Field trials and IP: what agtech businesses should agree before testing on farm

Field trials are a key part of agtech development.

They help prove whether a product works in real conditions. But they can also create intellectual property issues if the details are not agreed upfront.

What can go wrong?

During a field trial, an agtech business may share:

• prototypes

• software

• farm data

• technical specifications

• testing methods

• performance results

• confidential know-how

At the same time, the farmer or trial partner may contribute valuable feedback, improvements or practical modifications.

If there is no written agreement, it may be unclear who owns what.

What should a field trial agreement cover?

Before testing begins, the parties should agree on:

• who owns the original technology

• who owns improvements made during the trial

• who owns and can use the data collected

• whether trial results can be published or used in marketing

• confidentiality obligations

• access to photos, videos and testimonials

• liability if something goes wrong

• what happens after the trial ends

Why this matters

Field trials are often used to secure customers, investors, grant funding or commercial partners.

That means the results can be valuable.

If ownership and confidentiality are unclear, the business may lose control of key information or weaken its ability to protect the technology.

The key takeaway

A field trial should prove the technology, not create uncertainty around it.

Before testing on farm, make sure the IP, data and confidentiality arrangements are clear.

Regional IP helps agtech businesses and regional innovators protect their technology before, during and after field trials.