THE newly formed Devon Agri-Tech Alliance group is holding a series of free events, starting on November 18.

The events aim to connect farmers and other agricultural businesses with agri-tech developers and research organisations.

The Alliance was established as part of the DATA (Devon Agri-Tech Accelerator) project in order to help make innovation more accessible for Devon’s agriculture sector.

They hope that this will help shape and test future research and innovation, ensuring that new developments are both practical and relevant.

Its inaugural Farm Innovation Event, which will be held from 10am-2pm on Friday 18 November at Upton Farm, near Cullompton, will be an opportunity for agricultural businesses to hear first-hand about new technological opportunities and innovative ways of working.

The event could lead to collaborative work to test new ideas, feedback on new technology and help design future research and innovation.

Councillor Rufus Gilbert, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Economic Recovery and Skills, said: ‘This is the first of a series of events and workshops designed to bring together agricultural businesses, agri-tech developers and academic researchers. We are really keen that as many farmers as possible become part of the Alliance.

‘The Alliance will be shaped by its members, so this is an exciting opportunity to help shape the direction it takes and ensure that it is relevant for Devon farmers.

‘The knowledge that everyone involved will gain could directly benefit local agriculture businesses and their future plans.’

Devon County Council is working on the DATA project with Business Information Point, Duchy College Rural Business School, and the University of Plymouth.

The project was launched earlier in the year, to help support the growth of Devon’s agricultural industry, while also reducing the county’s carbon footprint, enhancing farm productivity, supporting the local economy and growing Devon’s agriculture and Agri-Tech business sector.

Councillor Gilbert continued: ‘A flourishing farming industry is vital for our rural communities, and it underpins the region’s food and drink sector which is so important for our local economy.

‘Through research and support, this project is aiming to ensure that agriculture in Devon can benefit from the use of technology, with farming and Agri-Tech communities working closely together.’