Start-up 3D2cut appoints a new CEO and announce a seed round
Martigny-based start-up 3D2cut, which specialises in the development of advanced artificial intelligence (AI) solutions for the agricultural sector, has announced the appointment of Michael De Vivo as its new CEO. This appointment comes at a key time for the company, which is preparing to launch its first round of funding to industrialise its technology, for optimising vine pruning using AI.
Before joining the company, Michael De Vivo, 40, co-founded and managed the internationally-renowned scale-up depsys. His experience and leadership, which led the young company to a successful acquisition by a major international group in 2022, are invaluable assets for 3D2cut. The company is looking to the future with ambition, positioning itself as a transformational player in the AgTech sector.
«Joining 3D2cut and working alongside outstanding engineers and pioneers in the field of plant-friendly pruning is an exceptional opportunity,» explains Michael De Vivo. The technology developed by 3D2cut has a brilliant future, not only in viticulture but also for other crops such as fruit trees.»
Strategic fundraisig
After more than two years of development, one million Swiss francs invested and the filing of patents on three continents, the Founders have decided to accelerate the company's commercial development. A Seed Round is planned to support this ambition and the company can rely on the expertise of their co-founders Simonit & Sirch and their international network.
Marco Simonit, founder of the Simonit & Sirch group, praises Michael De Vivo and his core skills : «His experience in managing successful technology start-ups is essential. I am convinced that 3D2cut's revolutionary technology will have a significant impact in improving pruning».
Philibert Frick, co-founder and chairman of 3D2cut, is optimistic about the start-up's future: «It's very encouraging to see our project progressing and generating big interest beyond Switzerland's borders. We're confident in the innovations to come and in our ability to meet a crucial and hitherto unmet need».
About 3D2cut
3D2cut aims to revolutionise the world of plant pruning using cutting-edge AI-based technologies. The solution developed aims to improve the quality and efficiency of pruning, thereby reducing plant mortality and extending plant life, while generating significant financial benefits for its customers. Promoting healthy pruning practices and contributing to a more sustainable and productive future is the mission of this young company. It benefits from the support of The Ark (Foundation for Innovation in Valais), as well as the technological expertise of the Idiap research institute.