The Digital Transformation Frontier: How AI and Open Data are Reshaping Industries

March 20, 2025, 5:59 pm
Olam
Olam
AfricaTechAgriTechB2CCoffeeCooperativeFinTechFoodTechIndustryLivingMaterials
Location: Singapore
Employees: 11-50
Founded date: 1989
Total raised: $815.64M
In the fast-paced world of technology and agriculture, two companies are making waves. AdAstra and Mindsprint are at the forefront of digital transformation. They are harnessing the power of open data and artificial intelligence (AI) to tackle some of the most pressing challenges of our time.

AdAstra has launched Orbae, an open-data platform designed to enhance understanding of agricultural impacts. This initiative addresses a critical issue: land conversion. Deforestation and land use change are significant contributors to global greenhouse gas emissions. Agriculture is responsible for over 75% of these emissions. The urgency to halt deforestation by 2030 is palpable. Yet, agrifood companies struggle to pinpoint where their interventions can be most effective.

Orbae aims to bridge this gap. It provides free access to land use change emission factors for 11 major agricultural commodities, including palm oil, soy, and corn. The platform spans over 30 countries, offering heatmaps that visualize carbon intensity. This transparency allows stakeholders to identify where land conversion is occurring within their supply chains.

AdAstra’s co-founder, Xavier Bengoa, emphasizes the importance of a common language. With Orbae, companies can shift the conversation from identifying problems to implementing solutions. This is a game-changer in the agrifood sector. The platform uses advanced algorithms to process billions of satellite data points. It calculates the environmental costs of land conversion with remarkable precision.

The methodology behind Orbae is rooted in a jurisdictional direct land use change approach. This means it reflects the reality of agriculture on the ground. It aggregates data to match known traceability levels, adhering to international standards like the Greenhouse Gas Protocol. Traditional carbon accounting methods often rely on coarse statistical assessments. Orbae disrupts this norm by injecting high-quality earth observation data into the equation.

The adoption of Orbae by major agrifood companies, such as Louis Dreyfus Company and Olam Food Ingredients, signals a shift in the industry. With open data, information becomes accessible to corporations, NGOs, researchers, and governments. This collaborative approach fosters a shared understanding of agricultural impacts.

On the other side of the digital transformation spectrum, Mindsprint is redefining how businesses operate. Recently, the company appointed Suresh Sundararajan as its CEO. His vision is clear: an "AI First" approach. Suresh believes that AI will lead transformation journeys across industries. Under his leadership, Mindsprint aims to deliver next-gen AI solutions that enhance operational efficiencies.

Suresh’s background is impressive. He has over two decades of experience in technology and sustainability. His previous roles include Chief Digital and Information Officer at Olam. He has a knack for spearheading large-scale digitalization initiatives. Now, at Mindsprint, he will focus on expanding AI-driven offerings. This includes predictive analytics and cognitive automation.

Mindsprint’s strategy also emphasizes strengthening strategic partnerships. Collaborating with technology pioneers and academic institutions will be key. This approach will foster innovation and co-create solutions that meet the evolving needs of businesses.

Moreover, Suresh is committed to building a future-ready workforce. Continuous learning and AI upskilling will keep Mindsprint’s talent at the cutting edge of technology. This investment in human capital is crucial in a rapidly changing digital landscape.

Mindsprint recently opened a new office in Australia, enhancing its ability to serve regional clients. This expansion aligns with its mission to drive business transformation through advanced technology solutions. The company offers a suite of services, including data analytics, AI, and supply chain optimization.

Both AdAstra and Mindsprint exemplify the power of innovation in addressing global challenges. They are not just reacting to change; they are driving it. By leveraging open data and AI, these companies are paving the way for a more sustainable future.

The intersection of agriculture and technology is a fertile ground for growth. As stakeholders embrace these tools, the potential for positive impact expands. The journey toward sustainability is complex, but with platforms like Orbae and leadership like Suresh’s, the path becomes clearer.

In conclusion, the digital transformation frontier is alive with possibilities. AdAstra and Mindsprint are leading the charge, proving that technology can be a powerful ally in the fight against climate change and inefficiency. The future is bright for those willing to innovate and collaborate. The seeds of change have been planted; it’s time to nurture them.