Agribusiness, as many know, is the industry – an active field of study and action, in its own right – wherein agriculture-based business operations are conducted on continually evolving commercial principles (and with advanced technologies, to boot). Examples include biofuel makers, farm machinery producers, farmers’ co-ops, food processing, livestock management, and smart fleet/distribution processes for myriad farm-based goods.
In this vein, agribusiness and IoT often blend quite well. In the past, farming traditionally relied on individual experience and well-earned intuition. Now, IoT sensors are capable of collecting real-time data on soil moisture, temperature, crop health and so on. This data enables farmers to make incredibly precise decisions about irrigation, fertilization, pest control, resource optimization, you name it. IoT-wise, those involved in agribusiness can tap into networks of sensors and full-blown automation tools to improve productivity, maximize yield, and keep sustainability at the forefront.
And when we look at further agricultural truths laid bare, this becomes even more important.
Why?
Well, labor shortages and food safety concerns (plus exacerbated climate crises) create multitudes of challenges for farmers. That’s the key here; giving farmers what they need to overcome challenges in the modern age. Agribusiness-centric teams that dedicate efforts to help farmers access more reliable solutions for local consumers, national supply chains and the global food ecosystem are promoting models for bona fide change; particularly as harvest gains teeter-totter and the hunt of capable workers continues.
Enter Monarch Tractor, a company designed with, founded by and built for farmers today.
With key locations in California, Ohio, India and Singapore, Monarch makes its M.O. very clear – empower teams with the tech necessary for profitable precision farming and sustainability-focused initiatives. (While, of course, reducing operational expenses, cutting down on fuel costs, minimizing inputs, and expanding safety standards that maximize farming potential.)
This is why Monarch Tractor announced its strategic partnership with Verizon Business – to support sustainable farming practices, specifically via Monarch’s autonomous tractors and Verizon’s network.
According to the official announcement, “Monarch will harness Verizon’s technology to keep its autonomous tractors connected in even the most remote agricultural landscapes.” Instead of old school broadband, Verizon’s connectivity capabilities will suit well the farmlands, vineyards and orchards currently served by Monarch.
“The premise of Monarch Tractor has been centered around delivering farm machinery that drives farmer profitability and planet sustainability at scale,” said Praveen Penmetsa, CEO and co-founder of Monarch Tractor. “Leveraging Verizon’s connectivity solutions has been integral to making the MK-V tractor’s smart, sustainable technology accessible to customers in remote farming communities, allowing us to bring the latest in electrification and autonomy into the hands of farmers across the U.S.”
Adding to this, Verizon Business CRO Aparna Khurjekar described how “Monarch Tractor is an example of what happens when an innovative customer leverages our class network and shows the power and versatility of our wireless network. By providing connectivity to their autonomous tractors, we are enabling Monarch Tractor’s mission to redefine an industry, bringing greater data-driven decision-making to the agricultural sector.”
Learn more about Monarch’s MK-V electric tractor and its other solutions (like the Wingspan AI farm control app) here.
Edited by Greg Tavarez
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