Ag-tech company Cellar Insights closes oversubscribed seed round to scale AI-driven potato storage monitoring

Cellar Insights, a Calgary-based AgTech company helping potato growers prevent storage losses, has announced the close of an oversubscribed seed round. The financing was co-led by Tall Grass Ventures and Accelerate Fund IV, with participation from Carrot Ventures, University of Alberta Innovation Fund, UCeed, and other strategic investors.

AI + sensors for early rot detection; traction across North America

Cellar Insights combines specialized sensors with AI models to detect trace gases emitted by decomposing potatoes—well before visible signs of spoilage. This early-warning system enables growers to extend storage seasons, optimize movement timing, and preserve millions in crop value.

The platform has already analyzed over 1.5 million storage data sets and is monitoring more than 150 million pounds of potatoes across North America.

CEO perspective on scale-up

“This investment validates our vision and technology,” said Terry Sydoryk, CEO of Cellar Insights. “With the backing of these top-tier AgTech investors, we’re ready to scale faster, expand into new markets, and give growers unprecedented clarity and control over storage.”

The new funding will accelerate AI model development, enhance predictive capabilities, and support expansion into Canada and the U.S., including a new team presence in Manitoba backed by Manitoba First Fund.

Investor view: solving an underserved post-harvest problem

“Post-harvest technology has been underserved, creating a significant market opportunity,” said Yasmine Al-Hussein, Investment Associate, Accelerate Fund.

“This is a complex problem with an innovative solution, and we’re seeing strong traction with both growers and processors adopting Cellar Insights’ technology.”

Investor view: team and execution advantage

“Ross’s farming expertise paired with Terry’s scaling experience makes this a team uniquely positioned to transform potato storage,” said Chris Edwards, Managing Partner at Tall Grass Ventures.

“We’re excited to support their growth across key potato regions.”

Market context: tackling waste in a $38B sector

The global potato processing market reached $38 billion in 2023, yet up to 25% of crops are lost post-harvest. By detecting rot before it starts, Cellar Insights provides growers and processors with a proven way to cut waste, protect supply, and improve ROI.