Cambridge-based agtech startup Dogtooth Technologies has secured over £14m in growth capital to scale the commercial deployment of its AI-powered fruit-harvesting robots.
The funding round is a blend of equity from 24Haymarket, EMV Capital, and ACF Investors, alongside grants from Innovate UK and a venture leasing facility from Kineo Finance.
Founded in 2014, Dogtooth develops “embodied AI” autonomous robotic systems that combine computer vision and precision manipulation to navigate complex agricultural environments. The technology allows machines to identify and harvest delicate crops without damaging them.
The Cambridge firm will use the fresh capital injection to accelerate international expansion and expand its commercial deployment, which already includes supplying systems to Dyson Farming.
The investment comes as global horticulture faces acute, persistent seasonal labour shortages and rising operational costs.
“For many years, robotic harvesting has been viewed as a distant aspiration,” said Duncan Robertson, chief executive of Dogtooth Technologies.
“Today, growers are deploying our robots on commercial farms because labour shortages are a reality that cannot be ignored.
“The convergence of AI, robotics and practical customer demand is creating a unique opportunity to transform the production of fruit and vegetable produce.”
Paul Tselentis, Managing Director, 24 Haymarket: “Dogtooth has established itself as one of the world’s leading agricultural robotics companies through a combination of deep technical expertise, perseverance, and commercial focus.
“The team has achieved what many believed would be impossible: reliably harvesting delicate crops in real-world commercial environments. We are delighted to support the company’s next phase of growth.”
