Emergent Connext and Microsoft to deliver IoT connectivity for agriculture and rural communities in California’s Central Valley
Emergent: America’s Rural IoT Network
Emergent Connext, Inc. has announced a collaboration with Microsoft to build out a rural Internet of Things (IoT) network that extends reliable connectivity across thousands of square miles of unconnected farmland in rural California. Emergent will work with Microsoft’s Airband program and their ISP partner Cal.net to provide access to reliable connectivity to drive Smart Farming and IoT adoption across the region’s farming communities.
“Together with Emergent, we’re expanding broadband access and helping equip growers in California’s Central Valley with the tools they need to thrive in a connected, data-driven world,” said Vickie Robinson, the general manager for energy, connectivity and sustainability at Microsoft.
“Connectivity is a powerful enabler of sustainability—whether it’s empowering farmers with precision agriculture solutions, supporting climate resilience in rural communities, or accelerating the digital transformation of energy systems. At Microsoft, we’re committed to advancing inclusive access to technology that drives environmental and economic progress.”
The first education and activation programs will launch in summer 2025 in California’s Central Valley. These interactive programs will teach farmers to incorporate Smart Farming and IoT solutions quickly and effectively.
Delivering real-world benefits to farmers
By deploying a robust, affordable IoT network, Emergent will enable precision agriculture solutions that empower growers to:
- Optimise irrigation schedules and reduce water usage through real-time soil and weather sensors
- Lower input costs by applying fertilisers, pesticides and nutrients with pinpoint accuracy
- Monitor crop conditions and field performance remotely, improving yields and reducing labour strain
- Track animal health and location with IoT-connected smart ear tags and collars
- Reduce operation costs by monitoring liquid and storage tanks
“Thanks to our work with Microsoft, we’re accelerating the IoT network buildout, and more importantly, we are creating a digital foundation for smarter, more sustainable farming,” said Mike Roudi, the CEO of Emergent Connext. “When farmers can measure what matters with real-time data, they can control costs, conserve resources, and get better results. With Microsoft’s support, we’re helping deliver that value directly to the field.”
Comment on this article below or via X: @IoTGN and visit our website IoT Global Network