Beyond the pilot: How Tenfold NetZero has supported innovation at Dale Farm

At Digital Catapult, we accelerate the practical application of deep tech to equip the UK to be future ready. By bringing together industry, technology providers and innovative startups, we help translate challenges into tangible digital solutions that drive real-world impact.

Funded by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) as part of the implementation of its Innovation Strategy, and delivered by Digital Catapult, Tenfold NetZero supported three industry partners within DAERA’s remit in Northern Ireland to tackle industrial decarbonisation challenges using advanced technologies. By connecting innovative deep tech SMEs with large industrial partners, Digital Catapult supported developing, testing and validating solutions that could help accelerate decarbonisation.

Dale Farm joined the Tenfold NetZero Accelerator Pilot Programme in 2023, seeking a better way to track on-farm animal feed consumption, to provide accurate data for carbon reporting as well as smarter, more sustainable operations. The cooperative knew the data required, but not how to build a digital solution. Tenfold NetZero provided the missing link: expert guidance, a route to connect with the right deep tech partners and a structured development programme.

Lagan Networks, a Northern Ireland-based specialist in sensor-based data capture and wireless communications, were selected to partner with Dale Farm to provide the technology solution. Together, they developed a tailored solution designed for the unique demands of livestock farms. The working proof-of-concept solution was rolled out as a pilot on a number of farms. Remote sensors were installed on feed bins, transmitted live data on feed consumption and stock levels and automatically alerted farmers and Dale Farm when supplies were low. This improved efficiency, streamlined the delivery, reduced the risk of feed outages, and provided a clearer insight into feed operations.

Working directly with Lagan Networks on-site during the pilot phase helped Dale Farm compare multiple solution routes. After testing and evaluation, the team were confident to adopt the recommended approach. The pilot was a success—and the system remains live today as Dale Farm evaluates wider commercial deployment.

The pilot also ignited a shift in how data is captured. “Historically, the agri-division of the business was very reliant on manual data entry,” noted Andrew. “But the experience of automated data capture has led to a greater focus on technology solutions to streamline data capture.”

There is now further appetite to engage with early-stage companies to explore solutions outside traditional supplier routes and pursue a more collaborative approach to problem-solving.