Kilter, a Norway-based AgTech company focused on autonomous precision weeding systems, has raised €6.5 million in new funding to support its next stage of growth and prepare for a future Series B round.
The financing includes a strategic investment from Kubota Corporation, the Osaka-headquartered agricultural machinery manufacturer with a global footprint across Europe, Asia, the Americas, and Oceania. Additional backing came from SBG Invest, Pymwymic, Nufarm, Halden Pensjonskasse, ProAgInvest, Natural Ventures, and several existing shareholders.
What The Company Does
Kilter develops autonomous robotic systems designed to improve weed management in agriculture through highly targeted and data-driven spraying. Its technology integrates robotics, artificial intelligence, and precision droplet application to reduce chemical usage while maintaining crop productivity and operational efficiency.
The company’s flagship product, the AX-1, is an ultra-high precision weeding robot built for row and bed crops, particularly in vegetable farming. Using advanced imaging systems and AI-based detection, the robot identifies weeds and applies micro-doses of herbicide with an accuracy of approximately 6 by 6 millimeters. This selective application approach enables farmers to minimize chemical inputs while preserving crop health and yield.
The system is intended to address structural challenges in modern agriculture, including labor shortages, rising input costs, and increasingly strict regulations around pesticide use. By automating weed control and improving application accuracy, Kilter positions its platform as a scalable alternative to traditional blanket spraying methods.
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Market Context / Industry Background
Demand for precision agriculture technologies has increased across Europe and other advanced farming markets, driven by sustainability targets, regulatory pressure on agrochemical usage, and the need to improve farm efficiency. Autonomous field robotics is emerging as a key segment within AgTech, particularly for labor-intensive tasks such as weeding and crop monitoring.
European farmers are facing tighter environmental regulations and higher production costs, creating incentives to adopt solutions that reduce chemical dependency while maintaining productivity. Precision spraying systems, which apply inputs only where needed, are gaining traction as part of broader efforts to transition toward more sustainable farming practices.
Strategic partnerships between AgTech startups and established agricultural equipment manufacturers are also becoming more common, as legacy players seek access to robotics and AI innovation while startups benefit from industrial expertise and distribution networks.
Founder / Investor Commentary
Kilter originated in 2015 as a robotics initiative within Adigo Mechatronics, an innovation and design company, before being spun out as an independent entity in 2020 to commercialize its nozzle and precision spraying technology.
Managing Director Kristoffer Magnor stated that the continued participation of existing shareholders reflects long-term confidence in the company’s trajectory. He noted that Kubota’s strategic involvement strengthens the ownership structure and supports both disciplined expansion and global ambitions as Kilter enters its next growth phase.
From the investor perspective, Kubota emphasized the strategic relevance of precision automation in agriculture. Miquel Albareda, Manager of Corporate Development at Kubota Corporation, said the company sees Kilter’s platform as a strong solution for helping farmers manage weeds more efficiently and sustainably, adding that the investment aligns with Kubota’s broader strategy of supporting innovative agricultural technologies on a global scale.
Growth Plans / Use Of Funds
The newly secured capital will be used to accelerate commercial expansion, product development, and international market entry as the company prepares for a larger Series B financing round. A significant portion of the funding is expected to support scaling production capacity and enhancing the performance of its autonomous weeding systems.
Kilter also plans to leverage Kubota’s industrial expertise, market knowledge, and global distribution capabilities to expand beyond its current regional footprint. The partnership is intended to facilitate faster entry into new agricultural markets while strengthening operational scalability.
Since entering commercial operation in 2021, the company has deployed its technology with farmers across Northern Europe and is actively expanding into additional international markets. Its systems are currently used in countries including Norway, Sweden, Germany, and the Netherlands for crops such as carrots, onions, lettuce, and beets.
About Kilter
Kilter is an AgTech company developing autonomous precision weeding robots for sustainable agriculture. Founded in 2020 as a spin-out from Adigo Mechatronics. Headquartered in Norway. The company’s core mission is to enable efficient, scalable, and environmentally responsible farming through AI-driven robotics and targeted spraying technology.s next generation of founders and innovators.
