Digital agriculture: a breath of fresh air for small businesses!

Digital agriculture: a breath of fresh air for small businesses!

In the context of advancing digitalization in agriculture, the research project “Digital value chains for sustainable, small-scale agriculture” (DiWenkLa) was launched. This project, by the University of Hohenheim and the Nürtingen-Geislingen University of Economics and Environment (HfWU), has the aim of supporting small agricultural businesses in digitalization. In particular, the competitiveness, sustainability and animal welfare in these companies should be increased. At the same time, attention is drawn to the danger that small and medium-sized companies could be left behind in digitalization.

Some of the methods being investigated as part of this project include the use of drones for early detection of plant diseases and the use of autonomous robots to precisely plant young vegetable plants. The use of artificial intelligence (AI) to calculate the feed requirements of pasture cattle shows the potential of digitalization. These modern technologies are intended not only to conserve resources, but also to improve animal welfare and reduce operating costs.

Project details and implementation

DiWenkLa consists of 14 sub-projects that examine various options for digitalization for smaller companies. A crucial aspect of this project is the adaptation of market-available solutions to minimize acquisition costs. Collaboration between companies is also proposed, comparable to the concept of a machine ring. Particular attention is paid to the increasing demands of consumers with regard to animal welfare and sustainability.

A central topic is the supply of feed to high-performance cows in line with their needs and performance, supported by instruments that analyze the quality of forage and plan supplementary feeding. The use of optical sensors on drones also enables early detection of plant diseases, while AI contributes to the targeted control of pests. Multifunctional robots in particular, such as the Phoenix, plant young plants precisely and in a way that protects the soil.

The project was financed with around 5.5 million euros and was completed in February 2025. To carry it out, 11 departments at the University of Hohenheim, 20 agricultural businesses and numerous other business partners have come together.

Current challenges and government initiatives

Digitalization is not just an opportunity, it also brings with it challenges. The Federal Ministry of Agriculture (BMEL) actively shapes the framework conditions for digital transformation in agriculture. It is noted that digitalization increases sustainability and productivity in agriculture while facilitating work processes.

In-depth analyzes show that digitalized processes can lead to lower use of fertilizer, pesticides and energy. Digital applications such as weather apps and drones are improving both tillage and harvesting practices. In addition, feeding robots and climate control systems enable significant progress in animal welfare and environmental protection.

The ministry has already taken measures to expand digital infrastructure in rural areas and promote the use of geospatial and weather data. Rooms intended for experimental areas are intended to test technical solutions and support digital transformation. Measures to further educate and train farmers are also being implemented to make efficient use of these new technologies.

In a broader perspective, digital transformation shows that it is not only already integrated into the administration and accounting of many companies, but is also driving the improvement of arable and grassland management. Similarly, Austria shows how Ministry of Agriculture, Regions and Tourism actively promotes digitalization with initiatives and innovation farm projects.

Overall, digitalization in agriculture shows great potential for increasing efficiency and achieving sustainability goals, with both support for businesses and access to new technologies playing a central role.