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Frontlines.io | Where B2B Founders Talk GTM.
Strategic Communications Advisory For Visionary Founders
Welcome to another episode of Category Visionaries, the show that explores the future of tech with innovative B2B founders. In today’s episode, we’re speaking with Gabe Sibley, CEO and Founder of Verdant Robotics, an autonomous agriculture company that has raised $48 million in funding.
Gabe and his co-founder spent the first six months of the business on the road, listening to growers and engaging in a two-way dialogue to understand their needs and imagine what was technically possible. This early customer discovery was crucial in identifying defensible and valuable opportunities.
Gabe emphasizes the importance of going into business with someone who knows the target market deeply and is respected within it. His co-founder Curtis, a farmer himself, was instrumental in connecting Gabe with the right people and ensuring the company was addressing real customer needs.
While Verdant Robotics initially planned to offer its technology as a service, they quickly pivoted to a product sales model when customers expressed a clear preference for buying the equipment outright. Being responsive to customer demands and willing to adapt your approach can accelerate your path to market.
Gabe stresses the value of working with investors and board members who are deeply aligned with your mission and can help you succeed through their connections and relationships. Rather than viewing these stakeholders as adversaries, recognize the alignment of interests and seek out people you genuinely enjoy working with.
Verdant Robotics is driven by the vision of enabling sustainable farming at scale, with benefits for farmers, consumers, and the environment. By focusing on the potential for 100x improvements in cost-effectiveness and efficiency, the company is positioned to have a transformative impact on one of the world's most important industries.