non-dilutive funding received by the company from Innovate UK in January, bringing the total amount raised to €1.5 million.
Elaniti will use the funding to strengthen its team and expand its research efforts to accelerate the launch of its predictive analytics platform. The company will also continue to partner with agribusiness leaders to ensure its insights are applicable in real-world conditions.
“The foundation of our food system”
Elaniti’s technology aims to address an important knowledge gap in agriculture. The chemical and physical properties of soil are often measured, but there is currently little knowledge of the biological activity of the microbes that drive soil health. By linking microbial data to factors such as yield and disease pressure, Elaniti could help farmers build healthier, more resilient soils, potentially allowing countries to become more self-sufficient.
Worldwide, there is growing interest in the concept of regenerative agriculture as a way of improving soil health and biodiversity. ADM runs a program providing financial and technical support to European farmers adopting regenerative agriculture practices, while QuornPro and Levy UK + Ireland have supported a regenerative farm in North Yorkshire, UK.
“Soil is the foundation of our food system, but modern agriculture has strained its health,” said Elaniti CEO Scott Jarrett. “The soil microbiome holds the key to restoring fertility, resilience, and reducing reliance on synthetic inputs. By unlocking its potential, we can help farmers produce food sustainably while regenerating the land for future generations.”
