USDA launches national proving grounds network to accelerate agtech adoption

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced the creation of the National Proving Grounds Network for AgTech (NPG-Ag), a nationwide initiative designed to evaluate agricultural technologies under real-world farming and ranching conditions. The program, unveiled by Research, Education, and Economics Under Secretary Scott Hutchins, seeks to provide farmers with reliable performance data on both existing and emerging tools, including digital and AI-driven solutions.

The initiative will be led by the Agricultural Research Service (ARS), in collaboration with other USDA agencies, land-grant universities, and Grand Farm, which will serve as the national program manager. The network is intended to reduce uncertainty around technology investments by offering data-driven insights into economic returns, input cost reductions, and operational efficiencies. USDA officials said the effort is aimed at accelerating the adoption of innovation while strengthening the long-term competitiveness and resilience of U.S. agriculture.