Autonomous Ag Robotics Company Expands Operations to Fargo, Fueling Agriculture Innovation in the Region
Fargo, N.D. (March 5, 2024) – Aigen Inc., a Redmond, Washington-based agriculture robotics company, has announced it is expanding to Fargo, ND with the opening of its new Midwest Regional Operations Center. Aigen has secured space at the NDSU Research & Technology Park’s Technology Incubator where it will establish a robotics lab and launch field operations.
This expansion into Fargo marks Aigen’s first new location outside of its Redmond, Washington headquarters. The company was drawn to the incubator after learning more about the opportunities for university engagement and research and touring the world class innovation studio during a site visit arranged by the Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation (GFMEDC) in August 2023.
“We are so pleased to welcome Aigen to the vibrant AgTech ecosystem that’s thriving here in North Dakota,” said Brenda Wyland, Chief Executive Officer at the NDSU Research & Technology Park, “Aigen’s investment in North Dakota provides an opportunity for collaboration and acceleration locally while creating an impact on food production and security globally.”
Aigen is developing a solution for the herbicide-resistant weeds that impact critical crops like sugar beets and soy. Their breakthrough robotics technology is set to become the only solution to yield-destroying weeds like waterhemp and kochia that operates without dependence on soil-depleting chemicals or expensive diesel fuel. Designed and assembled in America and clocking in under 150 pounds, Aigen’s robots operate autonomously on minimal solar energy, making them a scalable solution for farms of any size.
This strategic expansion marks a significant milestone for Aigen as it continues to drive innovation and efficiency in agriculture. Located in the heart of North Dakota’s agriculture innovation corridor, the new office will serve as a pivotal base for Aigen to strengthen its presence in the region and better serve its growing customer base. Fargo’s vibrant AgTech ecosystem, coupled with its proximity to key agricultural markets, makes it an ideal location for Aigen to expand its operations.
“Aigen’s move to North Dakota is a big step for us to strengthen our commitment to create jobs and build products made in the USA, said Chris Brenner, Aigen Fargo/Minneapolis-based Field Operations Manager, “We care about bringing together farming and technology and this is the heart of the agriculture innovation corridor. The community here shares our dedication to addressing global agricultural challenges directly, boosting farmers’ profitability while prioritizing environmental stewardship. It’s exciting to be part of the community that accelerates the agriculture industry forward, making a positive impact for both farmers and consumers.”
Multiple AgTech ecosystem partners including GFMEDC and Grand Farm began engaging with Aigen founders over three years ago in early 2021. Through continuous engagement, including ecosystem integration and field research with Grand Farm, Aigen has become a presence at many events and has enhanced its connection with partners and growers across the region.
“This is the magic of our ecosystem. We are extremely fortunate to have partners like NDSU and Grand Farm which have created a real center of gravity that is drawing in AgTech innovators from around the globe.” said Ryan Aasheim, Chief Business Development Officer at the GFMEDC, “Tech companies like Aigen will generally follow the path of least resistance which means choosing to scale in places that provide the things they need – growth capital, talent, market opportunities, affordable space, and partnerships. We couldn’t be more thrilled that Aigen, a company at the confluence of two of our three targeted sectors, autonomous systems and agriculture technology, has decided to invest in its future here.”
About Aigen
Aigen connects farmers to breakthrough technologies, decarbonizes agriculture, and improves human and planetary health. The company develops an autonomous, solar-powered robotics platform that manages plants without the chemical inputs that undermine soil’s carbon storage potential by bringing alternatives to conventional practices, allowing farmers to regenerate soil health and deal with the global agriculture manual labor shortage. https://www.aigen.io/
About NDSU Research and Technology Park
NDSU Research & Technology Park (RTP) is home to university researchers and private industry where they combine their talents to develop new technologies, methods, and systems to promote economic development. Scientific and technological advancement is promoted through the development of facilities and research centers conducive to cutting edge research. The park has an established technology incubator which offers space, facilities, and services to technology-based entrepreneurs and businesses. https://ndsuresearchpark.com/
About the GFMEDC
The Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation (GFMEDC) is a catalyst for economic growth and prosperity. Using a comprehensive approach to economic development, the GFMEDC accelerates job and wealth creation in Cass County, ND and Clay County, Minn. www.GFMEDC.com
