Burwell based Delta-T Devices Ltd specialises in instruments for environmental science to investigate the effects of climate change, develop methods that address the requirements of agriculture to feed a growing global population and improve water and fertigation resource management.
Delta-T currently designs and manufactures environmental science instruments in the UK, then sells via a network of distributors in over 80 countries.
The company will use Eastern Agri-Tech Growth Initiative funding to design, fabricate and evaluate a low-cost prototype “WET-50” sensor, which has the ability to measure soil moisture, temperature and conductivity. Once fully tested, the sensor will be sold and used by researchers and growers alike to measure water-usage and boost their growing potential.
Mark Reeve, Chairman of the Greater Cambridge Greater Peterborough Enterprise Partnership, said:
“We have given Delta T Devices a grant to support an innovative project proposal that will help local farming businesses and scientists to use water more efficiently, boosting crop yields and lowering costs.
“As a successful supplier of environmental science equipment to companies all over the world, I am pleased to be able to offer them support to develop their prototype and help grow the business.”
Martin Goodchild, from Delta T, said:
“The success of Delta-T Devices relies on creating innovative products that stand out from the crowd – and we invest heavily in research and development. Therefore, to secure such a large grant is a huge boost for us. The money will go towards developing a ground-breaking and cost effective new sensor – one that will help commercial growers optimise crop irrigation and fertigation to improve the yield and quality of vegetables and fruit – as well as helping to reduce resource wastage.”
The Eastern Agri-Tech Growth Initiative is run by the Greater Cambridge Greater Peterborough Enterprise Partnership (LEP) with support from New Anglia LEP, Norfolk County Council, Cambridgeshire County Council, and the local authorities covering this area.
Grants are available to organisations looking to invest in specialist equipment, new market and supply chain development, ways to improve productivity and efficiency, and the application and commercialisation of Research and Development.
To find out how the Eastern Agri-Tech Growth Initiative could help to grow your business, visit www.agritechgrants.co.uk or call the LEP on 01480 277180.
