OPEN INNOVATION CALL · TRADITION MEETS STARTUP

Do you have an innovative solution for animal welfare in turkey farming?

We are looking for startups that want to test their innovations on a farm and put them into practice through the DLG network.

Current challenge: digital solutions to prevent pecking damage in turkey farming

Prize money: 9,000 euros

 

THE PROGRAM: TRADITION MEETS START-UP

The DLG brings together agricultural businesses and start-ups. The goal is to leverage the DLG network (30,000 members) to put innovations into practice and provide start-ups with practical feedback that truly helps them move forward.

(Image: © Spindler, DLG Expert Knowledge 477)

YOUR ADDED VALUE AS A STARTUP

Networking & Visibility

With 30,000 members, we have a large network of farms and interested individuals.

Field Test & Feedback

Real-world operations, real data, and direct feedback from the field.

Introduction to EuroTier

The winners will be presented at EuroTier and will receive 9,000 euros in prize money.

THE CHALLENGE

Pecking injuries in turkey farming result in animal losses, stress within the flock, and tie up staff due to mandatory daily inspections (required by law: at least once a day; industry standard: twice a day). Autonomous or digital solutions have been almost entirely absent to date.

Wanted: A system or robotic solution that autonomously navigates the barn, distracts and engages the animals, and detects behavioral abnormalities at an early stage.

REQUIREMENTS

Request

Priority

Movement on litter & during animal contactBasic
Durability: Pecking, dust, moistureBasic
Hygienic cleaningBasic
Suitable for a rearing cycle (18–22 weeks)Basic
All ages: Chicks to adult roostersBasic
Sensors/cameras for behavior monitoring Supplement
Integration with barn management and climate control systems Supplement
Active intervention capability Supplement

Basic requirement = essential prerequisite.   Supplement = desirable, but not required from day one.

APPLICATION PROCESS

01 

Apply by June 15, 2026
Six-week application period

02 

Will you move on to the next round? You will receive this decision
at the end of June 2026. 
The DLG expert panel will make the selection.

03 

Demonstration Day and
Pitch at EuroTier 2026
Presentation to a farmer and a panel

04 

Field Test: Operational Test and 
DLG Publication

YOUR APPLICATION