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Heritable has received $5 million to develop the Joint AI-driven Smallholder Omics Analytics (JASON) project, which aims to enhance crop resilience in Africa using AI, genomics, and remote sensing. This initiative seeks to identify climate-adapted germplasm and gene targets to improve crop resilience against climate stressors like drought and heat. With Africa's rapid climate changes affecting smallholder farms reliant on rain-fed agriculture, this project is crucial in accelerating the discovery of climate-resilient traits, thereby bolstering food security and reducing risk in the region. The Gates Foundation's investment underscores the project's potential impact on global agricultural development.

A report by Arla Foods and Harper Adams University highlights the UK agriculture sector's critical labour shortages, warning of impacts on food security and affordability if not addressed. Despite 38% of young people considering agricultural careers, only 4% work in the sector, hindered by a lack of information and misconceptions about farming. The report recommends a national careers campaign, strengthened agricultural education, and clearer career pathways to attract and retain talent. With coordinated government, education, and industry action, the sector can secure a skilled workforce to meet future food security and climate goals.