FOR STARTUPS

Teams that opt into the Farm Robotics Challenge Startup pathway may be considered for a $100,000 SAFE investment from Reservoir VC. The award will recognize a high-potential project developing a practical, scalable solution in agricultural robotics, rugged AI, autonomy, precision agriculture, or related technologies.

Reservoir VC invests in early-stage companies building field-ready AI and robotics solutions for agriculture. The selected team may also gain exposure to Reservoir VC’s network of growers, industry partners, and real-world testing resources. Startup pathway participation is optional and does not affect a team’s competition standing.

Reservoir VC, an early-stage agtech venture capital firm, will make a $100,000 SAFE (Simple Agreement for Future Equity) investment for the winner of the 2027 Farm Robotics Challenge Startup Grand Prize Award. 

This prize represents a significant opportunity for the winning team to accelerate their agricultural robotics venture beyond the competition.

This partnership signifies Reservoir VC’s commitment to supporting the next generation of agricultural innovators and helping transform breakthrough university research into market-ready solutions that address critical farming challenges.

Teams interested in learning more about the Reservoir VC’s agricultural technology focus and investment philosophy can visit https://reservoir.vc/ for additional information about their mission to bridge the gap between deep tech R&D and commercial deployment in precision agriculture. The investment is subject to Reservoir VC’s due diligence process and approval by its investment committee. 

What is a SAFE Agreement?

A SAFE (Simple Agreement for Future Equity) is a financial instrument developed by Y Combinator that allows investors to provide capital to startups in exchange for the right to receive equity at a future date. Unlike traditional debt instruments, SAFEs do not accrue interest or have maturity dates, making them attractive for early-stage startups.

Key Features of the SAFE Investment

Investment Amount: $100,000

Flexibility: SAFEs provide startups with funding without requiring immediate valuation determination or equity issuance, allowing teams to focus on product development and market validation.

No Interest or Maturity: Unlike convertible notes, the SAFE does not accumulate interest or have a mandatory repayment date.

Conversion Terms: The SAFE will convert to equity during the startup's next priced funding round or upon a liquidity event, at a discount rate and with a valuation cap as agreed upon between Reservoir VC and the winning team.

UC Non-Involvement

The University of California and UC Agriculture and Natural Resources are not parties to the SAFE investment agreement in any capacity. The SAFE investment terms, conditions, and execution are solely between Reservoir VC and the winning team. UC assumes no responsibility, liability, or involvement in:

●      Negotiation of SAFE terms

●      Legal documentation or execution

●      Investment performance or outcomes

●      Dispute resolution between parties

●      Compliance with securities, or other applicable, regulations

UC and UC ANR encourage the winning team to consult with their own legal, financial, and other appropriate advisors.

Independent Agreement

The SAFE investment represents a separate, independent business transaction that occurs outside the scope of the Farm Robotics Challenge competition, the terms of which are negotiated between Reservoir VC and the winning team. The winning team's acceptance of the Startup Grand Prize Award does not create any obligation to accept the SAFE investment offer.

Next Steps for Winning Team

The winning team of the 2027 Farm Robotics Challenge Startup Grand Prize Award will be contacted directly by the Reservoir VC to discuss:

1. SAFE investment terms and conditions

2. Legal documentation - the team will need to incorporate a for-profit legal entity

3. Timeline for decision making and agreement execution

4. Reporting - a structured reporting cadence to track progress and impact

5.     Other terms as applicable

University of California students participating in the Farm Robotics Challenge competition remain subject to UC policies regarding development and ownership of intellectual property. Students of other institutions may be subject to their home institution’s policies, and should consult with their home institutions regarding any questions related to such policies.