Kilkenny-based Autocoupler has been announced as the winner of the 2025 AgTechUCD One to Watch Award following the fourth cycle of the AgTechUCD Agccelerator Programme at UCD Lyons Farm.
The company's patented Autocoupler system allows a loader to attach to any agricultural implement, automatically coupling the loader’s hydraulic circuit to the implement, and then locking the implement in place with the loader’s locking system.
The system makes changing implements quick and easy in comparison to existing manual and time-consuming systems.
The operator also doesn't have to leave the cab of the machine when attaching or disconnecting any implement, which gives the systems a safety advantage.
“It is a great honour for me to accept the 2025 AgTechUCD One to Watch Award following the completion of the latest AgTechUCD Agccelerator Programme," said Seamus Kenny, founder of Autocoupler.
"Our next step is to target the agricultural and construction implement manufacture market with our novel system which allows loader operators to change an implement without leaving their seat, in 4 seconds, at the touch of a button.”
Kenny thanked AgTechUCD and Enterprise Ireland as well as Noreside Engineering Group, which assisted in the physical engineering and prototype phase. Autocoupler also received financial support form the Kilkenny Local Enterprise Office.
The 12-week Agccelerator programme is tailored to address the needs and challenges facing agri-tech and agri-fod start-up, with a focus on fast tracking the business development and leadership skills of participants.
The programme included dedicated business development workshops and investor readiness training, mentoring from industry experts and business advisors, guest speakers and facilitated introductions to AgTechUCD’s venture capital and business angel networks.
A total of 34 start-ups have now completed the four AgTechUCD Agccelerator Programme delivered to date, including Cotter AgriTech, Moonsyst, MyGug, OptaHaul, Pitseal, Proveye, Silicate, and TrojanTrack.
"I would like to congratulate Autocoupler, on being named the overall winner of our fourth AgTechUCD Agccelerator Programme," said Gary Ryan, director of AgTechUCD.
"This programme supports the commercial development of the participating start-ups by helping them to further develop their innovative solutions, enhance their marketplace visibility, attract new customers and investors and build new partnerships at home and further afield.
"I wish Autocoupler every success for the future as they continue their entrepreneurial journey.”
Autocoupler was named the winner after the final pitching event at UCD Lyons Farm in Co Kildare. The other start-ups were Aerial Ag Ireland, Evogen, IONA Minerals, Lurra Bio, RoboCrop and Weighless Wonders.
The members of the judging panel were: James Maloney, Enterprise Ireland; Faye Walsh Drouillard, WakeUp Capital; and David Bowles, The Yield Lab.
Photo: (l-r) David Bowles, The Yield Lab; Faye Walsh Drouillard, WakeUp Capital; Seamus Kenny, founder, Autocoupler; James Maloney, Enterprise Irelandl and Gary Ryan, Director, AgTechUCD. (Pic: Gareth Chaney, Photocall Ireland)
