Robots Revolutionize Fertilizer Use for Farmers

Upside Robotics, founded in 2024, is revolutionizing crop fertilization with autonomous robots. These solar-powered machines deliver precise amounts of fertilizer and nutrients, drastically reducing waste. Initially focusing on corn, one of the most fertilizer-intensive crops, the company's proprietary software uses soil and weather data to determine optimal application timing and amounts. This approach cuts fertilizer use by 70%, saving customers approximately $150 per acre annually. The company experienced rapid growth, expanding from 70 acres in 2024 to 1,200 acres in 2025, and is set to cover over 3,000 acres in the upcoming 2026 season. Upside Robotics has achieved a remarkable 100% customer retention rate since its start. The company recently raised $7.5 million in seed funding, led by Plural, with participation from Garage Capital and Clearpath Robotics founders. This investment will support ongoing research and development and help meet increasing demand, with over 200 farms currently on their waitlist. Upside Robotics also plans to expand into the U.S. corn belt from its base in Canada. The founders emphasized that farmers are eager to adopt new solutions when a clear return on investment is demonstrated.