J Robotics has been selected as a finalist in the inaugural Propel-AIR program, Australia's first dedicated AI and Robotics Sprint, with their chemical-free vineyard treatment platform.
The Ocean Grove-based agricultural technology company has developed a smart platform that uses targeted UVC light to treat grapevines for powdery mildew without chemicals.
The breakthrough helps vineyards eliminate chemical dependency while moving toward valuable organic certification.
Operating at night for maximum safety and biological effectiveness, the system addresses powdery mildew, which causes significant crop losses across Victoria's wine regions.
"We're giving growers a path to chemical-free production that actually works in Australian conditions," said John Burtt, CEO of J Robotics.
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Traditional chemical treatments create ongoing dependency cycles and prevent organic certification.
J Robotics' UVC solution breaks this pattern by using advanced light technology that destroys mildew spores while strengthening plant cell walls.
The platform integrates precision light delivery with AI-powered yield forecasting.
Future iterations will include beneficial insect release and other precision agriculture tools, creating a comprehensive sustainable farming system.
Studies show controlled UVC exposure prevents mildew through dual action.
The technology reinforces natural plant defences while eliminating fungal threats at the DNA level.
J Robotics has secured partnerships with established Australian wine producers for 2025 pilot testing.
The trials will validate treatment efficacy, measure chemical reduction, and quantify cost savings across Australian vineyard conditions.
Founded in early 2025, the company is developing multiple commercial pathways including equipment sales, Robotics-as-a-Service, and data monetisation from AI forecasting capabilities.
"This technology scales across high-value crops globally," Burtt said.
"We're starting with wine grapes because the organic premium makes the business case compelling."
The platform adapts as light technologies advance, positioning for expansion into other agricultural sectors requiring chemical alternatives.
The technology also addresses growing regulatory pressure on agricultural chemical use.
Recent studies link vineyard chemical runoff to environmental concerns, while consumer demand drives organic wine market growth.
J Robotics' approach delivers immediate environmental benefits while capturing premium pricing for certified organic production.
Through ARM Hub's Propel-AIR program, delivered in partnership with the Australian Government's AI Adopt Centre, J Robotics will compete against five other Australian finalists.
The winner receives a four-week residency at MassRobotics in Boston, providing exposure to global leaders including Boston Dynamics and iRobot, plus access to MIT and Harvard.
The program concluded with a virtual pitch event on July 31, with the winner announced on August 4.
