Emerald leads funding round for water conserver Kilimo

Cordoba, Argentina-based Kilimo aims to help farmers using “volumetric water benefits” that can create value by conserving resources, protecting the environment, and maintaining agricultural operations that require water. The company leverages AI and other technologies for efficient irrigation management, converting irrigation systems to more sustainable approaches, and regenerative agriculture, according to a June 19 press release.

“We are deeply committed to supporting companies’ efforts to meet water conservation goals,” said Kilimo Chief Executive and Co-Founder Jairo Trad.

The company has helped more than 2,000 farmers in seven Latin American countries save 72 billion liters of water. Its Irrigation Academy has trained more than 120,000 farmers in water conservation best practices, too. Its customers also include big companies like Coca-Cola, Intel, and Microsoft.

Now, Zurich, Switzerland-based Emerald Technology Ventures led a $7.5 million funding round for Kilimo. The Yield Lab Latam, Salkantay Ventures, Kamay Ventures, and iThink VC also contributed to the financing.

Helge Daebel, who oversees water projects at Emerald Technology Ventures and who will have a seat on Kilimo’s board, said the fresh capital will help Kilimo expand its offerings globally.

“We are impressed by [Kilimo’s] groundbreaking work building a bridge between water consumption, technology adoption in a difficult space, and the corporations that are exposed to local water risks,” said Daebel. “This type of bridging approach is driving much needed behavioral change, leading to a more sustainable future of water use in food production.” ce/jd