North America: AI-assisted international press reviewPress review

Cascade Energy Enhances Agricultural Energy Flexibility with Yield Energy Acquisition

American company Cascade Energy strengthens its position in energy flexibility by acquiring Yield Energy, a California startup that transforms agricultural equipment – irrigation pumps, cold storage, and solar panels – into resources capable of adjusting their consumption based on the needs of the electrical grid.

Silvec Biologics Receives EPA Approval for RNA Therapy for Citrus

Silvec Biologics has received approval from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for an RNA therapy aimed at combating Huanglongbing (HLB), the disease devastating citrus orchards. The technology employs a non-transmissible form of the tristeza virus to deliver the treatment to trees, without genetic modification of the plant, paving the way for commercial deployment by late 2026 and potential applications in other crops.

Proxy Foods AI raises six million dollars for its food R&D platform

The United States Approves GMO Corn Tolerant to Four Herbicides ⭐

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced the deregulation of Monsanto's MON 87429 corn, a genetically modified variety designed to withstand multiple herbicides. This decision, based on a thorough assessment of phytosanitary risks, could facilitate the production of hybrid corn seeds. Documents related to this assessment will be publicly accessible starting August 2026.

Upstream Biotechnology Secures Funding for SwitchBlade Platform

Upstream Biotechnology, Inc., a leader in plant biotechnology, has announced the closing of a seed funding round for its SwitchBlade platform, aimed at enhancing crop resistance to diseases while maintaining optimal yields. This funding, led by LeVert Ventures and supported by major players like Corteva, will accelerate the development of innovative gene regulation technologies, essential for addressing the growing environmental challenges faced by farmers.

Genvor Develops Antimicrobial Peptides for Sugar Beet Research

American biotech company Genvor is evaluating its antimicrobial peptides in a research program focused on sugar beets, in partnership with the USDA's Agricultural Research Service (ARS). The goal is to better control microbial contamination throughout the production chain, from field to processing, in order to improve yields and the sustainability of the sector.

Agragene Partners with Pairwise to Use CRISPR for Pest Control

American biotechnology company Agragene has teamed up with fellow U.S. firm Pairwise to integrate the Fulcrum® CRISPR platform into its technology for controlling spotted wing drosophila. This approach, based on the production of sterile male insects, aims to provide fruit producers with a more targeted biocontrol solution against a pest that has become difficult to manage with conventional insecticides.

USDA Mobilizes Partners to Accelerate Plant Innovation Through AI

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is calling for collaboration with universities and industry stakeholders to develop artificial intelligence tools. These tools aim to analyze the vast germplasm data collected, enabling the rapid identification of key plant traits and improving crop productivity. This project is part of the Genesis Mission, a national initiative to accelerate scientific discoveries in agriculture through AI.

Switch Bioworks Tests Nitrogen-Fixing Microbes for Corn Cultivation

American biotech company Switch Bioworks has launched field trials to test nitrogen-fixing microbes designed to colonize corn roots and activate ammonia production. This innovation aims to reduce the use of synthetic fertilizers while maintaining agricultural yields. The trials, taking place in the American Midwest, seek to establish the viability of these microbes under variable field conditions, with a commercialization goal set for two to three years. This approach could transform the fertilizer sector by providing a more sustainable and cost-effective alternative.

Launch of a Genomic Selection Project for Peas in Canada

Protein Industries Canada, a Canadian organization supporting innovation in plant proteins, has launched a two-year project aimed at creating a national database on peas to assist breeders. Artificial intelligence will be employed to integrate various data sources and accelerate the development of new varieties, as part of a $1.8 million investment.