Kilkenny Agri Innovators Earn Innovation Awards at Ploughing Event

Two innovative agricultural companies from Kilkenny, Beotanics and Feedlync, received the prestigious “Certificate of Achievement for Innovation” at the 2025 Innovation Arena Awards. This recognition took place at the National Ploughing Championships held on September 20, 2023, which featured a gathering of industry leaders and innovators.

The awards ceremony was attended by Jenny Melia, CEO of Enterprise Ireland, and Minister Alan Dillon, who presented the accolades to the honored companies. Both Beotanics and Feedlync were among nine Irish-owned firms that showcased their groundbreaking solutions through live pitches to an audience and a panel of judges.

Celebrating Innovation in Agriculture

The competition featured three distinct categories, with the finalists vying for recognition in the fast-evolving agricultural sector. ScanInsights, a company based in Cork, secured the title of “Start-Up Innovator of the Year,” along with a cash prize of €10,000. The “Green Impact Award” was awarded to GlasPort Bio, a Galway-based innovator recognized for their sustainable practices. The highly coveted title of “2025 Innovation Arena Champion Award” went to Herdwatch, a firm from Tipperary that has made significant strides in agricultural management.

A total of eight companies, including Beotanics and Feedlync, were honored with the “Certificate of Achievement for Innovation” for meeting the minimum qualifying score. The other companies recognized were Biocel, Bua Terra Limited, CORE Technology, Munster Bovine, Reap Interactive, and SpreadPoint. This recognition highlights the growing emphasis on innovation within the Irish agricultural landscape.

Impact of the Awards

The 2025 Innovation Arena Awards serve as a platform to celebrate and encourage innovation among Irish agri-tech companies. By providing a space for startups and established firms to present their ideas, the awards stimulate growth and collaboration in a sector that is vital to Ireland’s economy. The recognition of these companies not only boosts their visibility but also underscores the importance of advancements in agriculture.

As the agricultural sector faces increasing challenges, including climate change and food security, initiatives like the Innovation Arena are crucial. They encourage companies to develop creative solutions that can enhance productivity and sustainability. The achievements of Beotanics and Feedlync exemplify the potential for innovation to transform the industry.

Moving forward, these awards will likely continue to inspire other companies to pursue innovative practices, fostering a culture of excellence in the agricultural sector. The participation of industry leaders and government officials at events like the National Ploughing Championships further emphasizes the importance of supporting innovation and collaboration among agricultural innovators.