Information on the Target

Supernova Invest, in collaboration with the Crédit Agricole Group, has launched a specialized innovation capital fund focusing on agri-agro tech. The fund has successfully completed its first closing at €60 million, with a target size of €100 million. This initiative aims to garner support from third-party investors, including industrialists and institutional investors, to bolster French and European agrifood technology leaders.

This fund represents a combined vision to accelerate the transition of French agri-agro sectors. Supernova Invest brings its extensive investment experience in the agri-agro tech space, while Crédit Agricole leverages its close connection to the farming community, representing more than 80% of farmers in France. Together, they aim to foster the most promising start-ups crucial for advancing the competitiveness and sustainability of the agri-food industry across various spatial levels - local, national, and European.

Industry Overview in France

The agri-agro tech sector in France is burgeoning with innovation and investment, marking its position as one of the leading European countries in this domain. A diverse range of technologies forms the foundation of agri-agro tech, encompassing biotech, hardware, and artificial intelligence. These sectors are essential for enhancing productivity and sustainability, responding effectively to the evolving challenges of climate change and resource management.

Moreover, the sector is undergoing transformation towards sustainability, actively working to promote a circular economy within agricultural practices. This strategic transition aims to implement low-carbon diets and preserve natural resources, ensuring the longevity and resilience of farming practices. As a result, both technological innovation and robust investment are vital to establishing sustainable systems.

In recent years, France has experienced a significant upswing in agri-agro tech start-ups, bolstering its market position both regionally and globally. With increased investment flowing into these start-ups, France is attracting attention and resources to refine its agricultural methodologies, thereby maintaining its competitiveness on the international stage.

As the need for sustainable practices escalates, France’s agri-agro tech sector stands at the forefront, empowered by innovation that supports viability and growth. The drive towards improving food systems through enhanced technology underscores the significance of investment in this sector.

The Rationale Behind the Deal

The establishment of the agri-agro tech fund stems from a recognized need to enhance technological innovation within the agricultural sector. The growing challenges posed by climate change, sustainability requirements, and the need for increased productivity necessitate a significant investment in innovative solutions. By capitalizing on emerging technologies, this fund aims to galvanize the development of agri-tech solutions that resonate with these pressing market demands.

Additionally, this collaboration aims to leverage the tremendous potential within the agri-agro tech landscape to secure France’s industrial leadership. By focusing on technologies that promote sustainability and resilience, the fund will not only support the current generation of agri-tech start-ups but also ensure the future of France’s agrifood industry is robust and competitive.

Information About the Investor

Supernova Invest is a leading venture capital firm specializing in deeptech investments, with a proven track record of success in supporting innovation across various sectors, particularly in agri-agro tech. The firm’s extensive experience and institutional expertise in investing in high-potential start-ups provide a strong basis for the successful management of the new agri-agro tech fund.

Meanwhile, Crédit Agricole Group stands out as a key player in the agricultural sector, acting as the principal bank for farmers in France. Their commitment to sustainable agriculture and socio-economic development aligns perfectly with the fund’s objectives. This partnership enhances the fund's strategic position, ensuring successful investor engagement and impactful outcomes for the agri-agro community.

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This investment by Supernova Invest and Crédit Agricole represents a timely and strategic response to the escalating demands faced by the agricultural sector. Given the intricate challenges of transitioning to sustainable practices while maintaining productivity, this fund could prove to be a pivotal resource in developing innovative agri-tech solutions.

The deep existing knowledge of both partners in the agri-agro space gives this fund a competitive edge in identifying and nurturing high-potential start-ups. By focusing on funding transformative R&D projects and connecting innovators with the agricultural landscape, the fund is positioned to support the growth of a vital industry at an important juncture.

Furthermore, the clear strategic aim to create a sustainable agri-food system through significant capital investment underlines the fund's potential for fostering essential change within the industry. Promoting sustainable practices not only ensures better food security but also aligns with broader environmental goals, thus amplifying the fund's value for investors committed to responsible growth.

In conclusion, this thematic fund is adeptly poised to not only address current industry challenges but to also carve a sustainable path for future advancements in agri-agro tech. The collaborative efforts of Supernova Invest and Crédit Agricole mark a commendable step toward optimizing the agricultural sector's trajectory, demonstrating a consolidated approach to building a resilient and competitive agri-food landscape in Europe.

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