Emerging innovation patterns in digital agriculture: A study of 198 digital solutions from 116 startups

Abstract

To tackle humanity's food challenge, agricultural companies need to exploit technological advancements by innovating their business models. Solution business model patterns (SBMPs) play a central role in business model innovation. However, the current literature on SBMPs is outdated and has not been adapted for the field of agriculture. By analyzing 198 digital solutions from 116 agriculture startups, we identify 18 SBMPs, nine of which have not been identified in any previous research. We thus significantly expand the existing literature on SBMPs and outline the technological drivers of emerging SBMPs. Furthermore, putting the 18 identified SBMPs into the context of agriculture will help agricultural companies innovate their business models. Three SBMPs with high potential to tackle humanity’s food challenges are further discussed.