Deutsche Messe's Hermes Award went to a product by young Indonesian startup Mitra Sejahtera Membangun Bangsa that consists of a sensor network, database and app that together enable farmers to fertilize and irrigate their fields based on weather and soil conditions. It provides farmers with real-time information about expected soil and weather conditions. Artificial intelligence continuously improves predictions and subsequent recommendations. Benefits include increased yield and quality of agricultural products as well as reduced use of fertilizer and water.
The presentation of the first Hermes Startup Award took place on as part of the Hannover Messe Digital Days.
"Startups are true innovation catalyzers: As bridges between research and industry, they quickly turn new developments and technologies into applications and bring these to market" said Dr. Reimund Neugebauer, president of the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft and chair of the jury. "I am pleased to recognize Mitra Sejahtera Membangun Bangsa as a company that has used an AI solution to address several current challenges at once, including food quality and efficient use of fertilizer and resources."
Deutsche Messe annually presents the Hermes Startup Award to a company no more than five years old; the product or solution must feature a high level of technological innovation. In 2021, the winner will be honored at the Hannover Messe opening ceremony.
