Manchester agritech Sporesense secures £299k for AI crop disease detection

Early detection of airborne disease spores in crops is the focus of Manchester-based Sporesense Limited, which has secured an estimated £299.3k in new funding. This investment places the post-money valuation of the business at approximately £1.5m.

The company utilizes AI biosensors and proprietary artificial leaves to provide real-time data before visible symptoms emerge. This system provides farmers with alerts to optimize the timing of treatments, which can reduce chemical application and protect overall crop yields.

Incorporated in May 2024, the startup focuses on the development of specialized hardware for agricultural monitoring. The recent funding was finalized with an allotment of shares in September 2026, with formal documentation filed during the same month.

Board changes accompanied the raise. Christopher Francis Blanford and Niaz Rayan were both appointed as directors in September 2026.