Season 10 Episode 137 —From Seed to Harvest: How Rooted Robotics is Transforming Small-Scale Farming
A conversation with Max Knight and Eric Roth of Rooted Robotics
In this episode, I speak with Max Knight and Eric Roth, the Co-founders of Rooted Robotics. We dive into their journey from meeting at a large-scale vertical farm to starting their own company focused on affordable automation solutions for small and medium-sized farms. Max shares how his passion for robotics and engineering led to the creation of Rooted Robotics, while Eric discusses his extensive experience in the Agtech space and how it has shaped their approach to solving labor challenges in vertical farming.
We also explore the evolution of their business model, the importance of understanding unit economics, and the innovative products they are developing to help farmers increase efficiency and profitability. Max and Eric’s insights into the industry, combined with their genuine desire to support and collaborate with other farmers, make this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of vertical farming and agricultural technology.
Join us for an engaging conversation that highlights the practical solutions and real-world experiences driving success in the Agtech industry.
Special thanks to our Season 10 Sponsor:
Indoor AgTech Innovation Summit
Key Takeaways
- 5:46 Lessons from Kalera
- 15:30 Microgreens Seeder Innovation
- 19:43 Supporting Small and Medium-Sized Farms
- 24:46 Challenges Faced by Small Farm Owners
- 31:02 Maximilian and Eric’s Comprehensive Farming Business Insights
- 35:05 AI and Robotics in Agriculture
- 38:27 Computer Vision in Vertical Farming
- 47:01 Balancing Custom Projects and Core Products
- 51:22 Advice for New Growers in the Industry
Tweetables
“We saw that labor is one of the biggest operating expenses of these facilities. There needs to be a middle ground where you do a lot of automation, but more affordably.”
“The biggest lesson learned, especially when scaling, is understanding you might not have to automate your entire system on day one, but you need to plan for it.”
“We need more collaboration and openness in the industry. A rising tide lifts all ships, and we need to create more positive stories about successful businesses.”
Links Mentioned
Website — https://www.rootedrobotics.com/
Youtube — https://www.youtube.com/@RootedRobotics
Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/rootedrobotics/
Max’s LinkedIn — https://linkedin.com/in/maximilianknight
Eric’s LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericdroth/
Bio520
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