TRIC Robotics Uses UV Light to Revolutionize Agriculture

UV Robots Tackle Pesticide Overuse in Strawberries

TRIC Robotics UV light agriculture solution is reshaping pest control in one of America’s most pesticide-reliant crops: strawberries. The California-based startup has engineered tractor-sized autonomous robots that use UV-C light to reduce bacteria and pest populations without chemical sprays. Designed for overnight use, these machines treat up to 100 acres, minimizing disruption to farm operations while also employing vacuums to remove bug residue without damaging crops.

The technology directly targets a long-standing issue—strawberries consistently top the Environmental Working Group’s “Dirty Dozen” list for pesticide contamination. With TRIC Robotics’ system, farmers can now access a cleaner, more sustainable method of protecting their crops.

A Service Model Built for Farmer Adoption

Instead of selling the robots, TRIC Robotics operates on a service-based model. This decision came after extensive consultation with farmers. CEO Adam Stager noted that most growers already outsource pest control, making the transition to UV-based treatment seamless. The company essentially replaces conventional spray services with robotic deployments, providing a solution that aligns with existing operational workflows.

This model, while harder to scale, has proven effective in gaining early traction. According to Stager, adapting to what farmers actually need—not just what’s technologically possible—was key to the company’s early momentum.

From SWAT Robots to Sustainable Farming

TRIC Robotics’ journey into agriculture wasn’t direct. Founded in 2017 by Stager, the company initially focused on 3D printed robots for SWAT teams. In 2020, following a shift in purpose, Stager sought more meaningful impact and pivoted to agriculture. A critical partnership with the USDA introduced the UV light technology, leading to the company’s first agricultural tests in 2021.

With co-founders Vishnu Somasundaram and Ryan Berard, the team began a grassroots rollout—literally—by loading garage-built robots onto an SUV and deploying them on small test plots provided by USDA-connected farmers. Over eight months, they gathered performance data that validated the concept.

Scaling Up with Strategic Funding

TRIC Robotics recently secured a $5.5 million seed round led by Version One Ventures, with backing from Garage Capital, Todd and Rahul Capital, Lucas Venture Group, and other angels. The funding is being used to expand the robot fleet—currently at nine units, with three more in production—and extend coverage across more farms.

Today, the company works with four major strawberry producers. Future plans include adapting the system for additional crops, broadening the impact of TRIC Robotics UV light agriculture model across the food supply chain.

Agricultural Innovation with Long-Term Vision

Stager believes that agricultural tech is entering a phase of rapid transformation, driven by sustainability and productivity needs. While TRIC Robotics started with a narrow focus, its scalable, chemical-free model offers the potential for wide adoption across diverse farming systems.

The path from robotics lab to farmland was neither short nor simple. Yet the result—a functional, field-tested, and environmentally conscious tool—could influence how food is grown for generations to come.

How do you see robotics transforming the future of agriculture—beyond strawberries?

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