SwarmFarm Robotics, founded in 2012 by Andrew and Jocie Bate in a rural Queensland paddock, has evolved from a visionary startup into a trailblazing force in agricultural automation. Headquartered in Toowoomba, the company is dedicated to unlocking “Integrated Autonomy” – a seamless fusion of small, intelligent machines and advanced technology to transform traditional farming practices. By developing lightweight, modular robotic systems, SwarmFarm addresses the labor shortages, rising costs, and environmental pressures facing modern agriculture, empowering farmers with tools that enhance decision-making and operational efficiency. With a team of engineers, agronomists, and farmers, the company has grown to serve broadacre operations across Australia, positioning itself as a key innovator in the global push toward sustainable food production.

At the heart of SwarmFarm’s offerings are the SwarmBots, a fleet of autonomous, electric-powered robots designed for versatile, precision tasks in crop production. These compact machines, weighing just 300kg each, perform operations such as targeted spraying, weeding, mowing, seeding, and nutrient application with pinpoint accuracy, operating 24/7 under farmer oversight via intuitive software interfaces. Unlike bulky traditional equipment, SwarmBots minimize soil compaction and enable data-driven insights through integrated sensors and AI, allowing for customized fleet configurations that scale from a few units to hundreds. This modular approach not only reduces downtime and fuel consumption but also integrates with existing farm machinery, making adoption straightforward and cost-effective for growers of all sizes.

Sustainability is woven into the fabric of SwarmFarm’s technology, aligning with Australia’s commitment to regenerative agriculture and reduced environmental footprints. By enabling spot-treatment of weeds and pests, the robots drastically cut herbicide and pesticide use – up to 90% in some cases – while preventing soil erosion and preserving biodiversity through lighter machinery that avoids deep rutting. These innovations support carbon sequestration efforts and water efficiency, contributing to lower emissions and healthier ecosystems. SwarmFarm’s collaborative R&D with universities and government bodies further amplifies this impact, fostering practices that build resilient farms capable of withstanding climate variability.

SwarmFarm Robotics has captured positive headlines in early October 2025 with the announcement of a landmark $30 million AUD Series B funding round, led by impact investor Edaphon and supported by existing backers like QIC and Main Sequence Ventures. This infusion of capital, following a $12 million Series A in 2023, will supercharge the scaling of its autonomous SwarmBot fleet and deepen penetration into North American markets, where demand for labor-saving agtech is surging. The raise validates the company’s proven track record – with deployments already transforming hundreds of thousands of hectares – and signals strong investor confidence in its potential to redefine global farming efficiency and sustainability. As it eyes U.S. expansion, SwarmFarm is not just funding growth but accelerating a greener, smarter future for agriculture worldwide.

Source: https://www.swarmfarm.com