Unlocking the future of farming: why we invested in Ostara

We’re delighted to announce that we’ve led Ostara’s pre-seed round. Ostara has developed software that enables controlled environment farmers to monitor, control, and optimise their operations in real-time. Through sensors the software collects and presents data in an easily digestible format, empowering growers to make better decisions. Ostara connects directly to critical farm systems like irrigation, venting, lights and fans and helps reduce the labor costs, energy and water needed to operate these systems while increasing yield and quality. 

Climate change and social pressure mean the global farming industry is shifting toward more sustainable, efficient, and controlled environments. This means the rise of covered growing spaces like polytunnels and greenhouses has become a big trend. However for many growers, managing these farms remains a labor-intensive task, relying on the intuition of Head Growers rather than data-driven decision-making. With limited access to real-time insights, growers face inefficiencies in water usage, utility management, and labor costs. On average, growers report achieving optimal conditions in their tunnels only 20% of the time, but with the right technology that number could exceed 75%, improving yields and resource utilisation.

This is where Ostara is making a significant impact - by offering a software solution that integrates seamlessly with existing hardware. One pilot client reported saving 40 hours of labor per week on vent control alone. The result is a more efficient, productive farm with lower overhead costs, optimised water use and a reduced environmental footprint.

Ostara’s solution stands out by offering affordability, ease of use and flexibility. Their tech stack is modern, modular, and rooted in six years of experience working with farms, giving it a strong competitive edge. The integration with existing infrastructure makes it accessible for small to medium-sized growers who often face barriers due to high capital expenditure or complicated systems. With its focus on simplicity and compatibility, Ostara empowers farmers to streamline operations and embrace advanced technology — helping them stay competitive and future-ready in an ever-evolving agricultural landscape. 

The company is spearheaded by founders Dan and Adam, an exceptional duo who have recently been travelling the globe, meeting with ministers and growers to showcase Ostara’s potential. You can follow their journey and stay updated on their progress here.

‍